Antelope Valley Today

Congressman Mike Garcia (CA-27) has introduced the Veterans Benefits Continuity and Accountability Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2024. This legislation aims to address a $2.883 billion budget shortfall at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), which could disrupt benefits for over 7 million veterans due to fiscal mismanagement within the VA.

The bill seeks to provide necessary supplemental funding, implement rigorous oversight measures, and ensure that veterans' benefits are safeguarded. The legislation has garnered support from various organizations nationwide, including several from CA-27.

Pat Murray, Legislative Director of Veterans of Foreign Wars, emphasized the importance of timely payments for veterans: “Veterans should not have to pay the price for budgetary miscalculations. The VFW is grateful that Representatives Garcia, Cole, Carter, Valadao, and Bost have stepped up to provide a solution to this problem.”

Jim Zenner, Director of Military and Veterans Affairs in Los Angeles County, highlighted the impact on local veterans: “More than 68,000 veterans in the County of Los Angeles are at risk of not receiving the benefits they rely on.”

Jose Ramos from Wounded Warrior Project stressed financial security: "Veterans should never have their financial security put at risk by late payments from the Department of Veterans Affairs."

Dr. Jennifer Zellet from Antelope Valley Community College District noted the threat to student-veterans' education: “Our Student Veterans rely on their GI Bill benefits to pursue their education and right now, those benefits are under threat.”

Dr. David Andrus from College of the Canyons mentioned potential interruptions in students’ education due to delayed benefit payments.

James McCormick from Vietnam Veterans of America urged representatives to support this critical legislation.

Joe Chenelly from AMVETS called for accountability within VA spending: “Funding and benefit gaps are unacceptable… Congress must continue to hold the VA accountable for excessive spending.”

Sarah Verardo from The Independence Fund warned about potential disruptions in disability compensation affecting families living without margin.

James A. LaCoursiere from The American Legion called for swift Congressional action: "Further postponement will erode trust in our government and exacerbate financial hardship faced by our veteran community."

Sarah Shriver Smothers from Concerned Veterans for America pointed out the need for robust oversight at VA’s budget process.

Heather Ansley from Paralyzed Veterans of America reiterated Congress's obligation to ensure timely delivery of earned VA benefits.

Gary Ginsburg from Jewish War Veterans echoed support for mandatory funding to avoid delays in disability compensation and other benefits.

Rep. Garcia’s bill aims not only to cover immediate funding needs but also incorporates measures designed to prevent future fiscal mismanagement within the VA.

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