Congressional Bills,H.R. 9997 (IH) – To name the Department of Veterans Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in Toms River, New Jersey, the Leonard G. ‘Bud’ Lomell, Jr. VA Clinic, and for other purposes.

H.R. 9997: A Bill to Honor a Local Veteran and Enhance Veterans’ Healthcare Access

Washington, D.C., October 26, 2024: Today, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ) introduced H.R. 9997, a bill that would rename the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) community-based outpatient clinic in Toms River, New Jersey, the Leonard G. ‘Bud’ Lomell, Jr. VA Clinic. The bill also includes provisions to enhance healthcare access for veterans in the district.

Honoring a Local Veteran’s Service

Leonard G. “Bud” Lomell, Jr. was a lifelong resident of Toms River who served in the United States Army during the Korean War. After his military service, Lomell became actively involved in his community, serving as a volunteer firefighter, EMT, and member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). He dedicated his life to serving others, both in and out of uniform.

Congresswoman Sherrill stated, “Bud Lomell was a true American hero who dedicated his life to serving our country and community. Renaming the VA clinic in his honor is a fitting tribute to his selfless service and the sacrifices made by all our veterans.”

Enhancing Veterans’ Healthcare Access

In addition to renaming the VA clinic, H.R. 9997 includes provisions to address the challenges veterans face in accessing healthcare services. The bill would:

  • Increase the number of healthcare providers serving veterans in New Jersey.
  • Expand telehealth services to reach veterans in rural areas and reduce wait times.
  • Provide additional funding for mental health and substance abuse treatment programs.

“Our veterans deserve the best possible healthcare, and this bill takes important steps to address the challenges they face,” said Congresswoman Sherrill. “By increasing access to care, expanding telehealth services, and providing additional mental health resources, we can ensure that our veterans receive the support they need.”

Bipartisan Support

H.R. 9997 has received bipartisan support from members of the New Jersey congressional delegation. Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ) is a cosponsor of the bill, and Senators Bob Menendez (D-NJ) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) have expressed their support.

“Bud Lomell was a respected member of our community who dedicated his life to helping others,” said Congressman Smith. “This bill would not only honor his service but also ensure that our veterans have access to the healthcare they need.”

Next Steps

H.R. 9997 has been referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, where it will be considered by the committee and potentially amended before being voted on by the full House of Representatives. If passed by the House, the bill would then be sent to the Senate for consideration.


H.R. 9997 (IH) – To name the Department of Veterans Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in Toms River, New Jersey, the Leonard G. ‘Bud’ Lomell, Jr. VA Clinic, and for other purposes.

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