The nearly $15 billion budget shortfall currently facing the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) could cause a benefits lapse or a disruption in health care for United States military veterans, according to U.S. Rep. Rudy Yakym (R-IN).
“Specifically, my office was recently made aware that the Veterans Benefits Administration is expecting a $2.88 billion shortfall, and the Veterans Health Administration is expecting a $11.97 billion shortfall near the end of fiscal year 2024,” the congressman wrote in a July 31 letter sent to VA Secretary Denis McDonough.
“As the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, I am sure you know that a lapse in benefits, or worse, a disruption to VA healthcare is completely unacceptable,” he added.
Rep. Yakym requested that the VA schedule a briefing to explain specifically what caused the shortfall, what Congress and the VA could have done to prevent it, and what can be done to rectify the situation and ensure that the VA is delivering for veterans, according to his letter.
“According to some estimates, more than 40 veterans take their lives every day,” the congressman wrote. “In light of this daily tragedy, it is more important than ever to ensure that the VA is fulfilling its promise to our veterans.”