BOISE - Rep. Walt Minnick say he intends to introduce a bill this week in the U.S. House that would require the government to reimburse veterans for health care related travel costs.
The Idaho Democrat says veterans should be allowed to live anywhere and not be penalized in the pocketbook if they live hundreds of miles from a VA hospital or clinic.
Minnick's legislation would mandate travel cost reimbursement to veterans traveling more than 150 miles.
Veterans would be repaid for lodging and food at the same rate as federal employees. The bill would also allow reimbursement if inclement weather leaves them stranded and unable to travel after getting medical treatment.
Under the existing rules, reimbursements are determined on a case-by-case basis, and at a maximum of 50 percent of the federal employee rate.
