Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy and Mazie Hirono have introduced the VetPAC Act, a bill aimed at improving health care services for American veterans. The legislation proposes the establishment of a Veterans Health Administration Policy Advisory Commission (VetPAC) to enhance transparency and provide expert reviews of the Veterans Health Administration’s operations.

"American veterans deserve the best health care our nation can offer," stated Dr. Cassidy. "The VHA must be held to the highest standard, and regular reports will allow Congress to hold them to this."

Senator Hirono added, "Veterans have made unimaginable sacrifices in service to our country and it is crucial that we continue working to ensure our veterans can access the high-quality health care they deserve. I’m proud to reintroduce the VetPAC Act to create a new, independent commission to address challenges within the VHA and improve health care access, delivery, and quality for our veterans."

The proposed VetPAC is modeled after successful commissions such as MACPAC and MedPAC.

As a member of the U.S. Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Senator Cassidy has been actively involved in veteran affairs issues. Earlier this year, he reintroduced the Restore VA Accountability Act designed to expedite disciplinary processes for VA employees who fail in their duties toward veterans.

In December 2024, Senator Cassidy's Veteran Service Organization Equal Tax Treatment (VETT) Act was passed by the Senate. This bill aims to expand tax deductibility for contributions made to federally chartered tax-exempt organizations serving members of the Armed Forces.

Additionally, Cassidy's bipartisan Gold Star and Surviving Spouse Career Services Act was also unanimously passed by the Senate last year. This legislation seeks to improve job counseling services for spouses of Armed Forces members who died on active duty through programs at the U.S. Department of Labor.

Cassidy has also been vocal about federal resources supporting veterans' physical and mental health needs through various platforms including an op-ed in August 2024 following New Orleans hosting of the National Veteran Wheelchair Games.

In 2022, his Solid Start Act was unanimously passed by the Senate with an aim at strengthening outreach efforts connecting newly discharged veterans with VA benefits including mental health resources.