In a display of rare bipartisan cooperation, the U.S. House of Representatives has unanimously passed H.R. 1228, also known as the “Prioritizing Veterans’ Survivors Act.” With a perfect vote of 424-0, the legislation seeks to restore the Office of Survivors Assistance (OSA) to its former status, placing it directly under the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. This move, sponsored by Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-Ariz.), reverses a 2021 decision that effectively sidelined advocacy efforts for the families of deceased military personnel. By clarifying the organization of the OSA under Title 38 of the United States Code, the measure ensures that the office serves once again as the principal advisor on policies affecting the loved ones of those lost in military service. The bill now proceeds to the U.S. Senate for further consideration. Meanwhile, VA Secretary Doug Collins, a former Georgia congressman and current Air Force Reserve chaplain, has expressed support for modernizing the department. Collins recently noted his alignment with Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to streamline federal operations. Despite these efficiency efforts, Collins emphasized that his primary focus remains on the well-being of veterans and employees, using “fresh eyes” to improve services. He categorically dismissed rumors regarding potential cuts to VA health care and benefits under the current administration, asserting that the department has actually fortified services by preserving 300,000 mission-critical positions and redirecting approximately $98 million toward direct care and services rather than reducing them.
To combat misinformation, Collins specifically refuted claims that the Veterans Crisis Line was facing layoffs, confirming that responders remain in place to support those in need. However, he did acknowledge upcoming workforce shifts, including an offer of deferred resignation or retirement for certain employees through the end of the fiscal year on September 30. This strategic reduction in force is intended to manage the agency’s budget while providing full pay and benefits to departing staff through the transition. Collins urged veterans to seek truth directly from the Department of Veterans Affairs rather than relying on political rhetoric or what he labeled the “Whopper line” of misinformation originating from Capitol Hill.
In a separate but notable legislative move, the House passed the “Detain and Deport Illegal Aliens Who Assault Cops Act.” Led by Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.), the bill passed with a 265-148 vote, receiving support from 54 Democrats. The legislation mandates the federal detention and deportation of any non-citizen in the country illegally who is accused of assaulting a law enforcement officer, establishing a new category of inadmissibility. Van Drew argued that such behavior demonstrates a fundamental lack of respect for the U.S. rule of law and institutions, justifying the immediate removal of these individuals from society.
