Congressional Bills H.R. 695 and H.R. 2483 Signed into Law
12/1/2025
Action Summary
- Date of Action: December 1, 2025
- Legislative Measures: Two congressional bills signed into law.
- Medal of Honor Act (H.R. 695): Requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to increase the rate of the special monthly pension for living Medal of Honor recipients.
- SUPPORT for Patients and Communications Reauthorization Act of 2025 (H.R. 2483): Reauthorizes programs related to substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery.
Risks & Considerations
- The signing of H.R. 695, the “Medal of Honor Act,” may not directly impact Vanderbilt University but could enhance its reputation as a veteran-supportive institution if it aligns its programs with veteran affairs.
- H.R. 2483, the “SUPPORT for Patients and Communications Reauthorization Act,” could affect Vanderbilt’s programs focused on healthcare, mental health, and substance use disorder. The university may need to adjust its research priorities and community outreach programs to align with reauthorized federal strategies.
- There may be opportunities for Vanderbilt to expand its research and partnerships in areas related to substance use disorder prevention and treatment, leveraging potential federal funding and collaboration.
- Changes in federal priorities could necessitate updates to curriculum and training programs, particularly within medical and public health schools, to integrate the latest guidelines and funding availability in substance use disorder management.
Impacted Programs
- The School of Nursing and School of Medicine might see increased demand for expertise in substance use disorders, potentially leading to new research initiatives or curriculum developments.
- Vanderbilt’s Center for Addiction Research could play a pivotal role in aligning research efforts with national priorities, possibly accessing new funding streams.
- The Department of Veterans Services may look to enhance its programs by acknowledging the increased benefits for Medal of Honor recipients, further supporting veteran students.
- Community outreach programs within the university may need to expand partnerships with local health organizations to support substance use disorder prevention and recovery efforts.
Financial Impact
- Potential increases in federal funding for research and program development related to substance use disorders could present financial opportunities for Vanderbilt.
- Adjustments in research funding priorities may require strategic planning to capitalize on newly available grants and federal support.
- While the direct financial impact of the Medal of Honor Act is minimal, aligning with veteran-related initiatives could enhance funding opportunities through veteran affairs partnerships.
- Overall, the financial implications are moderate, with opportunities for growth in targeted research and community engagement areas.
Relevance Score: 3 (These legislative changes pose moderate risks and opportunities for alignment with federal priorities, particularly in healthcare and veteran support areas.)
Key Actions
- Vanderbilt’s Veterans Affairs Office should engage with the Department of Veterans Affairs to understand the implications of the increased pension for Medal of Honor recipients. This action could lead to improved support and outreach strategies for veteran students and faculty at Vanderbilt.
- Vanderbilt’s Medical Center and School of Medicine should evaluate opportunities to enhance their programs related to substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery. By aligning with the reauthorized SUPPORT Act, Vanderbilt can secure funding and partnerships to advance its research and clinical services in this critical area.
Opportunities
- The reauthorization of the SUPPORT Act presents an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Center for Addiction Research to expand its scope and influence in the field of substance use disorders. Engaging in collaborative research and policy development can position Vanderbilt as a leader in combating the opioid crisis and other related challenges.
- Vanderbilt’s Public Policy Studies Program can analyze the impacts of these legislative changes on national health policies, offering insights that could shape future educational programs and public policy initiatives.
Relevance Score: 3 (Some adjustments are needed to processes or procedures, particularly in veteran support and substance use disorder programs.)
Timeline for Implementation
N/A – There are no specific enforcement dates or implementation deadlines provided; only the signing date is mentioned.
Relevance Score: 1
Impacted Government Organizations
- Department of Veterans Affairs: This agency is explicitly directed under H.R. 695, the “Medal of Honor Act,” to increase the special monthly pension for living Medal of Honor recipients.
- Department of Health and Human Services (HHS): The “SUPPORT for Patients and Communications Reauthorization Act of 2025” reauthorizes programs related to substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery, which are typically administered through HHS.
Relevance Score: 1 (Only 1 or 2 agencies are affected by this legislation.)
Responsible Officials
- Secretary of Veterans Affairs – Charged with implementing the increase in the special monthly pension for living Medal of Honor recipients as mandated by H.R. 695.
Note: The reauthorization component in H.R. 2483 does not specify a particular official for implementation.
Relevance Score: 5 (Directs a Cabinet-level official with broad implications for veteran benefits.)