A bipartisan bill led by U.S. Rep. Bob Latta (R-OH) would ensure the decisions of U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) disability claims are more quickly and securely sent to America’s military veterans.
“This legislation will help veterans receive notification of the outcome of their claim in a quicker and more reliable way, which will enable them to appeal the decision in a timely manner if they so choose,” the congressman said last week. “It is unacceptable for a veteran to be unable to appeal a claim decision because they never received it.”
Rep. Latta on Feb. 18 sponsored the Veterans Right to Expediency Act, H.R. 1147, to require that the VA deliver notice of the denial of claims for benefits under federal laws by certified mail, according to the congressional record bill summary. Among the seven cosponsors of the bill are U.S. Reps. Dave Joyce (R-OH), Mike Turner (R-OH), and Tim Ryan (D-OH).
“The United States is fortunate to have the bravest men and women serving in our Armed Forces,” said Rep. Latta. “When our service members return home, we must do all we can to help them receive the benefits and treatment that they have earned.”
If enacted, H.R. 1147 would “guarantee that our nation’s veterans receive notice of the result of their disability claims in a timely manner,” he added.
Rep. Latta, who hosts Veterans Advisory Group meetings, has heard concerns from many veterans during those meetings about the delayed delivery of VA notifications that in turn caused them to miss the window to submit an appeal, according to his office.