The DRIVE Act of 2025 ensures veterans receive a mileage reimbursement rate for travel to VA facilities that is at least equal to the federal employee rate and mandates timely payment of these allowances.
Julia Brownley
Representative
CA-26
The DRIVE Act of 2025 ensures that veteran's mileage reimbursement rate for travel to VA facilities is at least equal to the federal employee rate. It mandates the VA to pay these allowances within 90 days of a complete claim submission. This act updates outdated language to reflect these changes, aiming to provide equitable and timely compensation for veterans' travel expenses.
DRIVE Act Aims for Equal Mileage Rates, Faster Payments for Veterans' VA Travel
The Driver Reimbursement Increase for Veteran Equity Act of 2025, or DRIVE Act, tackles how the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) handles travel reimbursements. It mandates two key changes: first, veterans traveling for VA care must be paid a mileage rate at least equal to what federal employees get for official travel using their own cars. Second, the VA is required to process and pay these mileage claims within 90 days of receiving a properly submitted request.
Gas Money Gets an Upgrade
This bill essentially says veterans shouldn't get shortchanged on gas money compared to government workers when they have to drive for VA appointments or services. By tying the minimum veteran reimbursement rate directly to the standard government rate (set by the General Services Administration), the DRIVE Act aims to ensure fairer compensation that keeps pace with actual travel costs. If you're a vet driving a significant distance for specialized care, this change could mean a noticeable difference in how much you get back in your pocket, making it less of a financial strain to access necessary services.
Cutting Down the Wait Time
The other major piece here is the 90-day payment deadline. Anyone who's dealt with reimbursement processes knows delays can be frustrating. This provision puts a time limit on the VA, requiring them to cut the check within three months once a veteran submits all the necessary paperwork correctly. While it still relies on a 'properly submitted request,' the goal is clear: get veterans their money faster. This could ease cash flow issues for vets who front travel costs, particularly those on tight budgets. The Act also cleans up some old language in the law to align with these new standards.