WASHINGTON — Congressman James Moylan has joined Congressman James Walkinshaw of Virginia in introducing the Streamline Upgrades for Veterans Act, bipartisan legislation aimed at reducing delays in the military discharge review process for veterans seeking to upgrade their discharge status.
The bill focuses specifically on veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury, conditions that frequently affect discharge status and access to earned benefits. Under the legislation, staffing levels at military discharge review boards would be maintained through 2030. The Department of Defense would also be required to report to Congress on processing timelines and provide recommendations to improve efficiency, with a public summary made available for transparency.
Moylan said the bill is particularly important for veterans in Guam and across the Pacific, who often face additional barriers accessing federal resources.
“Our veterans should never have to fight another battle just to receive the benefits they earned through their service,” Moylan said. “When delays stretch into years, especially for those suffering from PTSD and traumatic brain injuries, the system is failing them. This bill takes a critical step toward accountability, transparency, and faster decisions for those who need it most.”
Walkinshaw said the review system must be fixed for all veterans carrying the effects of trauma and invisible wounds.
“Veterans answered the call to serve our country, and it is our responsibility to make sure the system works for them when they come home,” Walkinshaw said.
Discharge status determines veteran access to healthcare, housing assistance and educational opportunities. Longstanding delays and administrative barriers have made the review process difficult to navigate for many who have served.
