*For all press release inquiries, please reach out to Theresa Meyer (Theresa.Meyer@mail.house.gov)

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) introduced the Same-Day Accountability Veterans Enhancement (SAVE) Act to ensure the Veterans Administration has accountability mechanisms in place to successfully offer same-day physical and mental health treatment to veterans in need. This legislation will ensure the implementation and progress of this initiative are tracked and documented for oversight and accountability. 

"Our veterans deserve the best possible care this country can provide," Emmer said. '"Their sacrifice has earned them the respect and attention of their fellow Americans. I introduced this legislation to ensure they are receiving the timely care they need. Whether it be a debilitating physical ailment or the struggle of an invisible mental illness, they need to be treated immediately." 

"Accountability and oversight are vital and I will continue to ensure the Veterans Administration is holding to their promise to care for our veterans. I look forward to working with my colleagues to further serve our nation's heroes." Emmer concluded. 

Background: 

In 2014, Congress conducted hearings to address the high volume of complaints from veterans nationwide who were experiencing prolonged delays in care at Veterans Affairs medical centers. The Veterans Administration proposed an initiative to provide same-day services as a solution to this unacceptable pattern.

While this is a noble effort by the Veterans Administration, a 2019 U.S. Government Accountability Office report showed that the Veterans Health Administration lacked documented objectives and performance goals, leaving progress difficult to track. The lack of documentation has complicated implementation and oversight of this initiative.

The SAVE Act would apply these accountability measures and ensure the implementation of same-day delivery, with specific emphasis on veterans struggling with mental illness who are in need of immediate crisis care.

This legislation has received the support of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, the Disabled Veterans of America, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Read the text of the Same-Day Accountability Veterans Enhancement (SAVE) Act here

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