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Survivor Benefits for Veterans Dying from COVID-19

New rules make it easier for families of veterans who died from COVID-19 to receive benefits. If a veteran had a service-connected disability that might have worsened their COVID-19 illness, the Department of Veterans Affairs must determine if that disability contributed to their death before making a final decision on benefits. This aims to ensure families receive due support.
Key points
The Department of Veterans Affairs must get a medical opinion to determine if a service-connected disability contributed to a veteran's death from COVID-19.
These rules apply when a veteran had a service-connected disability that increased the risk of severe COVID-19 illness.
The Department of Veterans Affairs will inform veterans and their families about applying for benefits when a veteran dies from COVID-19.
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_89
Sponsor: Sen. Sinema, Kyrsten [D-AZ]
Process start date: 2021-01-28
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Ensuring Survivor Benefits during COVID–19 Act of 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_S_89.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-01-28.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • The Department of Veterans Affairs must get a medical opinion to determine if a service-connected disability contributed to a veteran's death from COVID-19.
  • These rules apply when a veteran had a service-connected disability that increased the risk of severe COVID-19 illness.
  • The Department of Veterans Affairs will inform veterans and their families about applying for benefits when a veteran dies from COVID-19.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Sinema, Kyrsten [D-AZ].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Passed Senate with an amendment by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S5023; text: CR S5023)

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-29.

CATEGORIES

Benefits Health