Polk Times

Congressman Scott Franklin (FL-18) introduced the Ensuring Continuity in Veterans Health Act today to safeguard veterans who prefer the Veteran Community Care Program (VCCP) over services within the VA. The bill aims to prevent disruptions for veterans currently receiving care from private providers amidst proposals to reduce VCCP and direct veterans back to VA facilities. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) has introduced a companion bill in the Senate.

“Providing excellent care at VA facilities and providing flexibility are not opposing missions,” said Congressman Franklin. “The VA should continue investing in new clinics and recruiting specialists while also protecting veterans’ access to care outside the VA. Vets have earned their benefits—including the right to decide the care that works best for them. My bill will ensure continuity of care for veterans currently receiving services outside the VA, preventing the VA from abruptly terminating their coverage. It will also provide clarity and certainty for veterans who rely on community care and are concerned they’ll lose their doctor. I thank Senator Rubio for leading this effort in the Senate, and I appreciate Chairman Bost’s support of this critical legislation.”

Senator Rubio stated, “Our veterans have sacrificed so much for this country and often have PTSD or other mental health issues as a result. Addressing mental health issues takes trust and time. The Ensuring Continuity in Veterans’ Health Act will ensure our veterans can continue receiving care from their long-term providers that they have established a trusted relationship with.”

Chairman Bost commented, “When House Republicans passed and President Trump signed into law the bipartisan MISSION Act, its intent was clear – that veterans would now have access to the healthcare that best serves them – whether that is inside or outside VA. But under the Biden-Harris administration, veterans’ community care access is under attack... This bill would rightfully reaffirm that veterans should keep their community doctors if they are happy with the care they are receiving, with no government bureaucratic headaches getting in the way, no matter who is in the White House."

Congressman Mast added, "The brave men and women who put on our nation’s uniform are willing to lay down their lives for this country and our flag... It’s only right for our government to do everything it can to get them the care they earned and deserve."

Congressman Armstrong emphasized rural healthcare needs: “In rural areas like North Dakota, access to care is vital... I am proud to co-sponsor this legislation.”

Rep. Webster highlighted past progress: “When the MISSION Act was signed into law under the Trump Administration, it gave veterans greater control over their health care... This legislation protects progress by ensuring continuity of healthcare.”

Rep. Rutherford stressed ongoing commitments: "It remains my mission in Congress to ensure [veterans] get the care and benefits they have earned."

Rep. Diaz-Balart voiced support: "I’m proud to support [this act], which allows our brave men and women who have selflessly served our country to continue accessing quality medical care."

The proposed legislation seeks amendments to Title 38 of U.S Code regarding "continuity of care" considerations under VCCP:

1. Allow continued access to current community services.

2. Prevent disruptions in specialized treatments such as mental health.

3. Provide convenient provider options.

Original cosponsors include Representatives Daniel Webster (R-FL), Brian Mast (R-FL), Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Kelly Armstrong (R-ND), Mike Bost (R-IN), John Rutherford (R-FL), Lance Gooden (R-TX), Zach Nunn (R-IA), and Diaz-Balart (R-FL).