Metro East Sun

Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-Wis.), Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity, addressed concerns about the Department of Veterans Affairs' Veteran Readiness and Employment program (VR&E) during an oversight hearing. The program is designed to assist veterans with service-connected disabilities in gaining employment or living independently.

Van Orden emphasized the importance of VR&E, stating it "is more than just a benefits program; it is also a vital first step for disabled veterans to become more financially independent." However, he expressed concern over potential issues within the program, noting that his team has been investigating VR&E for possible fraud, waste, and abuse. They conducted site visits to various locations including Detroit and San Diego.

The investigation revealed increasing wait times and burdens on counselors due to higher caseloads. Van Orden highlighted cases where veterans have been in the program for extended periods and received substantial benefit payments. He cited examples such as a veteran in Boston who spent over $350,000 in 18 months and another in Los Angeles who spent $895,000 over six years.

Van Orden criticized the VA's approval of entitlement extensions beyond the mandated 48-month limit for VR&E recipients. "VA told the Committee last month that since Fiscal Year 2024, 62,355 extensions were approved," he noted.

He also raised concerns about long wait times for veterans to meet with counselors. In some regions like San Diego and Albuquerque, wait times exceed 100 days. Additionally, nearly half of VR&E participants reenter the program after completion.

The chairman pointed out that some veterans are using VR&E as a means to supplement income before receiving retirement benefits. He urged reforms to address these issues and prevent future crises as VA projects an increase in VR&E participants by 2028.

Van Orden acknowledged recent efforts by VA with their new IT project but remained skeptical about its effectiveness given past failures. He concluded by stressing accountability from both current administration officials and his colleagues on addressing these challenges within VR&E.