H.R.984 - To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide timely equitable relief to an individual who suffers a loss based on an administrative error by the Secretary, and for other purposes. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 984 aims to amend Title 38 of the United States Code, mandating the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide timely equitable relief to individuals who have suffered losses due to administrative errors by the Department. The bill also requires the Secretary to promptly cancel any debt collection agreements with third-party collectors if the underlying debt determination is found to be erroneous. This legislation seeks to ensure that veterans are not unduly burdened by bureaucratic mistakes and receive timely compensation for any resulting harm.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely result in a more streamlined and responsive process for addressing administrative errors within the Department of Veterans Affairs. It will also prevent veterans from being subjected to debt collection activities based on incorrect debt determinations. Ultimately, this should reduce financial burdens on veterans caused by administrative errors.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures veterans receive timely relief (within 120 days) for losses caused by VA administrative errors.
- Protects veterans from erroneous debt collection by requiring cancellation of related agreements.
- Potentially reduces stress and financial hardship for veterans affected by VA errors.
- Promotes greater accountability and accuracy within the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- May improve the overall perception of fairness and responsiveness of the VA.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could potentially increase administrative burden on the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- May lead to increased costs associated with processing claims and providing relief.
- Potential for fraudulent claims seeking relief for non-existent or exaggerated errors.
- Possible delays in other VA services due to increased focus on error correction.
- The 120-day timeframe may still be insufficient for complex cases.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it seeks to provide support and relief to veterans who have served the nation. Specifically, it falls under Congress's power to legislate for the benefit of the military and those who have served, as outlined in Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to "provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States."
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).