Otsego, MN - Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) voted in favor of several pieces of legislation this week to support America's veterans, including ensuring free access to National Parks and securing accountability from the Veterans Administration (VA) on their patient safety policies. 

"Our nation's veterans fought to keep us safe and free, and they sacrificed their health and safety to do so. They deserve our support and care now. These important votes will continue to show our veterans and service members that their fellow Americans appreciate their selfless efforts to protect our nation." said Emmer. 

Congressman Emmer supported and the House passed the Wounded Veterans Recreation Act, which allows veterans who have a service-connected disability to qualify for free entrance to National Parks. Free entrance includes a lifetime pass to all parks within the National Park Service.

Congressman Emmer also supported the Improving Safety and Security for Veterans Act, which requires the VA to report on its patient safety policies as well as their quality of care. The VA will also be required to report on the measures they have taken to increase these patient care policies. This will help provide accountability and transparency for veterans and their families while under the VA’s care.

The House of Representatives also passed the Department of Veterans Affairs Website Accessibility Act this week, which will study VA websites to ensure they are accessible to those with disabilities.

Congressman Emmer is the author of the Same-Day Accountability Veterans Enhancement (SAVE) Act to ensure the VA has accountability mechanisms in place to successfully offer same-day physical and mental health treatment to veterans in need. Read more about the SAVE Act here. 

Read more about Congressman Emmer's work for veterans here. 

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