Courtesy of Congressman Jimmy Panetta’s Office:
Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-20) and seven fellow veteran Members of Congress sent a letter to Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie, calling for full repayment of benefits owed to veterans under the Forever GI Bill.
The letter follows troubling reports that the Department of Veterans Affairs does not intend to reimburse veterans for underpayment of educational benefits. The lawmakers expressed concern regarding ongoing and persistent delays and continued uncertainty experienced by affected veterans and their families.
“As veterans ourselves, these reports are deeply dismaying to us, and we urge you to work toward a swift solution that will not further jeopardize the educational pursuits, housing, or financial security of veterans and their families,” the group wrote.
“Our nation’s veterans have served our country with honor, often making incredible sacrifices to do so. It is imperative that we also honor our promises to them in return.”
The group also expressed concern over second order losses suffered by the affected veterans and their families, including emotional stress, underserved interest charges and overdraft fees, and educational and professional setbacks.
The full letter can be found here.
The letter was led by Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and signed by Reps. José E. Serrano (D-NY), Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI), Bobby L. Rush (D-IL), Chris Stewart (R-UT), Don Young (R-AK), and Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-VA).
