The House of Representatives unanimously passed H.R. 1228, the “Prioritizing Veterans’ Survivors Act,” with a 424-0 vote, marking a rare moment of bipartisan unity.
The bill restores the Office of Survivors Assistance (OSA) to its original position under the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, reversing a 2021 decision that weakened its role. The goal is to ensure military survivors are represented in policy-making and supported through targeted services.
Sponsored by Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-Ariz.), the legislation reaffirms the OSA’s role as the VA’s primary advisor on survivors’ issues. VA Secretary Doug Collins praised the move, highlighting ongoing efforts to modernize operations while safeguarding veterans’ care. Collins also addressed concerns about service cuts, assuring that no reductions have been made to crisis services.
The bill now heads to the Senate, where advocates hope for continued bipartisan support. Its passage would solidify a renewed national commitment to veterans’ families and strengthen advocacy for their long-term wellbeing.
