Washington, DC—March 11, 2025…Today, the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Health considered Congressman Steve Womack’s (AR-3) bill, H.R. 1107, the Protecting Veteran Access to Telemedicine Services Act of 2025. At the hearing, Congressman Womack spoke about the importance of the legislation and urged swift passage.
Remarks as prepared:
“Chairwoman Miller-Meeks, Ranking Member Brownley, and distinguished members of the subcommittee, thank you for considering my bill, H.R. 1107, the Protecting Veteran Access to Telemedicine Services Act of 2025. I also want to express my sincere gratitude for allowing me to speak in support of this legislation today.
“This bill aims to guarantee that our nation’s veterans—whether in bustling cities or remote rural areas—have continuous access to the healthcare services they need and deserve.
“The Ryan Haight Online Pharmacy Consumer Protection Act, enacted in 2008, was designed to regulate the prescription of controlled substances via telemedicine in response to the rise of online pharmacies and the risk of misuse. While this law plays a crucial role in protecting public health, it has not been updated to reflect the realities of 2025. Nor does it account for the fundamental differences between the VA and civilian online pharmacies.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ryan Haight Act’s in-person consultation requirement for prescribing controlled substances was temporarily waived. The DEA and HHS later extended these flexibilities through the end of this year.
“My bill, the Protecting Veteran Access to Telemedicine Services Act of 2025, would make this exemption permanent for the VA allowing VA healthcare professionals to prescribe medically necessary controlled substances via telemedicine under specific conditions.
“This exemption has been a lifeline for our veterans. Without it, many will face severe restrictions in accessing vital healthcare.
“For veterans in urban areas, letting this exemption expire would mean longer wait times for in-person appointments, further straining an already overburdened VA healthcare system. The impact is even greater for veterans in rural communities, where geographic isolation and limited healthcare providers create significant barriers. The exemption has allowed them to receive care from VA specialists hundreds of miles away, without the burden of costly and time-consuming travel.
“Continuing this exemption isn’t just a matter of convenience—it’s a necessity. It ensures that every veteran, no matter where they live, has equal access to the care they have earned and deserve.
“I’m honored to speak in support of this legislation today. I urge my colleagues to act swiftly in passing this bill. Our veterans have sacrificed so much for our country—it’s our duty to ensure they receive the care they need in a way that meets the demands of today’s world.”
Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas’ Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.