River Bend Times

Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks has introduced the Fisher House Availability Act, a legislative proposal aimed at reversing a rule from the Biden administration. This rule currently prevents military families from staying in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) lodging facilities when their family members receive non-VA care.

"Families shouldn’t be punished because their care comes from a military or civilian provider instead of the VA," said Miller-Meeks. "As a veteran and doctor, I’ve seen how critical it is to keep loved ones close during treatment. This bill restores common sense, cuts red tape, and puts our servicemembers and their families first."

Historically, servicemembers and their families could access VA-owned Fisher Houses on a space-available basis regardless of where care was provided. However, in 2024, the VA began denying access even though more than half of the rooms were unoccupied.

The proposed legislation seeks to ensure that servicemembers and their families can use VA lodging when there is available space, irrespective of whether they are receiving care at a VA facility, military hospital, or civilian provider. The Fisher House Foundation, which is responsible for building and donating these homes, supports this legislative change.

The bill has been sent to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs for consideration.