DoD and VA would share a joint medical facility fund

What does this do?

This bill sets up a permanent shared fund, called the Joint Medical Facility Fund, for medical facilities that the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs run together. Both departments can put money in and draw money out to cover operations, equipment, upkeep, and smaller construction projects at those shared sites. Most funds last about one year, and up to 2% can carry over for an extra year.

Who does it affect?

Both the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs would use this fund. The facilities it supports serve active-duty military members and veterans who receive care in the same building.

Why does it matter?

Without a shared fund, the two departments have no permanent, common pool of money to manage joint facilities together. The bill also requires both departments to report to Congress within 180 days on which other facilities could potentially become joint facilities in the future.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Funded by both departments' budgets
• Insurers & third parties can contribute

Where does it stand?