New legislation proposed by Rep. David Valadao, R-Calif., on June 28 aims to push the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to detail its use of automated tools for processing veterans’ benefits claims.

This bill would require the VA to report to Congress on expanding automation tools, with the goal of reducing delays in benefits processing. Within 180 days of enactment, the VA must submit a plan to the House and Senate Veterans’ Affairs committees and continue to report semi-annually. The report must cover the feasibility, benefits, necessary modifications, collaboration efforts, and a timeline for implementing these tools. Rep. Mike Bost, R-Ill., supports the bill, emphasizing its importance for efficient claims processing. VA officials believe automation will improve support for veterans, particularly for PACT Act claims related to exposure to toxic substances. In May, the VA announced it had processed over 1 million PACT Act-related claims using automation tools (Graham, 2024).

References:

Graham, E. (2024, July 2). Lawmakers want VA to report on its use of automation to process benefits claims. Government Executive. https://www.govexec.com/technology/2024/07/lawmakers-want-va-report-its-use-automation-process-benefits-claims/397808/