Duval Times

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator Rick Scott has called on Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough to establish consistent rules across all Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities regarding service animal access. This comes after Senator Scott's recent Senate Special Committee on Aging field hearing in Tampa, Florida, where he discussed the challenges faced by veterans. It was brought to his attention during the hearing that different VA hospitals have varying rules that impact veterans' ability to receive proper treatment.

During the field hearing, representatives from the Blinded Veterans Association (BVA) and K9 Partners for Patriots highlighted the difficulties veterans face due to the inconsistent policies across different VA facilities regarding service animal entry. Senator Scott recognizes that this lack of uniformity negatively affects veterans, hindering their access to care and services.

In a letter addressed to Secretary McDonough, Senator Scott emphasizes the importance of adhering to the Architectural Barriers Act (ABA), which requires federal facilities, including VA hospitals, to be fully accessible and usable by handicapped individuals. Despite being exempt from the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), it is crucial to ensure that veterans with disabilities can bring their service animals with them when entering these facilities. Service animals play a vital role in supporting veterans' mental health and aiding those with physical disabilities in navigating their surroundings safely and independently.

Senator Scott urges the VA to establish clear and consistent guidelines for service animal access across all facilities promptly. By doing so, it will demonstrate the commitment to supporting the overall health and well-being of veterans. This is not just a matter of convenience but a matter of ensuring that those who have sacrificed for the nation are afforded the dignity, respect, and safety they deserve.

In his letter, Senator Scott expresses his appreciation to Secretary McDonough for his dedication to serving veterans and looks forward to prompt action addressing the concerns raised during the field hearing. He is hopeful that they can work together to implement positive change for those who have served the country with honor and distinction.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2024/1/sen-rick-scott-va-must-standardize-service-animal-rules-across-all-veterans-hospitals