Apr 08, 2011
Budget Update:
As of this morning, Congress and the Administration have not reached an agreement to fund the Federal Government for the remainder of FY 2011. If no federal budget or temporary funding agreement is reached, the Federal Government will be forced to curtail nonessential services beginning tonight at 12:01 a.m., April 9. The following is what we have been told will occur should the government shut down:
-- All VA medical centers and clinics will remain open. This is in large part due to the VFW-supported advanced appropriations legislation that became law on Oct. 22, 2009.
-- VFW service officers will be able to enter their offices inside VA facilities and have access to the VA computer system.
-- Disability compensation and pension, survivor and/or education benefits will be paid; however, new claims for disability compensation and pension, survivor and/or education benefits will be accepted but not processed.
-- Previously scheduled Appeals hearings will be held.
-- The National Cemetery Administration will remain open for burials, but there may be some delays.
-- Additional information is available at Veterans Field Guide.
-- DOD will retain the ability and authority to continue to protect vital U.S. interests at home and abroad.
-- Military hospitals and clinics will remain open; however, some elective procedures could be postponed.
-- Military retiree and survivor benefits will be paid; however, new applications for retiree and survivor benefits will be accepted but not processed.
-- Military pay is still being discussed.
The VFW encourages everyone to monitor their local news for additional developments as they occur. In addition, should you wish to make your voice heard directly to Congress, go to http://capwiz.com/vfw/dbq/officials/.
Read the rest of the April 8, 2011 VFW Washington Weekly.