CONGRESSMAN MOYLAN URGES VA TO WITHDRAW NEW POLICY IMPACTING VETERANS’ DISABILITY CLAIMS

(Washington, D.C.)- Congressman James Moylan has formally urged Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins to withdraw the Department of Veterans Affairs' interim final rule that took effect on February 17, 2026, changing how disability evaluations are determined when a veteran is taking medication or receiving treatment.

Under the new regulation, disability ratings for new claims and requests for increased ratings are based on how a veteran functions while taking medication or receiving treatment. If those interventions reduce symptoms, that reduced level of impairment may be reflected in the disability rating. The change does not affect veterans with an established disability rating, but it does apply to existing pending claims, including those from veterans in Guam.

In a letter to Secretary Collins, the Congressman called on the VA to withdraw the interim final rule to ensure veterans are not placed at a disadvantage.

"I strongly oppose any policy that risks lowering or undervaluing the compensation our veterans earned through their service,"said Congressman Moylan. "Veterans who responsibly manage their health should not face unintended consequences in the benefits process."

Congressman Moylan emphasized that veterans should not delay medical care or avoid filing claims because of this change.

"I encourage veterans to continue seeking treatment and to file claims as appropriate,"he stated. "No veteran should hesitate to get care out of concern about how their condition will be evaluated. My office remains committed to advocating for fair treatment and standing with our veteran community."

Veterans who have questions or need assistance may contact Congressman Moylan's District Office at (671) 922-6673.

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