Friends,

This summer we passed the historic and bipartisan Honoring Our PACT Act. I was proud to support this crucial legislation to ensure that we meet the critical needs of our veteran community here in Virginia, and today I come to you with exciting news! The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced the expansion and extension of VA health care eligibility made possible because of the PACT Act.

On Oct. 1, the VA further extended eligibility for VA health care to veterans of the Vietnam War, Gulf Wars, and the post-9/11 era. Beginning on Oct. 1, Gulf War and post-9/11 veterans who did not previously enroll in VA health care have a 1-year window to enroll if they:

Served on active duty in a theater of combat operations during a period of war after the Persian Gulf War, or
Served in combat against a hostile force during a period of hostilities after Nov. 11, 1998, and
Were discharged or released from active service between Sept. 11, 2001, and Oct. 1, 2013. Some additional conditions apply.

Oct. 1 also marked the expansion of health care eligibility for veterans of the Vietnam War that served in specific locations and time periods including several surrounding nations and territories in the Pacific.

If you think you might be eligible in one of these categories, I encourage you to apply or find more information here.

This past week, we also broke ground on a new VA facility in Chesapeake that will serve 70% of Hampton Roads veterans, including those newly eligible through these categories. With one of the fastest-growing veteran populations in the nation, it’s critical we have the facilities to meet demand. In addition to expanding eligibility, I’m proud that the PACT Act will also create one additional facility in Virginia to get veterans quality care faster.

I have seen how toxic exposure overseas has impacted veterans in our country and in our community. It is imperative that all generations of veterans can access the health care they have earned through their service. I am proud that Virginia is home to a significant military presence, and I’ll remain a strong advocate for bipartisan solutions to address the health care needs of our veterans.

If you ever want to share your thoughts about an issue that’s important to you you can send me an email any time using the form on my Senate website. You can also follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. I look forward to hearing from you.