House Unites to Revive Key Veterans Office While VA Leadership Counters Rumors of Service Cuts

In a rare and powerful show of bipartisan unity, the U.S. House of Representatives voted unanimously this week to reinstate a vital office dedicated to supporting the families of America’s fallen service members.

With a sweeping 424-0 vote, lawmakers passed H.R. 1228, officially known as the Prioritizing Veterans’ Survivors Act. This bill aims to fully restore the Office of Survivors Assistance (OSA) to its original position under the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), where it will again serve as the primary advocate for the families of deceased U.S. military veterans.

The OSA, created to act as a key advisory body on policies affecting military survivors, had seen its role significantly diminished following administrative changes in 2021. Now, thanks to the new legislation—introduced by Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-Ariz.)—the office will regain its standing and purpose.

According to GovTrack, the bill specifically amends Title 38 of the U.S. Code to clarify the organization and responsibilities of the OSA within the VA. The measure now moves to the Senate for further consideration.

A Renewed Focus on Military Families

Lawmakers from both parties emphasized the importance of supporting the families who have lost loved ones in military service. The restoration of the OSA is seen as a major step toward reaffirming the nation’s commitment to those left behind when a soldier makes the ultimate sacrifice.

Supporters of the bill stressed that survivors often face complex challenges in accessing benefits and navigating government systems. The OSA’s restoration means these families will once again have a dedicated voice within the VA, advocating on their behalf and ensuring they aren’t forgotten.

VA Secretary Responds to Misinformation on Veteran Services

While the House advanced efforts to support military families, VA Secretary Doug Collins addressed growing concerns and rumors about the direction of the Department of Veterans Affairs, especially under current federal leadership.

Speaking with NewsNation, Collins—himself a colonel and chaplain in the Air Force Reserve—reaffirmed that the VA remains committed to veterans’ care and is not making cuts to critical services, despite circulating claims.

“We’re putting Veterans number one back at the VA,” Collins stated. “Change always brings some uncertainty, but our mission is clear: to serve those who’ve served us.”

Addressing Rumors Head-On

Collins took the opportunity to push back against what he called misinformation regarding the alleged downsizing of the VA, including false claims that the Veterans Crisis Line was laying off staff. He confirmed that no such layoffs have occurred, and that all responders remain in place to support veterans in need.

“There have been zero layoffs of Crisis Line responders,” Collins said, adding that the VA is actively working to strengthen—not reduce—support services for veterans.

He also debunked suggestions that veteran benefits are being slashed, stating the department had in fact redirected nearly $98 million into health care and benefits. Additionally, he said the VA has preserved 300,000 mission-critical positions, ensuring uninterrupted care across the system.

“When you want the truth, come to me, not the Whopper line up on Capitol Hill,” Collins quipped, taking a swipe at politically motivated narratives spreading misinformation about VA policies.

Still, Collins acknowledged the agency had sent out a notice to employees offering voluntary early resignation or retirement, ahead of an anticipated reduction in workforce later in the fiscal year. According to Stars and Stripes, employees who accept the offer will receive full pay and benefits through September 30, the end of the federal fiscal year.

Broader Legislative Activity on Immigration and Law Enforcement

In parallel with veterans’ issues, the House also moved forward on legislation tied to immigration and law enforcement. A GOP-led bill titled the Detain and Deport Illegal Aliens Who Assault Cops Act passed the House with a vote of 265-148, including support from 54 Democrats.

Sponsored by Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.), the bill mandates that any undocumented immigrant who assaults a law enforcement officer be detained and deported. It also introduces a new inadmissibility category for such offenders, effectively barring them from entering or remaining in the United States.

“There is no reason that an illegal alien who attacks our law enforcement should remain in our country,” Van Drew said. “They show no respect for our rule of law and have no place in our society.”

While some Democrats voiced concern over potential overreach and due process, the bipartisan support signaled broader political momentum behind stricter immigration enforcement, particularly regarding attacks on police officers.