Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Aumua Amata voted for legislative efforts that continue the process of reforming the U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs, as the Veterans Affairs Committee passed a total of 16 bills.

 “Our country has a special commitment to our veterans,” said Amata. “Step by step, the Veterans Affairs Committee is working on these challenges, bringing reforms to the VA, and seeking better ways to give our veterans the services they deserve.”

Specifically, the Committee voted for bills co-sponsored by Congresswoman Amata, including the bipartisan MISSION Act, which would consolidate and streamline community care options for veterans; and the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act, which would extend the presumption of service-connected diseases linked to exposure to herbicides like Agent Orange to veterans who served in the territorial seas of Vietnam (Blue Water Navy veterans).

Other bills passed today include the VA Billing Accountability Act, the Veterans Treatment Court Improvement Act, and other specific bills to improve counseling, cost of living formula, and other services.

The Committee is continuing to press for the necessary upgrades and reforms at the VA, with a series of legislations dating back to last year, along with regular hearings, including topics such as better access in locations that are distant from major health providers.

“In American Samoa, too many veterans plan their lives around a travel schedule for their care,” continued Congresswoman Amata. “The VA has a big job, and needs both support and careful oversight by Congress to ensure that veterans receive thorough, respectful, prompt quality care.”