Maryland Dems Back Federal Workers in Shutdowns; VA Acknowledges Claim Errors
Maryland Democrats are stepping up to support federal employees during government shutdowns. They're introducing legislation to provide unemployment benefits to essential civilian workers required to work without pay. Meanwhile, a Philadelphia VA employee's rapid claim approvals have raised concerns about errors and improper payments.
The proposed 'Help Federal Employees During Shutdowns Act' aims to offer a safety net for federal civilian employees deemed essential during shutdowns. These workers, who must continue to serve the public despite the lack of funding, would be able to apply for unemployment insurance under this act.
In Philadelphia, a senior veterans service representative at the VA Regional Office has been making headlines for their claim approval speed. Approving claims at an average of 4.7 minutes each, compared to the national average of 21 minutes, this employee significantly contributed to the office's annual claims completions goal, accounting for over 35% each year. However, a recent audit found that at least 84% of this employee's approvals in the first half of 2024 contained errors, leading to an estimated $2.2 million in improper payments. The VA's inspector general confirmed that thousands of disability benefit claims were approved without proper reviews.
During the 2018-2019 partial government shutdown, approximately 420,000 federal employees were required to work without pay, highlighting the need for measures like the proposed legislation in Maryland.
The 'Help Federal Employees During Shutdowns Act' seeks to provide financial relief to essential federal civilian employees during government shutdowns. Meanwhile, the VA is addressing concerns about improper payments following a Philadelphia employee's rapid claim approvals. The legislation and the VA's response reflect efforts to support federal workers and ensure the integrity of benefit claims.
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