Congressman Veasey Leads Letter Urging the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs to Reverse Rural Home Care Cuts

Washington D.C. - This week, Congressmembers Marc Veasey, Cuellar, Casar, Castro, Crockett, Escobar, Fletcher, Garcia and Gonzales sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs Secretary Collins, expressing deep concern for the CY26 Home Care Fee Schedule that will lead to devastating home care service cuts for Texas veterans.

"These policy changes mean one thing - cutting services for disabled veterans," said Congressman Veasey. "It is unconscionable that American veterans who depend on home care to preserve their independence, and quality of life will be forced to fend for themselves. Let's be clear - these heroes who have bravely served our nation earned these benefits. We must uphold our promise to stand by those who wore the uniform and put their lives on the line to defend our freedom. I strongly urge Secretary Collins to reverse course and stand by those who fought for us."

Over 15 percent of providers have already reduced services in rural communities, where approximately 170,000 Texas veterans live. In addition, a recent survey indicates that over 86 percent of home care providers reported the negative implications of these cuts, threatening long term sustainability.

Congressman Veasey along with the Texas Democrat Delegation are calling the Department of Veteran Affairs to immediately reevaluate the recent reductions and provide a detailed analysis of the method used to determine these cuts, as well as to engage directly with veterans, caregivers, providers, and rural healthcare stakeholders before implementing future policy changes.

A copy of the letter with all action items listed may be found here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gTQu09jeM9XrvwVJYSdjA4ie-CfUz2uD/view?usp=sharing