Veterans buck trend as jobless rates dip below national average
The development comes despite a cratering labor market for blue-collar jobs.
Pentagon & Congress
Pick to lead VA benefits work faces criticism over reform proposals
Several Democratic lawmakers argued nominee Karen Brazell’s non-answers about the potential for benefits eligibility changes should be disqualifying.
Lawmakers push for cost-of-living boost in veterans benefits next year
Legislation introduced in the Senate would guarantee a cost-of-living boost in veterans benefits in 2025.
Defense, VA budget work begins on Capitol Hill as Congress returns
Defense and veterans hearings on Capitol Hill for the week of April 8, 2024.
Deployed troops inhaled toxic air even while off-duty, study finds
Lung samples from service members they tested found traces of toxic vaporized metals and other hazardous items, well above that of non-deployed personnel.
Court OKs lawsuit accusing VA of discrimination in disability claims
A federal judge rejected a government request to throw out a lawsuit accusing Veterans Affairs officials of discriminatory practices in disability claims.
Hip replacements, other orthopedic devices not properly tracked by VA
A watchdog warned that VA medical officials may not be able to respond to problems with implantable medical devices because of poor tracking systems.
Nearly 250,000 veterans to receive payouts in 3M earplug settlement
Veterans involved in the lawsuit will see payouts between now and 2029.
VA patient numbers jump after efforts to improve medical access
Veterans Affairs medical sites saw their patient numbers spike after a five-month effort to improve access and delivery of health care.
Fight over VA toxic exposure funds could stall other vets legislation
Lawmakers are sparring over proposed changes to a fund covering the costs of veterans' toxic exposure benefits.
Outgoing WWP leader sees continued strain on vets, but more support
Mike Linnington leaves Wounded Warrior Project after eight years of dramatic improvements for injured veterans, but numerous challenges remain.
