Bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. John Katko (R-NY) allowing America’s military veterans to remotely attend U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) claims hearings became law on April 10 with the president’s signature.
“At a time in which veterans across the country are relying on tele-hearings to receive decisions on VA disability benefits and other services, I am proud that the president has signed the bipartisan VA Tele-Hearing Modernization Act into law,” Rep. Katko said on Tuesday.
In October 2019, Rep. Katko signed on as the lead original cosponsor of the VA Tele-Hearing Modernization Act, H.R. 4771, with bill sponsor U.S. Rep. Joe Cunningham (D-SC). The legislation authorizes appellants in cases before the Board of Veterans’ Appeals to appear at a hearing via picture and voice transmission, such as Skype, from locations other than VA facilities, and requires the VA to report specified statistics and information related to hearings held by picture and voice transmission, according to the congressional record summary.
“Currently, when central New York veterans appeal a decision by the VA, they are forced to drive to Buffalo or Albany for a hearing. This adds a time-consuming commute to an already stressful process for veterans and their families,” said Rep. Katko. “By modernizing this process and allowing remote access to hearings before the board, the VA Tele-Hearing Modernization Act will reduce the burden for veterans and their families.”
H.R. 4771 also includes safeguards to ensure that veterans’ personal information is protected and that cases are not negatively impacted by taking advantage of remote attendance at claims hearings, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Katko’s office.
Disabled American Veterans, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the Wounded Warrior Project all supported the enactment of the bill.