The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has proposed a new grant program to assist veterans and former service members in upgrading their military discharge status and accessing VA benefits. This initiative aims to fund entities that provide legal support, helping veterans improve their military records or seek a review before correction boards.

The program's goal is to increase access to various VA programs and benefits, including compensation, pension, education, health care, loans, national cemetery matters, and character of discharge determinations.

VA Secretary Denis McDonough emphasized the administration's commitment: “We encourage former service members with other than honorable discharges to apply for VA care and benefits today. Although VA cannot change your discharge status, we want to provide you with any health care or benefits we can — and we will work with you every step of the way to do exactly that.” He also noted the importance of legal support in navigating the complex review processes.

This proposal is part of ongoing efforts by the VA and the Biden-Harris Administration to support former service members who faced discrimination or other challenges during their military service. Earlier this year, regulations were amended to ensure services are available to deserving individuals who had been previously found ineligible.

Over the past decade, VA has granted eligibility to 75% of former service members with other-than-honorable discharge statuses, amounting to over 57,000 individuals. Legal assistance is seen as crucial for these veterans in accessing necessary reviews and determinations.

Additionally, VA’s Legal Services for Homeless Veterans and Veterans At-Risk for Homelessness Grant Program recently allocated $11.5 million in grants to 79 organizations.

The rulemaking process can be viewed on the Federal Register under public inspection from October 2, 2024. The notice of funding opportunity will follow after the final rule publication.