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119th Congress
Independent · Nonpartisan · Reader-supported
HOUSEH.R. 7120· 119th Congress

Purple Heart Veterans Work Incentive Bill

Purple Heart Freedom to Work Act

Sponsor
Austin Scott (R-GA)
Introduced
Jan 15, 2026
Last Action
Jan 15, 2026
Passage
12%
Introduced
Jan 15, 2026
2
Committee
3
Floor Vote
4
Both Chambers
5
Enacted
01 — The Text

What.

  • Removes or reduces work disincentives for Purple Heart recipients in federal benefits programs.
  • Likely modifies earnings limits or benefit phase-out rules for wounded veterans.
  • Specific provisions pending—official summary not yet published by Congress.
02 — The Stakes

So what?

  • Purple Heart veterans gain ability to earn income without losing benefits—removes cliff effects that discourage employment.
  • Supports veteran workforce participation and economic independence after service-related injuries.
  • May reduce federal spending on benefits for working veterans, or increase it if earnings thresholds raise significantly.
03 — The Path

Now what?

  • Bill introduced and referred to House Ways and Means Committee (Jan. 15, 2026). Awaits committee review and detailed analysis.
  • Congressional Research Service summary not yet published—full policy details will emerge during committee deliberations.
  • Track progress at Congress.gov; contact your representative if you support veteran employment flexibility.
Legislative History

Actions.

  • Jan 15, 2026Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.
  • Jan 15, 2026Introduced in House
  • Jan 15, 2026Introduced in House