As more veterans return to the U.S., more programs and benefits are needed to help take care of those veterans. In order to function, those programs need money, which Congress has supplied by the billions over the years. Lobbyists assume the benefits programs Congress authorize will be appropriately funded, but that's not always the case.
Congress authorized less money for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) over the last year. At the same time, more benefit programs need funding.
The VA has few options in how to pay for "unfunded mandates" they are obligated to launch. Essentially, the only way they can pay for these obligations is by using money already dedicated to other services they are already providing.
Recent examples of such legislation passed without proper funding include:
- the family caregiver law for seriously disabled veterans; and
- expansion of health benefits for female veterans to include child care services for single parents.
There are currently 35 new pieces of legislation written to help veterans pending in front of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee. The VA cannot possibly pay for every passed benefit program given slowing funding. Passing new benefits programs cannot negatively affect existing benefits, as that defeats the purpose of helping veterans.
If you are a disabled veteran who has been denied disability compensation or have not yet applied for benefits from the VA, a South Florida disability attorney from LaVan & Neidenberg is ready to help. To learn if you are entitled to certain programs and benefits contact our veterans disability rights firm today - 1-888-234-5758.
Category: Veterans' Disability
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Soldiers can return home with a number of conditions, injuries, and aggravated preexisting conditions. If you believe you have a service-connected physical or psychological injury you may be entitled to Veterans’ Disability Compensation.