Below is a statement from local Congresswoman Kirsten Gillibrand, a Member of the Armed Services Committee, regarding the recently released report from the Veterans' Disability Benefits Commission. 

"The Commission's recommendations provide the Congress with a blueprint to bring our veterans' benefit system in line with our current and future needs. I want to thank General Scott for his leadership, and the rest of the Commission for their very hard work in putting together these recommendations.  In particular, I was encouraged by their recommendations regarding the issue of "Concurrent Receipt, which prohibits many of our disabled veterans from receiving their service benefits." 

"I consistently hear from my constituents about the many obstacles that they have to endure in claims processing.  I believe that these recommendations will help ease the transition from active duty to veteran, reducing the backlog in claims adjudication and meeting the ultimate goal of the Veterans Administration, improving quality of life for the men and women who bravely served this great nation."
 
"Earlier this year I was proud to vote in support of the largest increase for veterans funding in American history. This funding is necessary to address past inadequacies and to meet the needs of a whole new generation of veterans returning from duties overseas. With increased oversight and funding to strengthen these facilities, we can provide the best available care for our veterans."

"In Congress, I will continue to work to ensure our veterans get the care and respect they deserve. For too long veterans funding has been shortchanged leading to massive nationwide failures to provide them adequate services. Our heroes deserve better."

 
The Veterans' Disability Benefits Commission, was established by the Congress in the 2004 National Defense Authorization Act, and signed into law by the President.  Under the leadership of the Retired General James Terry Scott, the thirteen member independent commission spent two years conducting an in-depth analysis of the benefits and services available to veterans, service members, their survivors and their families relating to disability benefits.   

# # #