The DRIVE Act of 2025 ensures that veteran beneficiary travel reimbursement rates are equal to the federal employee rate and mandates timely payments.
Peter Welch
Senator
VT
The DRIVE Act of 2025 ensures that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides a mileage reimbursement rate for beneficiary travel that is at least equal to the federal rate provided to government employees. It also mandates that the VA process and pay these mileage allowances within 90 days of receiving a complete and accurate claim. This bill aims to reduce the financial burden on veterans when traveling to receive medical care.
DRIVE Act Boosts Mileage Reimbursement for Veterans, Payments Required Within 90 Days
The DRIVE Act of 2025 is all about making sure veterans get a fair shake when it comes to travel reimbursement for medical care. This bill does two major things: it levels the playing field on mileage rates and sets a firm deadline for payments.
Making Mileage Matter
The core of the DRIVE Act is ensuring the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) pays veterans the same mileage rate for travel to medical appointments as other government employees get when using their own cars for work. Think of a veteran driving from rural Ohio to a VA clinic in Cleveland. If the government rate is, say, 67 cents per mile, the VA must pay that rate, too. No more shortchanging veterans on gas money. This is directly pulled from SEC. 2, which updates the VA's payment rules.
90-Day Payment Guarantee
Beyond the mileage rate, the DRIVE Act puts a 90-day shot clock on the VA. Once a veteran submits a proper travel reimbursement request, the VA has 90 days to pay up. This is a big deal for veterans who've had to front the cost of gas, tolls, and sometimes even overnight stays, only to wait months for reimbursement. That’s real money out of pocket, especially tough with today's prices. For instance, a disabled veteran who regularly needs specialized care far from home could be looking at significant travel expenses each month. This 90-day rule, as outlined in SEC. 2, provides some financial predictability.
Real-World Impact
This isn't just about numbers; it's about access to healthcare. For veterans in rural areas, or those needing specialized treatment, travel can be a major barrier. By ensuring fair and timely reimbursement, the DRIVE Act could make it easier for veterans to get the care they need. It also addresses a fairness issue – veterans shouldn't be out of pocket more than other government employees for travel costs. The challenge, of course, will be in the VA's implementation. They'll need the systems and staffing to handle these claims quickly and accurately. Any hiccups there could undermine the bill's intent. But, if implemented correctly this could be a huge benefit for veterans across the country.