The gist

• Requires the VA to add automatic callback technology to its customer service phone lines within one year, so veterans stop wasting hours on hold.

Who wins, who loses

• Wins: veterans calling the VA for benefits, claims, or appointment help; their family caregivers.
• Loses: no one materially; VA faces new tech costs but no organized opposition.

What it does

• Gives the VA Secretary 12 months after enactment to install the automated system on every covered line.
• Requires the system to tell callers their estimated wait time upfront.
• Triggers an automatic callback offer whenever the wait exceeds 10 minutes.
• Directs the Secretary to issue guidance aimed at cutting average wait times to 10 minutes or less. Excludes the Veterans Crisis Line and hospital emergency lines.

Why should I care?

Supporters say veterans shouldn't wait hours to reach the agency handling their healthcare and benefits, and callback tech is standard at banks and airlines. Critics argue the VA needs more staff, not just better hold music, and that a 10-minute target is unrealistic without funding. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.