The Roadmap for VVA's Future

BY TOM BURKE

Details about the plan for VVA’s dissolution, which is being put together by VVA’s Officers, the Legacy Task Force, and others in the organization, were unveiled at the January Board meeting. We expect the Board to approve the plan at its April Board meeting, setting in motion consideration of the plan by the delegates at the National Convention in New Orleans in August.

Important discussions will be had before these pivotal decisions are made. President Jack McManus has put forth a bold vision for the legacy of our organization. I hope you will choose to be a part of this process.

Rather than closing the doors and walking away, VVA will transition into an organization that will continue with our legacy. VVA is not over yet, but when we do see the last sunset, we will go out like an eagle, and VVA will long be remembered in the annals of veterans service organizations.

The upcoming Convention could well be a turning point in VVA’s history. Those elected as officers and board members in New Orleans will lead the organization through the next two critical years. I urge VVA members to consider becoming Convention delegates. Also, make sure that all reports are in and validated before February 28. I recommend that to be on the safe side, you bring copies of your reports to the Convention. That way, if any questions arise, you will be able to answer them on the spot.

Several states are finally going after claim sharks to prevent them from charging veterans for filing disability claims by introducing legislation aimed at restricting the practice. It is illegal under federal law for companies that are not accredited by the VA to charge veterans fees for helping file claims, but there is no criminal penalty for breaking the law.

Attempts to regulate this industry have stalled in Congress. While some state lawmakers try to close the loophole, many lobbyists want the loophole sealed into place at the state level. Maine, New Jersey, and New York recently enacted laws cracking down on for-profits consultants.

I applaud these efforts. Too many times I have seen the failures of the for-profit consulting industry, wasting the valuable time of veterans in need and frequently charging exorbitant fees for those veterans who do succeed in their claims.

The PACT Act was passed by Congress two years ago. It provides for the expansion of veterans benefits for exposure to Agent Orange, toxic burn pits, and toxic exposures to veterans in several conflicts and decades. Millions of veterans may qualify for benefits. This basically creates a cash cow for private consultants who promote promises they may not be able to keep helping veterans get their benefits. Veterans Service Officers from several VSOs, including VVA, provide claims assistance to all veterans free of charge.

Be careful and picky when choosing individuals to handle your claims.

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