Automotive Support Services to Improve Safe Transportation Act of 2025
Summary
HB 1364, the Automotive Support Services to Improve Safe Transportation Act of 2025 (the “ASSIST Act of 2025”), amends title 38 of the U.S. Code to clarify that medically necessary automobile adaptations are included within the Department of Veterans Affairs’ definition of “medical services.” The bill specifically lists covered adaptations such as ramp and kneeling systems, raised doors or lowered floors, raised roofs, air conditioning, mobility lifts, accessibility modifications for entering or exiting a vehicle, wheelchair tiedowns, and adapted seating.
In addition to the VA medical-services clarification, the bill extends a statutory deadline related to certain pension payment limits by changing the date in section 5503(d)(7) from November 30, 2031, to September 30, 2032. The measure was passed by the House of Representatives on May 19, 2025, and then received in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.
Impact
The bill would directly affect VA administration and veterans who rely on vehicle modifications for safe transportation by making clear that medically necessary automobile adaptations are a covered form of medical service under title 38. This clarification could support eligibility, reimbursement, or provision of adaptive equipment through VA programs. It also amends a separate pension-related provision to extend an existing limit on certain pension payments by nearly one year, affecting the timing of that statutory cap under federal veterans law.
Sentiment
The available legislative history suggests generally favorable treatment of the bill. It passed the House and was referred in the Senate without any recorded votes or committee transcript indicating opposition in the provided materials. The bill’s title and text reflect a practical, veterans-focused measure aimed at improving access and transportation safety for disabled veterans.
Contention
No specific points of contention are documented in the provided committee or vote materials. Based on the text, any debate would likely center on the scope of VA responsibility for automobile adaptations, the cost or administrative implications of expanding the definition of medical services, and the separate extension of pension payment limits. However, the supplied record does not show identified opponents or formal objections.
SAFE STEPS for Veterans Act of 2025 Supporting Access to Falls Education and Prevention and Strengthening Training Efforts and Promoting Safety Initiatives for Veterans Act of 2025