Moylan pushes back on VA rule

Guam congressman James Moylan is urging the US Department of Veterans Affairs to withdraw a new policy he says could negatively impact disability claims. The interim final rule, which took effect February 17, changes how the VA evaluates disability ratings for veterans who are taking medication or receiving treatment.

Under the new regulation, ratings for new claims and requests for increases would be based on how a veteran functions while under treatment — meaning if symptoms are reduced by medication, that lower level of impairment could be reflected in the final rating.

Moylan says the change risks undervaluing the compensation veterans have earned through their service. In a letter to VA Secretary Doug Collins, he argues the rule contradicts a recent court decision that states the beneficial effects of medication should not be considered when determining certain disability ratings.

The congressman is calling on the VA to withdraw the rule and work with Congress and veterans to find a better path forward.

He also encourages veterans not to delay medical care or avoid filing claims out of concern over the policy change.