Central South Dakota News

U.S. Senators Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and Angus King (I-Maine) have introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at expediting combat veterans' access to health care benefits. The Combat Veterans Pre-Enrollment Act, co-sponsored by Senators Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), would allow transitioning service members to enroll in the Veterans Health Administration's health care services on their first day as civilians, eliminating the current waiting period.

Currently, transitioning service members must wait until they have left the military and received their official separation paperwork before they can apply for health care and other services provided by the Veterans Health Administration. This process can take months, leaving veterans without access to the health care benefits they have earned.

Senator Rounds emphasized the importance of providing timely access to health care services for those who have served in the military, stating, "The Combat Veterans Pre-Enrollment Act would eliminate the lapse in care that many service members face when transitioning from the military to civilian life." He added, "We have a responsibility to fulfill our commitment to them once their service is complete."

Senator King echoed this sentiment, highlighting the need to support and care for combat veterans who have retired from active duty. He stated, "By eliminating this bureaucratic lag, we can deliver VA benefits to our men and women who served, the moment they return to civilian status."

The legislation has garnered support from various veteran organizations, who recognize the importance of ensuring a smooth transition for service members. Marty Pennock, the Disabled American Veterans Department of South Dakota Adjutant, praised the bill, stating, "This legislation clearly is founded by those that understand the needs of our military and the importance of getting to the resources and linking our Service Members to VA as early as possible."

Rick Williamson, the Department of South Dakota Veterans of Foreign Wars Legislative Chairman, emphasized the significance of providing healthcare and benefits to transitioning service members, stating, "Making sure that they have healthcare, medications, and benefits is a great start to assuring them the stability they deserve as they enter the next chapter of their life."

The Combat Veterans Pre-Enrollment Act has also received support from the Veterans of Foreign Wars, with Pat Murray, the Legislative Director, expressing the organization's backing. Murray stated, "Transitioning service members face challenges post separation. Making sure these veterans enroll in the healthcare and benefits they have earned will help ease that transition."

This bipartisan legislation aims to prioritize the healthcare needs of combat veterans and ensure that they receive the benefits they deserve without delay. With support from various stakeholders, the bill seeks to streamline the process of accessing health care services for transitioning service members.