Barrett’s First Bill Passes House of Representatives With Strong Bipartisan Support

Washington, D.C. — Today, the U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed Congressman Tom Barrett’s (MI-07) first bill, the Clear Communication for Veterans Claims Act (H.R. 1039). This bipartisan legislation, which he introduced with House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Mike Bost (IL-12) and Representative Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), will require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to make significant improvements to its overly complicated claims process and streamline communications with veterans.

“When a veteran files a claim, it means they need help. Yet too often what they receive is a long, confusing letter full of legal jargon that leaves them with more questions than answers,” said Barrett. “Claims letters should be the catalyst to care and benefits, not the obstacle. Making these notices clear, concise, and easy to understand is not only good policy, it’s common sense. I’m proud that my first bill to pass the House will do exactly that and make a real difference for veterans across this country.”

"This is a real victory for veterans who have long been frustrated by overcomplicated language when trying to access the benefits they’ve rightfully earned,” said Budzinski. “I’m proud to have worked across the aisle with Congressman Barrett on this critical bill – a bill that will ensure our veterans receive the support and services they deserve without unnecessary barriers. Together, we will keep working to push this commonsense legislation across the finish line.”

Barrett, a 22-year Army veteran and Chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Technology Modernization, introduced the Clear Communication for Veterans Claims Act to address the stress and confusion veterans often experience when interacting with the VA. The legislation specifically requires the VA to work with a third party to simplify claims letters and make them easier for veterans to understand. It also directs the VA to work with veterans, advocates, and communication experts to ensure all materials meet this new standard moving forward.

The bill passed by a vote of 412 - 0 and now heads to the Senate for consideration.

CLICK HERE to read the bill text.

Click here to watch Rep. Barrett’s floor speech.

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