Sen. Moran, Rep. Schmidt Secure Kansas Priority in Annual Defense Authorization Legislation

WASHINGTON, D.C. - (December 9, 2025) - U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) - chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs - and U.S. Representative Derek Schmidt (R-KS-02) - a member of the House Committee on Armed Services - applauded the inclusion of their amendment, which would strengthen access to medical care for veterans, in the conferenced text of the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

This provision will support Defense Health Agency (DHA) military medical treatment facilities (MTF), such as Irwin Army Community Hospital at Fort Riley, by requiring that DHA and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) create action plans to support greater utilization of military hospitals by veterans and servicemembers. These action plans will expand veteran access to MTF services while also enhancing resource sharing between DHA and VA. Sen. Moran helped secure passage of the amendment in the Senate in October. Based on a provision Rep. Schmidt secured during House Armed Services Committee consideration in July, the FY2026 NDAA also imposes additional requirements before an MTF is downgraded in the scope of services it provides.

"America's veterans have sacrificed much to serve our nation and protect our freedom," said Sen. Moran. "I'm pleased that the final text of the annual National Defense Authorization Act includes our provision to expand medical access for veterans and support the longevity of Irwin Army Community Hospital and other military treatment facilities across the country. I urge my colleagues to support the swift passage of this legislation to make certain that our troops have the resources needed to fulfill their mission during military service that our veterans have the access to care and the tools to succeed after service."

"The men and women who serve America in our armed forces deserve top-notch access to healthcare both while serving and when they later enter the veterans healthcare system," said Rep. Schmidt. "It has been a pleasure working with Senator Moran to expand options for veterans healthcare while also strengthening Irwin Army Community Hospital and other important healthcare facilities on military bases throughout our country."

The Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives passed separate legislation, but the final FY2026 NDAA was negotiated by leadership of the Senate and House Armed Services committees. It now heads to the full House and Senate for approval.