DAV-supported bill would expand coverage for recreational prostheses

Veterans who play sports and exercise regularly report higher self-esteem, lower depression and anxiety levels, and reduced stress. For those transitioning back to civilian life, physical activity is also a proven tool for reducing the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. Yet for veterans living with physical disabilities, the path to the gym or playing field often requires more than determination. It requires activity-specific prostheses and custom orthoses—equipment that can be prohibitively expensive.

Since World War II, the Department of Veterans Affairs has worked to improve prosthetics for service-disabled veterans, including those who have experienced limb loss. Over decades, the VA has pioneered advancements that have enhanced functionality and strengthened the connection between veterans and their prosthetic devices. Despite these technological leaps, a significant gap remains for veterans seeking to maintain an active lifestyle.

“Current law restricts the VA from providing recreational prostheses unless they are considered a ‘direct and active component’ of medical treatment,” said DAV National Legislative Director Jon Retzer. “As a result, prostheses that support exercise beyond a prescribed rehabilitation plan are typically not covered. This leaves many veterans sidelined once their initial clinical therapy concludes.”

The Veterans Supporting Prosthetics Opportunities and Recreational Therapy (SPORT) Act (H.R. 1971/S. 3138) was introduced in the House and Senate to close this gap. By expanding the definition of medical services to explicitly include adaptive prostheses and custom devices for sports and other recreational activities, the bill opens a gateway to independence, confidence and renewed possibilities. It recognizes that health is a lifelong pursuit–not a static goal.

“Our disabled veterans made tremendous sacrifices in defense of our nation, and they shouldn’t have to navigate VA red tape to get the medical equipment they need to lead active lifestyles,” said Sen. Jim Banks, the bill’s sponsor. “The Veterans SPORT Act would make sure their prostheses are always covered.”

The VA’s Prosthetics & Sensory Aids Service is the largest and most comprehensive provider of prosthetic devices and sensory aids in the world. This legislation would expand the VA medical benefits package to fully cover recreational prostheses on a permanent basis, ensuring the department remains the global leader in rehabilitation and veterans care.

“Every service-disabled veteran deserves the opportunity to lead an active, fulfilling life,” said DAV National Commander Coleman Nee. “For many, that independence depends on specialized adaptive equipment that goes beyond basic mobility. DAV is proud to support this legislation as it honors our commitment to the total well-being of those who served.”

To take action on the Veterans SPORT Act or other key veterans legislation, join DAV CAN (Commander’s Action Network) at davcan.org.