Congresswoman Linda Sánchez (CA-39) today released the following statement after the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) issued a report detailing unacceptable hardships local veterans are experiencing at the Veterans Affairs' (VA) Regional Office in Los Angeles. The report cites gross mismanagement and a lack of proper training of staff as the leading reasons local veterans are experiencing extreme delays in the processing of benefits claims, as well as a high error rate in disability evaluations.
"Today's findings are troubling and unacceptable. Our veterans have sacrificed so much to defend and protect our country. We must keep our promise to ensure they have the best care and benefits here at home.
"The lack of accurate and timely processing of benefit claims poses a significant burden on our veterans, and puts their health at risk. I have been monitoring this issue as a member of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, and these concerns must be addressed immediately.
"The Los Angeles Regional Office must take prompt action to provide our veterans the very best benefit services. I look forward to working with the VA to make sure the Regional Office in Los Angeles improves management oversight and fully trains all staff members so that all benefit claims are processed quickly and accurately. Our veterans deserve better than the treatment outlined in this report."
Background
Congresswoman Sánchez currently serves on the House Veterans' Affairs Committee. To view a copy of the Office of Inspector General's full report, "Inspections of the California VA Regional Offices", click here.