Bill > HR2576

This bill aims to expand and improve health care and benefits for veterans who have experienced military sexual trauma (MST). The bill defines military sexual trauma as a physical assault of a sexual nature, battery of a sexual nature, or sexual harassment that occurred during military service. Key provisions include expanding eligibility for counseling and treatment to all former reserve component members, establishing specialized teams to evaluate MST-related disability claims, and creating more sensitive communication protocols for veterans filing such claims. The bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to develop a comprehensive approach to processing MST claims, including providing more supportive and trauma-informed communication, ensuring veterans have access to mental health resources, and conducting annual reviews of claim accuracy. Additionally, the bill mandates a report on MST in the digital age, creates a workgroup to review medical examinations for MST-related claims, and ensures that individuals who withdraw from service academies receive information about potential care and support related to military sexual trauma. The overall goal is to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs' response to and support for veterans who have experienced sexual trauma during their military service.

Health and Social Services, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2576/all-info