Wichita Standard

U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Kyrsten Sinema have introduced the Veteran Caregiver Reeducation, Reemployment, and Retirement Act to provide support to former family caregivers of veterans as they transition back to work or into retirement. Sen. Moran emphasized the importance of supporting caregivers, stating, “This legislation answers a need I have heard about from veterans, caregivers and VA staff in Kansas and will make certain that support for former family caregivers does not abruptly end when the veteran the caregiver is caring for passes away, regains independence or transitions to a higher level of care.”

Sen. Sinema highlighted the challenges caregivers face, stating, “Caring for a loved one is a full-time job – one that often requires family members to put their entire lives on hold.” The bipartisan bill aims to expand and extend critical services to ensure caregivers remain supported even after their time as a caregiver ends.

The legislation includes provisions to ensure family caregivers enrolled in the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA) remain enrolled for up to 180 days following their dismissal from the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers. It also requires VA to reimburse family caregivers for professional licensure fees, provide retirement planning services, and offer bereavement counseling and support.

Lt. Gen. Brian T. Kelly, President and CEO of MOAA, expressed gratitude for the legislation, stating, “MOAA greatly appreciates Senators Moran and Sinema championing the Veteran Caregiver Reeducation, Reemployment, and Retirement Act as a tangible way to acknowledge the sacrifices of caregivers enrolled in VA’s Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers.”

Andrea Sawyer, Advocacy Director for the Quality of Life Foundation’s Wounded Veteran Family Care Program, thanked the senators for their support, noting that the bill will help caregivers secure their financial futures beyond their caregiving years.

Steve Schwab, CEO of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, commended the bill for recognizing the essential role caregivers play and for providing employment, financial, and retirement resources to support caregivers. Schwab stated, “We thank Senators Moran and Sinema for their unwavering commitment to these Hidden Heroes.”

The full text of the legislation can be found [here](insert link to legislation).