Bill would require VA to provide voter assistance to veterans

[maddezmom]

Source: Gannett

WASHINGTON -- Nine Democratic senators introduced legislation Tuesday requiring the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide voter registration services to veterans at its medical sites and homes.


The senators acted after VA Secretary James B. Peake brushed aside requests that VA facilities be designated voter registration agencies that would provide voter registration forms and assist veterans with submitting the completed forms.

Peake also reaffirmed a policy adopted in May that bans nonpartisan voting rights groups from conducting voter registration drives at VA medical centers, nursing homes, clinics and other facilities. Peake cited concerns about patients' rights, disruption of operations and involvement in partisan political activities.

Alison Aikele, a spokeswoman for the VA, said the agency currently makes voter registration services available to veterans who are in-patients or residents, and each VA facility has the option to reach out for assistance if it is not able to meet those needs.



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