Titus’ veterans benefits bill wins initial support

Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nev., has won subcommittee backing for her bill to expedite benefit payments for veterans.

The measure would require the Department of Veterans Administration to pay benefits as each component of their overall claim is reviewed. Under the current system, the VA doesn’t pay benefits until the entire claim is completed and processed.

She said the average claim for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans contains more than eight components and each of those medical conditions must be reviewed individually.

Titus said those who served the country deserve to get their benefits in a timely manner.

The so-called “Pay and You Rate Act” should reduce the backlog of benefit claims and provide veterans and their families much needed financial support.

The subcommittee vote sends the measure to the full Committee on Veterans Affairs.