Rep. Panetta Leads Bipartisan Bill to Expedite Disability Claims for Veterans Impacted by Major Disasters

Monterey CA - United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) reintroduced bipartisan legislation to better support disabled veterans impacted by major disasters with expedited claims assistance. The Priority Response for Veterans Impacted by Disasters and Emergencies (PROVIDE) Act would ensure that any veteran with a claim pending with VA who has been impacted by a natural disaster will be guaranteed expedited processing and establish flexible evidence requirements for veterans who have damaged or destroyed documents.

Unlike other federal agencies, natural disasters do not currently fall into an expedite category for the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and evidence requirements for disability claims fail to consider the destruction of property. The PROVIDE Act would ensure that any veteran with a claim pending with VA who has been impacted by a natural disaster will be guaranteed expedited processing.

"In the wake of a major disasters, veterans should not have to also worry about receiving the care they have earned," said Rep. Panetta. "The PROVIDE Act would ensure that veterans who are processing already complex disability claims receive tailored support during these times of crisis. Through expedited service and flexibility for veterans, we are not only helping our communities recover but upholding our commitment to serve all those who have served our nation."

This legislation was co-introduced by Representatives Clay Higgins (R-LA) and Ted Lieu (D-CA).

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