I came to Washington to solve problems and deliver results on issues that matter to Iowans. This week, I am excited to share that two of my bipartisan bills to improve care for our nation's veterans passed the House with overwhelming support.
The Sgt. Ketchum Rural Veterans Mental Health Act, sponsored by Congresswoman Cindy Axne and supported by the entire Iowa House Delegation, will ensure that veterans in rural areas have access to the care they need and deserve. The bill is named in honor of Sergeant Brandon Ketchum, of Davenport, Iowa. He sought care at an Iowa City VA hospital but was turned away. Shortly after, he tragically took his own life. Unfortunately, veterans who live in rural areas face increased challenges and barriers to accessing the treatment they need. Our bill will improve access to mental health services for veterans in rural areas and address the gaps in care.
This week, the House also passed the Improving VA Accountability to Prevent Sexual Harassment and Discrimination Act of 2021, legislation I led with Senator Joni Ernst to crack down on sexual harassment at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The care the VA provides for our veterans is critical, but VA employees cannot provide the care our veterans deserve if they are suffering in a hostile work environment.
Both of these bills are now on the way to the Senate for consideration. I will continue working in a bipartisan way to serve veterans in Iowa and deliver on issues that matter to our district!
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