Congressional Bill H.R. 224, H.R. 1823, H.R. 4446 Signed into Law

New Veterans Legislation Signed into Law Impacting Housing, Budget, and Rehabilitation

Impact Score: 2.6

Timeline: Signed into law on January 20, 2026; no specified implementation deadlines.

Summary: Three laws were signed addressing veterans’ issues: H.R. 224 excludes service-connected disability compensation from income eligibility for housing, potentially increasing veterans’ access to affordable housing; H.R. 1823 mandates reports on VA budget shortfalls, increasing oversight on funding; and H.R. 4446 (FAST VETS Act) requires redevelopment of veterans’ vocational rehabilitation plans. These changes present opportunities and challenges for institutions like Vanderbilt University to adjust support services, develop tailored training programs, and engage in related research.

Key Actions: Vanderbilt should monitor changes in housing eligibility, engage with VA regarding budget impacts, and expand vocational rehabilitation partnerships to enhance veteran support and training programs.