S.Amdt. 2984

This amendment, submitted by Ms. Cortez Masto for bill H.R. 3944, aims to add oversight and accountability to the Veterans Community Care Program.

It seeks to change the bill by adding the following requirements:

• Conditions on Contract Expansion: Funds cannot be used to expand or renew contracts unless the Secretary of Veterans Affairs certifies that there is a comprehensive oversight framework, clearly defined roles and responsibilities for oversight, and performance metrics used to assess veteran satisfaction, quality of care, and timeliness.

• Limiting Redundant Use of Community Care: The Secretary must ensure that referrals to community care are only made when Department of Veterans Affairs facilities cannot provide care within clinical access standards, and preference must be given to Department care if capacity exists.

• Reporting Requirement: Within 120 days of the Act's enactment, the Secretary must submit a report to the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations regarding steps taken to improve internal service capacity, prevent inappropriate overuse of community care, and ensure effective oversight.