Congressman Nick Begich Co-Sponsors Bill to Expand Healthcare Options for Alaska’s Veterans

March 31, 2025
Press Release

WASHINGTON, D.C. – March 31, 2025 – Congressman Nick Begich (R-AK) announced his strong support for H.R. 740, the Veterans ACCESS Act of 2025, joining House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Mike Bost (R-IL) as a co-sponsor. This legislation strengthens the Veterans Community Care Program (VCCP), ensuring that veterans receive timely access to healthcare and preventing the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from restricting referrals to non-VA providers.

“Our heroes deserve the best possible care, without excessive wait times or bureaucratic barriers,” said Congressman Begich. “I’m proud to co-sponsor the Veterans ACCESS Act because Alaska’s veterans should never be forced to wait in line for care that is available in their own communities. This bill puts veterans first, strengthens private healthcare options and ensures that no veteran is forced to wait or travel extreme distances for care they should be able to receive closer to home.”

Alaska’s veterans, particularly those in rural areas, often face severe challenges in reaching VA facilities. The Veterans ACCESS Act of 2025 puts veterans back in control of their healthcare:

  • Codifying Access Standards – Ensures veterans can seek private healthcare if the VA cannot provide care within 20 days (primary/mental health) or 28 days (specialty care), or if travel exceeds 30-60 minutes.
  • Holding the VA Accountable – Prohibits the VA from misrepresenting appointment availability to deny veterans access to community care.
  • Strengthening Mental Health & Substance Abuse Treatment – Requires the VA to approve residential mental health and addiction treatment admissions within 48 hours, ensuring veterans in crisis receive immediate care.
  • Ensuring Transparency – Mandates that veterans receive written notice when community care is denied, including the reason for denial and clear appeal instructions.

H.R. 740 was introduced By Chairman Bost on January 28, 2025, and referred to the House Committee on Veteran’s Affairs.

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