FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — The Department of Veterans Affairs is walking back a new rule that would have changed how disability payments are determined.
It came after widespread outrage from multiple veterans groups.
John Schuler served in the Army for 25 years. For the 73-year-old veteran, his VA disability benefits are a matter of life or death.
“I got crushed coming back from Bosnia. I got crushed by a railcar. It shattered my whole pelvis and broke my back,” says Schuler.
Schuler is among nearly 50,000 vets living in Fresno County, many of whom rely on disability benefits determined by the Department of Veterans Affairs in a process that can take years.
On Tuesday, the agency announced a new rule: a veteran’s disability level would be based on how well they function while on medication, rather than the impairment itself.
“It causes a veteran to decide whether they should be taking their medication or their livelihood, if they depend on the compensation coming in every month,” says Kyle Pennington, Veterans Service Officer for Fresno County.
The change sparked immediate outrage and fear.
The Fresno County Veterans Service Office says they were inundated with calls.
“It was immediate concern, confusion and really wondering what it means,” says Eric Ornelas, Veterans’ Service Representative.
In a post on X Thursday, he wrote, “To alleviate these concerns, (the) VA will continue to collect public comments regarding the rule, but it will not be enforced at any time in the future.”
Irania Linares served in the Army for 10 years. She wants the VA to know their decisions have real consequences.
“We have people who jumped out of airplanes who were repealing out of helicopters. They have a lot of things that stop them from day-to-day activities, from picking up their kids, walking long distances, or standing in lines,” says Linares.
“The price of freedom is visible here.”
That message sits outside the front doors of the VA hospital in Fresno, a reminder of the physical sacrifices made by veterans.
“If you’re willing to give your life for your country, at least your country can take care of you when you come home,” says Schuler.
By ABC30’s Brisa Colón
