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Veterans' Benefits: Proving Eligibility Without Lost Government Records.

This Act makes it easier for veterans to claim benefits if their official military or medical records were damaged or lost while in government custody. The VA Secretary can now determine eligibility solely based on alternative evidence, such as statements from fellow service members or early medical exams. This change also removes certain limitations on the effective date of benefit awards, potentially allowing for greater retroactive payments.
Key points
Veterans can prove benefit eligibility using alternative evidence (like "buddy statements" or early medical exams) when official records are missing due to government loss.
The law mandates the VA to establish rules for accepting these alternative forms of evidence within one year.
It removes restrictions on the effective date of benefit awards, potentially increasing the amount of retroactive compensation for affected veterans.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_3452
Sponsor: Sen. Tester, Jon [D-MT]
Process start date: 2023-12-07
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Fred Hamilton Veterans' Lost Records Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_3452.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-12-07.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Veterans can prove benefit eligibility using alternative evidence (like "buddy statements" or early medical exams) when official records are missing due to government loss.
  • The law mandates the VA to establish rules for accepting these alternative forms of evidence within one year.
  • It removes restrictions on the effective date of benefit awards, potentially increasing the amount of retroactive compensation for affected veterans.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Tester, Jon [D-MT].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Benefits