Press Releases

Washington, D.C. – 6/4/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) introduced the Veterans Electronic Trust and Records Act  (VETRA Act), legislation directing the Department of Veterans Affairs to establish a pilot program to modernize its digital identity proofing and authentication systems. Chairman Mike Bost and the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs have expressed support for the legislation. 

The legislation would require the VA to replace outdated identity verification methods with high-assurance digital identity solutions designed to reduce fraud and improper payments while improving secure access to VA benefits and services. It also requires the Department to implement risk-tiered authentication measures, evaluate cost savings and operational efficiencies, and report its findings to Congress. 

“As more VA services move online, we must modernize outdated identity verification systems, strengthen protections against fraud and improper payments, and ensure veterans can safely and efficiently access the care and benefits they depend on. Veterans deserve a secure and reliable system for accessing the benefits they earned through their service, and I will continue advocating for legislation that improves their experience and upholds our commitment to those who have sacrificed for our country,”  said Congressman Lawler. 

“Todays and tomorrow’s veterans deserve a VA that is secure and stress-free. The Veterans Electronic Trust and Records Authorization Act, led by Rep. Mike Lawler, would make it easier for veterans who are accessing their benefits and healthcare through VA.gov by modernizing VA’s digital identity and authentication systems to meet today’s standards. I want to thank my friend, Rep. Mike Lawler, for his leadership on this vitally important, forward-thinking bill to ensure veterans nationwide – and in New York’s 17th district – have access to the most modern and efficient tools to get the healthcare benefits they have earned,” said Chairman Mike Bost.

The full bill text can be found HERE.

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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