Also, there were two big surprises found in the Question and Answer document. "QUESTION: Why is this study being conducted now? ANSWER: Over the next two years, the [VA] Secretary and the Veterans ' Disability Benefits Commission (VDBC) is (sic) closely examining compensation for all health conditions, including PTSD. "
Surprise number one is that the VA has not announced that Secretary Nicholson is examining compensation "for ALL health conditions. " Veterans can only look forward to fewer benefits and lower compensation with Nicholson directing this endeavor.
The second surprise is Secretary Nicholson 's mention of the VDBC. The VDBC, by law, is "independent of the Department of Veterans ' Affairs. " However, to discover that they are coordinating their efforts should not be a surprise. The VDBC is made up of 13 members who are currently studying all areas of VA compensation. Nine VDBC members were appointed by Republicans. Secretary Nicholson was appointed by President Bush.
Then there is the matter of timing. The VDBC 's charter stipulates that their reports must be done by October of 2006. But, the VDBC has also contracted with the IOM for studies that will not be complete for at least a year. They will be asking for an extension. This means that the VDBC reports from IOM and the VA reports from IOM will be released at the same time, well AFTER the 2006 elections. I don 't believe in coincidence.
Sometime in early 2007, after the elections, VA Secretary Jim Nicholson will be armed with reports from the VDBC and the VA 's IOM studies. Expect a two-fisted attack on veterans ' benefits and compensation from an administration that is the first to shout "Support Our Troops " ...until they become veterans.
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