A bill that was recently introduced in the United States Congress could potentially result in significant cuts to some disability benefits, according to Disabled American Veterans (DAV), an advocacy group for disabled veterans. Among other things, the legislation would reduce benefits for veterans with certain service-related disabilities, such as tinnitus or sleep apnea. Moreover, it would affect the employment classification of a number of employees, as well as increase outsourcing, which could also have a negative impact on care.
New Bill Could Reduce Some Veteran Benefits
The Take Care of America’s Veterans Act (H.R. 9237, S. 4744) is a bill that integrates about 60 different proposals related to VA disability benefits and care. While some parts of the Act would improve certain aspects of veteran benefits, others would be cut significantly. For example, veterans with service-related tinnitus or sleep apnea could see their current benefits reduced, while future claims might be rejected entirely.
VA Worker Protections Could Be Negatively Impacted
The bill also reclassifies thousands of VA employees as “Title 38” employees. Title 38 is a classification of workers that includes many medical professionals, including doctors and lawyers, who have reduced collective bargaining rights and labor protections compared to “General Schedule” (GS) employees. Currently, about 5,000 psychologists working for the VA are considered GS, but under the new proposal, would be converted to Title 38 employees, placing them under more restrictive rules.
Increased Outsourcing of Care
Another proposal in the Act would expand the use of outsourcing, placing veteran care in the hands of for-profit doctors and hospitals outside the VA system. While this might seem like a potential upside on the surface, studies have shown that outsourced care is often substantially worse for veterans than it is in the VA. While this is ostensibly meant to help cut costs, there is little sign that it would be more cost-effective to place veterans in private care rather than keep them in the VA system.
Protecting Your Disability Benefits
Whether you currently received veteran benefits through the VA due to a service-related disability, or you are looking to apply for benefits, you should make sure you are represented by an experienced attorney. Not only can they help you apply, they can argue on your behalf if your claim is denied. That way, you have the best possible chance of success in obtaining or protecting your benefits.
The attorneys of Sullivan & Kehoe place a special focus on assisting disabled veterans. Our veterans’ disability lawyers are still available for remote consultation on your legal issues. Call our office at (800) 395-7830 to schedule a consultation in our New York City, Garden City, Kings Park, Riverhead, or White Plains office, or visit our contact page.
