Veteran Fraud Reimbursement Act

Floor Speech

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I thank Chairman Bost for yielding me time to speak.

I rise in strong support of H.R. 4016, the Veteran Fraud Reimbursement Act. This bipartisan piece of legislation, introduced by Representative Ciscomani and Representative Connolly, aims to enhance the repayment process by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for misappropriated benefits.

Our veterans have selflessly served our Nation with honor and courage, and it is our duty to ensure they receive the benefits they rightly deserve and have earned. However, instances of misappropriation of veterans' benefits are a grave injustice that cannot be tolerated. This bill addresses this issue head-on by instituting crucial reforms to ensure that our veterans are promptly reimbursed for any benefits misappropriated by their fiduciaries.

Under this proposed legislation, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs is mandated to reissue benefits to veterans in cases where they are defrauded of their benefits. Additionally, the Secretary must make a good faith effort to recoup misused funds from the responsible fiduciaries, thereby holding them accountable for their actions.

As a 24-year military veteran, I would also like to state that this bill ensures that veterans are not unduly penalized due to delays in determining negligence and guarantees that they receive their benefits owed to them in a timely manner. We cannot turn a blind eye to the injustices faced by our veterans.

By supporting H.R. 4016, we demonstrate our unwavering commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of those who have bravely served our country.

Madam Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to join me in supporting this crucial legislation and standing up for our veterans.

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