Legislation Introduced To Preserve 48-Hour Claims Review
Representatives Colin Allred (D-TX) and John Hagedorn(R-MN) introduced VFW-supported H.R. 7443, The Veterans Claims Transparency Act. This important legislation would reinstate the VA’s former policy of permitting veterans Service Officers to review claims decisions within the,48-hours preceding promulgation to ensure all claims were properly evaluated and are error-free prior to a veteran receiving notification of a rating decision. The VFW thanks Representatives Allred and Hagedorn for introducing this important legislation, which would rightfully reinstate the 48-hour review policy.
House Holds Hearing On VA Character Of Discharge Determination
Last Wednesday, the House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs held a hearing on the VA’s character of discharge determination process. In order to receive benefits from VA, the character of a veteran’s discharge from military service must be under other than dishonorable conditions. For veterans who receive an other-than-honorable discharge, VA should examine the character of the veteran’s discharge to determine benefits eligibility.
VA Reinstates In-Person Services At 100+ Hospitals
The VA announced more than 100 VA medical facilities have reinstated at least one in-person service within their direct healthcare delivery system after certain services were temporarily on hold or reduced due to the COVID-19 pandemic. VA leadership reviews and considers many factors daily, including community infection rates, to determine when it is safe for a facility to expand services. Changes have been made to VA spaces to help people maintain at least six feet of distance as well as requiring everyone who enters a VA facility to wear a cloth face covering. “We will continue to provide a safe environment for both veterans and employees,” Secretary Robert Wilkie said.
Military Sexual Harassment And Assaults Survivors Share Experiences
In the wake of the confirmed death of Army Specialist Vanessa Guillen, the #Iam VanessaGuillen hashtag on social media has empowered service women and women veterans to share their experiences of military sexual harassment and assault. Also shared are similar themes of frustration with the chain of command and deeply rooted culture. Martina Chesonis, an officer in the Air Force Reserve said, “You know if it’s not you. It’s one of your peers who have experienced it.” Almost 90 lawmakers called for an investigation into Guillen’s disappearance and death by the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General.
COVID-19 Antibody Testing Available With Blood Donations
For a limited time, the American Red Cross will provide free COVID-19 antibody testing for all blood, platelet and plasma donations. The antibody test is intended to determine whether your immune system has responded to the COVID-19 infection, not to diagnose illness. The Red Cross strongly urges healthy, eligible individuals who are feeling well to give blood to help maintain a sufficient supply for those battling COVID-19, other infections, and trauma victims. Please schedule an appointment by using the Red Cross Donor app, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 800-733-2767).
Attention!, Attention!
Now Hear this. We at the VFW Post 561, Farmingdale hope all of you are safe from the virus. We have been helping feed the first responders by delivering food to their homes. If anyone needs additional aid, please call our “Officer of The Day” Bob Fullam at 516-694-5539 or email him at vfwbob516@aol.com.
