[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 179 (Friday, November 8, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1409]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            VETERAN TRANSITIONAL HEALTH CARE IMPROVEMENT ACT

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                  HON. GREGORIO KILILI CAMACHO SABLAN

                    of the northern mariana islands

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, November 8, 2019

  Mr. SABLAN. Madam Speaker, today, I introduce the Veteran 
Transitional Health Care Improvement Act, which would provide veterans 
one year of VA health care after they separate from active service in 
the Armed Forces or from active status with the National Guard or 
Reserve. By providing health coverage during this transition period, 
our nation can better assist veterans to succeed as they move into 
civilian life.
  The transition to civilian life presents a number of challenges for 
veterans and their families. Figuring out their next steps in 
education, employment, housing, and health care is difficult. Our 
legislation, removes the burden of health care, at least during that 
critical first year of re-entry.
  Knowing they have this coverage, including the mental health care 
that can be so important during transition, will free veterans to focus 
on re-establishing their family relationships and finding a new career.
  Our bill requires the VA, the Pentagon, and the Department of Labor 
all to make sure that veterans are well informed about their 
eligibility for this transitional health care coverage.
  The Veteran Transitional Health Care Improvement Act will help the 
over one million men and women serving our country in the active and 
reserve components including those from my district, the Northern 
Mariana Islands.
  The Act has the endorsement of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American 
Legion and Reserve Officers Association.
  The gentlelady from American Samoa, Mrs. Radewagen, is an original 
cosponsor of the bill.
  I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan legislation.

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