hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Expands VA telescreening mammography pilot program nationwide and adds accessibility requirements.
Rep. Thompson (R-PA), with bipartisan co-sponsors; referred to Veterans' Affairs Committee.
Introduced in House; referred to committee; no vote scheduled.
This bill removes the pilot designation of the VA's telescreening mammography program, making it permanent. It requires the VA to offer mammography services (telescreening, full-service, or mobile) in every state and Puerto Rico within two years. Sponsors include Rep. Thompson (R-PA), Rep. Larsen (D-WA), Rep. Kiggans (R-VA), and Rep. Dexter (D-CA). The bill is now in the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, where it must be approved before a full House vote.
Introduced Feb 5, 2026
This bill is under review by a committee. The committee holds hearings, gathers testimony from experts and stakeholders, and may propose amendments. If the committee votes to advance it, the bill moves to the full chamber for debate and a vote.
VA currently runs a telescreening mammography pilot at limited sites. This bill directs the VA to offer telescreening, full-service, or mobile mammography in every state and Puerto Rico within two years, ensuring more veterans can get screened without long travel. Additionally, all these programs must meet accessibility standards for veterans with disabilities like paralysis or spinal cord injuries. The bill does not change who is eligible for VA care, only expands the locations and types of mammography available.
Supporters Say
Supporters say expanding telescreening and mobile mammography will save veterans' lives by catching breast cancer early, especially in rural areas with few VA facilities.
Critics Say
Critics worry the VA may lack the funding or staff to roll out services to every state and Puerto Rico in just two years, potentially stretching resources thin.
Veterans' health advocacy groups generally support the bill, citing that many female veterans face long distances to get mammograms. Veteran service organizations have praised the bipartisan sponsorship. However, some budget analysts question whether the VA has the infrastructure to meet the two-year deadline without additional appropriations, especially for mobile units and telehealth equipment. The bill does not authorize new funding, which may require the VA to reallocate existing budgets.