Bill by US Sen. John Boozman of Arkansas would require deeper look at care for women veterans

A bill recently introduced by Republican Sen. John Boozman of Arkansas and Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth of Illinois would require more detailed reporting of the services provided to women veterans.

The two lawmakers last week introduced the proposed Veterans’ Outcomes, Inclusion, Care and Experience for Women Veterans Act. The legislation, also known as the VOICE for Women Veterans Act, would modernize an annual report provided by the federal Department of Veterans Affairs.

The legislation is aimed at helping policymakers identify areas where care for women veterans can be improved, the lawmakers said in a news release.

“As we look to improve the quality of care for women veterans in Arkansas and across the country, we must ensure the VA gathers the data and information necessary to identify gaps, address challenges and improve health outcomes,” Boozman said. “This bipartisan legislation will help strengthen accountability and ensure women veterans receive the care and support they are owed.” 

Duckworth, a retired U.S. Army National Guard and former Department of Veterans Affairs assistant secretary, said the legislation would require the agency to “take a deep look at how well female veterans are actually being served and how we can improve health outcomes.”

“As the primary health care home for veterans, this comprehensive review at the VA is long overdue to better care for the fastest growing veteran group in the country,” Duckworth said. 

The bill is supported by the Wounded Warrior Project, Disabled American Veterans and Paralyzed Veterans of America.

Women are the fastest growing group of veterans, according to the VA, with more than 2.1 million women veterans in the U.S. By 2040, they are projected to make up 18% of all veterans, the department said.