In a rare show of bipartisan unity, the U.S. House passed H.R. 1228, the “Prioritizing Veterans’ Survivors Act,” with a unanimous 424-0 vote. The bill restores the Office of Survivors Assistance (OSA) to its original role within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), reversing a 2021 decision that reduced its influence. Once again, the OSA will act as the VA’s chief advisor on policies affecting military survivors.
Introduced by Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-Ariz.), the bill updates Title 38 of the U.S. Code to re-establish the OSA under the VA Secretary. The bill now heads to the Senate. VA Secretary Doug Collins, a strong supporter of reforms, emphasized that all efforts are focused on improving services, not cutting them. He denied rumors of benefit reductions and assured that veterans remain a top priority. Though workforce reductions may come later, no layoffs have occurred yet.
Meanwhile, the House also passed the “Take It Down Act,” criminalizing the creation and distribution of nonconsensual deepfake pornography. Passed 409-2, it awaits President Trump’s signature. Both bills reflect Congress’ commitment to protecting veterans and citizens from digital threats, ensuring dignity, support, and justice in both real and virtual worlds.