Two House Democrats are demanding the Department of Veterans Affairs reinstate dedicated LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinator positions and restore specialized support networks after the VA restructured the program this summer. Reps. Seth Moulton of Massachusetts and Chrissy Houlahan of Pennsylvania said the changes eliminate tailored healthcare resources for LGBTQ+ veterans and risk discouraging them from seeking care.
The lawmakers’ letter to VA Secretary Doug Collins follows internal directives that redesignated coordinator roles as generic "Care Coordinators" and restricted resources for LGBTQ+ support activities. A June memorandum from VHA Under Secretary John Bartrum barred the use of VA funds or facilities for activities promoting "gender-ideology or gender-identity," and directed the discontinuation of national support programs, including monthly calls and orientation sessions.
Moulton and Houlahan argue the changes could create confusion and undermine trust among LGBTQ+ veterans, who have historically faced discrimination. They request the VA restore dedicated coordinator roles, rescind restrictions on support groups, and clarify how specialized services will be preserved. The VA has not publicly addressed the letter or the program changes.
