Representatives Dina Titus (NV-01) and Steven Horsford (NV-04) today introduced legislation to increase the efficiency of the VA benefits claims process and reduce the existing backlog. In an effort to address VA regional offices’ struggles with the training and retention of claims processors, this bill would establish a task force to identify key skills needed and develop a strategic plan for training members of the VA with these skills. This would help VA Regional Offices more efficiently and effectively handle the one million claims currently awaiting adjudication.

The task force would include the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the Director of the Office of Personnel Management, the Commissioner of Social Security, frontline employees of the VA, as well as any additional representatives of veteran organizations selected by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

"I've spoken with veterans across Southern Nevada and have heard their frustrations with the VA benefits claim process," said Rep. Titus, Ranking Member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs. "Those who bravely serve our country deserve to receive the benefits they've earned in a timely manner. That’s why I’m proud to introduce a bill that would improve the efficiency and expediency of the claims process, and reduce the backlog that plagues the system.”

“Our veterans have put everything on the line and they deserve the best care we can possibly give them when they return home,” said Rep. Horsford. “This bill will increase VA responsiveness by forming a task force to improve skills for those handling veterans’ claims and deliver to our brave men and women who have served in the military the quality of care that we owe to them. The current backlog is unacceptable, and we need to find solutions that will speed the claims process along. I believe that this legislation is critical to the well-being of Nevada veterans and I will work tirelessly to ensure that the VA responds to their needs in a timely manner.”