Golden Passes Amendments to Expand Veterans’ Access to Child Care, Mental Health Services
VIDEO: Golden Urges Congress to Support Veterans Living in Rural Areas
WASHINGTON — U.S. Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) delivered for Maine veterans today, securing two amendments in HR 840, the Veterans' Access to Child Care Act. The bill helps veterans access VA care by providing safe, reliable, and cost-free child care during VA appointments. The bipartisan bill passed the House today and will now head to the Senate.
Golden took to the House floor to offer two amendments to the Veterans' Access to Child Care Act, both of which were included in the final bill. The first amendment expands the legislation to include readjustment counseling, mental health services designed to help veterans and their families transition to from active duty to civilian life.
The second amendment helps ensure the VA Child Care program is effective and accessible for veterans in rural areas by directing the VA to report to Congress on the program's impact in rural areas. Maine is one of the most rural states in the country and is home to over 110,000 veterans.
"I'm a veteran diagnosed with post-traumatic stress, so I know first-hand how important it is for veterans to have access to mental health services," said Congressman Golden. "No veteran should have to choose between their VA mental health and taking care of their kids. My amendments expand the mental health services available to veterans using the VA Child Care program and help ensure the program works for rural veterans in Maine and across the country."