Letter to the Hon. Michael Missal, Inspector General for the Department of Veteran Affairs - Following Delayed Payments to Veterans, Bennet Calls for Inspector General Investigation

Letter

Dear Mr. Missal:

I write to request an investigation into issues related to delayed payments from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to veterans receiving Post 9/11 G.I. Bill benefits. Specifically, I am concerned about conflicting reports regarding the VA's commitment to make retroactive payments to veterans for missed or underpaid housing stipends. Such ambiguity about education benefits is a disservice to those who have served our country.

I ask that you investigate the VA's capability and willingness to carry out the law. This should include an analysis of whether veterans are receiving proper levels of housing allowance, as provided under the Harry W. Colmery Veterans Education Assistance Act (P.L. 115-48, the "Forever GI Bill"). Additionally, this should include an analysis of what led to the delays. Such information will be useful to continued congressional oversight of this critical issue.

I thank you for your consideration of this time sensitive matter and I look forward to your response. Thank you for your work on behalf of our nation's veterans.

Source