What Is the Veterans Cemetery Access Modernization Act?

The Veterans Cemetery Access Modernization Act (H.R. 11000) is a bill introduced in Congress on November 13, 2026. Its main goal is to improve how veterans and their families access national and state veterans cemeteries. If passed, the law could expand eligibility for burial benefits, streamline application procedures, and enhance cemetery services.

Currently, veterans, some family members, and certain service members can qualify for burial in a VA national cemetery under 38 CFR § 38.620. The new act aims to address gaps and barriers that prevent some eligible individuals from using these benefits.

What Changes Could This Law Bring?

Though the bill is still under consideration, its intent is to:

  • Expand eligibility for burial in national and state veterans cemeteries
  • Make application and scheduling processes easier for families
  • Improve cemetery infrastructure and services, such as digital records and accessibility

For example, the law may allow more family members—such as certain parents or dependents—to be buried with eligible veterans. It may also update how the VA verifies eligibility, possibly reducing paperwork or wait times.

How to Prepare for Potential Changes

If you are a veteran or a family member planning for burial benefits, stay informed about the bill’s progress. You can track H.R. 11000 on the Congress.gov website or through VA news releases. If the law passes, the VA will likely update its policies and forms, including VA Form 40-10007 (Application for Pre-Need Determination of Eligibility for Burial in a VA National Cemetery).

Right now, you can:

  • Review current eligibility rules at the VA claims hub
  • Consider submitting a pre-need eligibility application using VA Form 40-10007
  • Gather service records and discharge paperwork (DD214) for future claims

What to Do If the Act Passes

Should the Veterans Cemetery Access Modernization Act become law, the VA will announce new procedures and eligibility guidelines. At that point, you should:

  • Check for updated forms and instructions on the VA website
  • Contact your local VA cemetery or state veterans cemetery for details
  • File new or updated applications if your eligibility status changes

For more on burial benefits and claims, visit our explainer guides or the VA claims hub.

Key Resources and Deadlines

VA burial benefits are not automatic—you must apply. If you want to secure your eligibility, submit VA Form 40-10007 as early as possible. If the law changes, there may be new deadlines or updated forms, so monitor VA announcements closely.

For help with applications or questions about eligibility, contact a VA-accredited representative or your local veterans service organization (VSO).