WASHINGTON — Some family members of severely wounded Iraq and Afghanistan veterans would get more government assistance under a bill that is going to the White House.

The Senate passed the legislation by voice vote on Thursday, a day after unanimous House approval.

The bill would benefit family members who forgo jobs and health insurance to provide care for an injured loved one.

The estimated $1.7 billion in caregiver benefits over a five-year period was part of comprehensive veterans legislation. The assistance would include a childcare pilot program; post-delivery care to female veterans' newborns; and expanded funding for programs assisting homeless veterans and those in rural areas.