FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: OCTOBER 2, 2002
CONTACT: LINDA MACIAS/PAUL TODD (202) 225-6161

Baca Introduces Legislation to Reduce Backlog of Veterans'
Benefits Claims

Bill Would Keep Promise to America's Vets

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Representative Joe Baca (D-Rialto) today introduced legislation that would benefit thousands of our nation's veterans who have pending claims for federal benefits. There are currently over 25 million veterans in America, many of whom are over the age of 70 years old. Over 500,000 veterans have pending claims for federal benefits, 100,000 of which have been in the system for over a year without resolution.

"As a nation we have an obligation to provide the benefits and services that our veterans have earned through their honorable service," Baca said. "That is why I'm introducing the Department of Veterans Affairs Claims Backlog Reduction Act of 2002. It will tell our veterans that a promise made is a promise kept."

The bill would require the Department to refer old claims to the nearest county Veterans Service Officers Office (CVSO). Once the CVSO receives the claim, the bill would require the CVSO officer to make personal contact with the veteran, dependent, or spouse and develop the claim. The CVSO would then submit the claim to the Department indicating that the claim is ready to be dispensed with. Allowing the CVSO to date stamp and develop the claim, the claims process would be streamlined, allowing the veteran's, dependent's, or spouses claim to be processed more efficiently. With more efficient processing would come reduction of the claims backlog.

"I am working with the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers (NACVSO) to reduce the backlog of claims that is hurting our veterans," Baca said. "NACVSO includes 2,400 people in 37 states, and they stand ready to help in this endeavor."

"During this time of war, it is even more crucial to properly recognize those who sacrificed their lives in defense of our nation. We have always been able to count on the men and women of great courage who serve in our armed forces, and now they should be able to count on us."

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