VA Halts Controversial Disability Rating Rule Following Backlash from Veterans Groups
In a significant move, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has decided to pause the implementation of a recently announced rule that could have lowered disability ratings for millions of veterans based on their medication status. The decision comes after widespread outrage and pushback from veteran advocacy groups, including the VFW and the Legion, who expressed concerns that the rule would unfairly cut benefits. This controversial policy change was intended to tie disability ratings more closely to the improvement of symptoms through medication. However, following intense scrutiny and calls for rescission from lawmakers, including Senator Duckworth and Senator Rosen, the VA has chosen to halt enforcement just days after its announcement. This move reflects the ongoing tension over veteran benefits and the challenges posed by new federal rules affecting those who have served.
DAV : Disabled American Veterans, CNN, Military.com, Slate Magazine, The American Legion, Military Times, Rolling Stone, The Hill, "Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs (.gov)", The Washington Post