Tucson Standard

U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani from Arizona's 6th district and House Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Mike Bost of Illinois' 12th district have reintroduced a bill aimed at ensuring that the families of deceased veterans receive their entitled benefits. The legislation, known as the Prioritizing Veterans’ Survivors Act (H.R. 1228), seeks to address issues faced by surviving family members in accessing benefits after their loved ones have passed away.

Ciscomani emphasized the importance of supporting the families who endure sacrifices during their relatives' military service. "Behind every man and woman in uniform are spouses, children, and families who face their own set of sacrifices during their loved one’s time in service," he stated. He added that if a service member dies while serving, it is crucial for surviving family members to have prioritized access to benefits.

In 2021, changes were made within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) when the Office of Survivors Assistance (OSA) was moved from under the Office of the VA Secretary to the Veterans Benefit Administration (VBA). This move reportedly created bureaucratic barriers that hindered OSA's ability to directly communicate with the VA Secretary on policy matters affecting survivors.

The proposed legislation aims to reverse this change by reinstating OSA under the Office of the VA Secretary. This would restore direct communication lines between OSA and top officials, ensuring that survivors' needs are addressed promptly.

Chairman Bost expressed his support for Ciscomani's efforts, criticizing the Biden-Harris administration's decision to relocate OSA. "The loved ones of those who made the ultimate sacrifice deserve a seat at the table – period," Bost said. He noted that moving OSA had limited its effectiveness as an advisor on policies impacting veterans' survivors.

The bill previously passed in the House with bipartisan backing during the 118th Congress.