WC Wisconsin News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) and Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH) introduced the Expedited Equitable Relief Act, which aims to address administrative errors at Veterans Affairs (VA) by ensuring timely and fair relief for veterans, their dependents, and beneficiaries.

The legislation, prompted by a constituent's experience, seeks to expedite the resolution of such errors within 120 days of identification. Congressman Van Orden took action after Kimberly Mozuch faced significant debt due to a VA administrative error. He worked with the Tomah VA Medical Center to cancel the debt and has escalated the issue to higher VA authorities.

"We have a duty to take care of our veterans," emphasized Congressman Van Orden. He further stated that the Act "will ensure that no one else will be held accountable for VA’s errors besides VA and that they must rectify those mistakes in a timely manner."

Congressman Pappas echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of quick relief for veterans and their families. "Veterans and their families should never face prolonged financial stress from administrative errors at VA," he stated. Pappas expressed his pleasure in collaborating with Congressman Van Orden on the bipartisan legislation to reform VA processes for providing swift relief to those impacted.

The Expedited Equitable Relief Act underscores the commitment to honoring and supporting those who have served the nation. By addressing and rectifying administrative errors promptly, the Act aims to alleviate financial burdens on veterans and their families.

For those interested in reviewing the full text of the bill, it is available for access.