The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Home Improvements and Structural Alterations program (HISA) offers funds to help eligible disabled veterans with service-related medical issues make alterations to their homes including accessible bathrooms, widen their doors, install wheelchair ramps and grab bars and handrails.
The Autonomy for Disabled Veterans Act would increase funding from its current ceiling of $6,800 to $9,000.
“With rising costs of construction materials, it’s necessary to increase funds available for veterans to adapt their homes. This legislation will help enhance their quality of life and help them live more independently. I’m pleased to champion improvements to services and benefits for the men and women who served in our nation’s uniform,” Boozman said.
"Nevada veterans have sacrificed so much for our country, and we must ensure they can access the necessary resources to have more freedom in their homes,” said Cortez Masto. “This bipartisan legislation will help them afford the home improvements they need to enhance their accessibility and safety. I will continue working across the aisle to stand up for our veterans and their families.”
The Autonomy for Disabled Veterans Act is endorsed by Wounded Warrior Project, The Disabled American Veterans and Paralyzed Veterans of America.
“VA’s Home Improvements and Structural Alterations grant program provides medically necessary improvements and structural alterations to a veteran or service member’s primary residence. However, years of inattention have diminished the effectiveness of this program, and it is long past time to update grant rates to realistic levels. We appreciate the efforts of Senator Cortez Masto and Senator Boozman to correct that by increasing grant rates and tying them to a formula, so they remain current for years to come,” said Heather Ansley, Chief Policy Officer of Paralyzed Veterans of America.
Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congressmen Don Bacon (R-NE) and Chris Pappas (D-NH)