New legislation proposed in Washington by U.S. Rep. Rich McCormick (R-GA) would help assist wounded veterans in their medical care. The legislation works to improve transparency, cut through red tape and increase accountability in veterans care. Veterans would be able to more effectively appeal decisions regarding medical separation from service and their entitlement to disability benefits. In addition to McCormick, the bill is sponsored by Representatives Brian Mast (FL), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA), Rick Larsen (WA), and Jimmy Panetta (CA).
McCormick just started this term but serves on the Committee on Armed Services, as well as Foreign Affairs and Science, Space and Technology. He served both in the Marines and in the Navy, as a helicopter pilot in the former and earning the commander in the latter.
“As a doctor and a veteran, the health of the courageous men and women in our Armed Forces is a top priority,” said McCormick. “We cannot allow Washington bureaucrats to drown servicemembers in paperwork and obscure rules while they are trying to heal and care for their families. I am proud to co-sponsor the Wounded Warrior Bill of Rights and serve those who serve our country. Semper Fi!”
Taking on the Veterans Affairs (VA) issue is something that has plagued Washington for decades, with occasional attempts by Congress to make improvements. This effort largely takes aim at the time before service members have finished their time in the military. When a member of the armed service is wounded, a civilian review board at the Department of Defense determines whether they are fit for continued service. If it is determined a servicemember is no longer fit, they are afforded little or no recourse for appeal.
Additionally, another board determines the appropriate benefits for the servicemember. If the servicemember feels the benefits are inadequate or incorrect, again, there is little chance for appeal or reconsideration.
Panetta served in the U.S. Navy Reserve as an intelligence officer from 2003-2011 and served in Afghanistan. He serves on the Committee on Armed Services in addition to the powerful Budget and Ways and Means Committees. “All too often, wounded warriors are forced to deal with multiple layers of bureaucracy during their recovery and potential medical separation from the armed services. Unfortunately, the ambiguous and confusing process leaves limited options for servicemembers when they have to appeal medical evaluation decisions,” said Panetta.
“The Wounded Warrior Bill of Rights Act would return authority to adjudicate appeals to military commanders within each branch, streamlining the process and ensuring transparency as well as accountability. Wounded warriors have sacrificed so much for our country and deserve a fair, straightforward process that respects their service and ensures that they receive their proper disability benefits.”
