Automotive Support Services to Improve Safe Transportation Act of 2025
The Automotive Support Services to Improve Safe Transportation Act of 2025 (ASSIST Act) would clarify that certain automobile adaptations required for medical purposes are included in the Department of Veterans Affairs’ definition of “medical services.” Specifically, the bill amends 38 U.S.C. to list a range of medically necessary automobile adaptations that VA may provide or fund, such as ramps, kneeling systems, raised doors and floors, raised roofs, air conditioning, mobility lifts, ingress/egress modifications, wheelchair tie-downs, and adapted seating. This aims to improve access to safe transportation for veterans with mobility impairments by ensuring these modifications are recognized as medical services. The bill also extends a pension-related payment deadline by one year, moving the date from November 30, 2031 to September 30, 2032. The bill is introduced and referred to the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.
Key Points
- 1Short title: The act may be cited as the “Automotive Support Services to Improve Safe Transportation Act of 2025” or the “ASSIST Act of 2025.”
- 2Inclusion of auto adaptations in medical services: Section 1701(6)(I) of title 38, U.S.C. is amended to explicitly include the provision of medically necessary automobile adaptations for driver or passenger use as a medical service.
- 3Specific adaptations listed: The bill enumerates items such as ramps and kneeling systems, raised doors or lowered floors, raised roofs, air conditioning, mobility lifts, ingress/egress modifications, wheelchair tie-downs, and adapted seating.
- 4Pension payment extension: Section 5503(d)(7) of title 38, U.S.C. is amended to extend the date by which certain pension payments are limited or sunset, from November 30, 2031 to September 30, 2032.
- 5Legislative status: The bill was introduced in the House (H.R. 1364), passed the House on May 19, 2025, and was referred in the Senate to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.