A proposed change to the law would dramatically affect potentially millions of veterans and their ability to access certain benefits. If accepted, it would redefine which veterans qualify as “peacetime” or “wartime” veterans, updating the law to include periods not traditionally classified as “war.” This, in turn, would allow some people to access benefits normally reserved to “wartime” veterans alone.
What is This Rule Change?
Under a petition sent to the US Congress, the newly proposed law would change who is classified as a “peacetime” or “wartime” veteran for the purposes of determining what benefits they are entitled to. Under current law, only veterans who fought in wars that were officially declared by Congress are considered to be wartime veterans. Given that Congress has not officially authorized military force since the Persian Gulf War in 1990, many veterans are officially excluded from that classification.
Why Was the Petition Submitted?
The petition was originally organized by Tim Cookson, a veteran from Ohio who noted how many veterans are excluded from wartime benefits due to a lack of congressional authorization. In particular, essentially all veterans who fought in Iraq and Afghanistan are considered ineligible for these benefits. The proposed bill would address this problem by expanding the definition of what is considered “wartime,” allowing it to include conflicts that were not specifically authorized by Congress.
What is the Potential Impact?
For an enormous number of veterans, access to wartime benefits would dramatically improve their living situation. In particular, it would make them eligible for a wartime pension if they are disabled, even if their disability is not service-related. It would also make them eligible for certain healthcare benefits, and give their loved ones access to certain survivor’s benefits if they pass away.
What Should You Do?
If you are a disabled veteran, you may be entitled to disability benefits through the VA. However, to be able to successfully access those benefits, you need to speak to a lawyer with experience handling veterans disability applications. They can go over your specific circumstances, and help you get the benefits you deserve.
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.
