U.S. Senators Mazie K. Hirono and Dan Sullivan have introduced the Representing VA with Accuracy (REP VA) Act, a new piece of legislation aimed at enhancing support for veterans in rural states such as Alaska and Hawaii. The bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish in-state call centers that provide state-specific assistance for veterans seeking healthcare appointments.
Senator Hirono emphasized the importance of local support for veterans, stating, "All veterans, especially those located in more rural and remote areas such as Hawaii and Alaska, should be able to pick up the phone and speak to someone at VA who is within their community and geographical time zone—people who will be able to better assist them and make them feel heard." She added that the legislation would help reduce wait times and protect veterans from potential scams.
The proposed legislation also mandates that calls made by or on behalf of the VA use well-known telephone numbers with caller identification branding, ensuring clarity about the source of communication.
Senator Hirono has been active in supporting veteran-related issues. Recently, she introduced several bills including the Veteran Fraud Reimbursement Act, which aims to streamline financial recovery for defrauded disabled veterans, and the Veteran Caregiver Reeducation, Reemployment, and Retirement Act to aid family caregivers transitioning into retirement or the workforce. Other legislative efforts include enhancing healthcare services through the VetPAC Act and expediting visa processes for children of Filipino World War II veterans via the Filipino Veterans Family Reunification Act of 2025. Additionally, she reintroduced legislation to expand capital access for veteran-owned small businesses through the Veterans Member Business Loan Act.