Bill > HR5203

This bill directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to update the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) directives for managing acute sexual assault cases within 18 months of enactment. The bill requires medical facilities to either employ a certified Sexual Assault Forensic Examination (SAFE) clinical provider or a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE), or refer veterans to a local healthcare provider with such expertise. The updated directives must include comprehensive protocols for treating "covered veterans" (those reporting sexual assault within 72 hours at a VA facility), including offering prophylactic treatments for sexually transmitted diseases and potential pregnancy, providing mental health counseling or referrals, and establishing clear guidelines for documenting and reporting incidents to local law enforcement while maintaining the veteran's confidentiality. The bill mandates annual training for VA Healthcare Administration employees and police officers, with training to be delivered both electronically and in-person, focusing on trauma-informed investigation techniques and facility-specific resources. Additionally, the directors of Veteran Integrated Service Networks will be responsible for monitoring compliance with these new directives and identifying any implementation challenges. The overall goal is to improve the VA's response to sexual assault and provide comprehensive, compassionate care for affected veterans.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5203/all-info