March 27, 2014

Congresswoman Dina Titus and Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today introduced the Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act (MST CARE Act) to make it easier for veteran survivors of Military Sexual Trauma (MST) to qualify for benefits.

To receive benefits for MST, current law requires veterans to first undergo a medical examination. In order for veterans to become eligible for the necessary medical examination, however, they must first provide evidence that their mental health condition was caused by a sexual assault during their military service. Veterans Service Organizations have determined that this evidentiary standard is the most challenging barrier for veterans seeking benefits related to MST. The MST CARE Act would eliminate this unnecessary burden by permitting the VA to accept a self-certification from veterans who believe they have a mental health condition as a result of MST. This would allow veterans to receive the benefits they need in a more timely fashion.

Additionally, this legislation would broaden the mental health conditions that can occur as a result of MST. Currently, the VA only recognizes PTSD as a mental health condition and does not include other disorders, such as depression and anxiety, which can also result from MST.

“Requiring victims of sexual trauma to prove their assault occurred during their military service creates a substantial barrier to the critical services these veterans need. The Military Sexual Trauma CARE Act would eliminate this regulatory burden and expedite veterans’ access to the care they not only need, but also deserve,” said Titus. “The scars caused by military sexual trauma are not always visible, but they can be just as devastating as physical wounds. It is important that we not only recognize the psychological effects of MST, but ensure our veterans have access to the proper treatment.”

“Sexual assault and harassment are serious problems in the United States Armed Forces, threatening the strength, readiness, and morale of the military and devastating survivors and their families, while undermining national security. Yet, veterans who survive in-service sexual trauma also face some of the greatest difficulties in getting treatment,” DeLauro said. “The Military Sexual Trauma CARE Act is a critical, common-sense step toward eliminating that burden and ensuring those who served our country are honored once they come home.”

The Military Sexual Trauma Claims Administration Reform and Eligibility Act is endorsed by the Service Women's Action Network (SWAN,) the American Legion, the National Domestic Violence Hotline, and the National Center on Domestic and Sexual Violence.