Pasco Reporter

Representatives Gus Bilirakis and Morgan McGarvey have reintroduced the Board of Veterans’ Appeals Attorney Retention and Backlog Reduction Act. This legislation aims to help the Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA) address a significant backlog of 200,000 cases by improving recruitment and retention of staff. The bill is set for discussion in the Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs Subcommittee this Wednesday.

Rep. Bilirakis highlighted the importance of addressing BVA performance issues, stating, “Too often, the Board of Veterans Appeals (BVA) continues to be a roadblock for timely processing of VA claims.” He emphasized that the backlog delays veterans from receiving benefits they deserve and that the bill aims to create parity between BVA and other federal agencies.

Rep. McGarvey also expressed support for the legislation, noting its significance for veterans in Louisville: “Over 30,000 veterans call Louisville home. They deserve a speedy and efficient VA, especially when appealing a denied claim.” He underscored his commitment to providing BVA with necessary tools to tackle the claims backlog.

Douglas Massey, President of AFGE Local 17 representing BVA attorneys, praised the initiative: “This critical legislation will both raise the career ladder of the dedicated board attorneys who diligently process veterans' appeals and will improve recruitment and retention.”

The BVA handles appeals on veteran benefits such as disability compensation. Despite progress, it struggles with staff turnover attributed to lower pay compared to other agencies. The proposed act would increase promotion potential for non-supervisory BVA attorneys by about $10,000 to enhance recruitment efforts.