In 2024, the Veterans’ Health Care Eligibility Reform Act of 1996 accounted for nearly $120 billion in government funds despite its appropriations being authorized through 1998

Summary

Vivek Ramaswamy, recently appointed to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has proposed defunding federal programs that lack current congressional authorization.

This could affect programs like veterans’ healthcare, NASA, and early education initiatives, which still receive funding despite expired authorizations.

Ramaswamy argues that cutting these programs could save billions, and he’s committed to targeting expenditures that “don’t advance the interests of American citizens.”

DOGE, co-led by Elon Musk, aims to curb government spending, with Musk estimating potential cuts of up to $2 trillion.

  • FoxyFerengi@lemm.ee
    191·
    4 days ago

    I’m a 100% disabled veteran. Two years ago I made the very stupid decision to change my gender identity with the VA, and my therapist just informed me on Friday that I can’t change it back because it’s part of a diagnosis. I’m really worried that either of those things, or the fact that I’m getting a degree through chapter 31 will end in a reduction or revocation of my benefits. In addition, I’m going through the process of getting diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder. I’m really expensive for the VA right now.

    Fun fact: ALS is more common in the veteran population

      • FoxyFerengi@lemm.ee
        5·
        3 days ago

        I hope you can stay safe through this. My state is pretty good to veterans, but I don’t think it would pick up the slack if federal funding is slashed.

          • AquaTofana@lemmy.world
            2·
            2 days ago

            Also in Texas, also desperate to leave, but currently still Active Duty. I hope you get somewhere safe, not because I think you should have to, but because this state is a literal fucking hellhole for anyone not straight, white, and Christian.

            God speed and safe travels, my friend.

            • fadingembers@lemmy.blahaj.zoneEnglish
              2·
              23 hours ago

              Thank you. It’s so legitimately frightening and trying to plan to move across the country is not easy.
              Are you able to put in a transfer request to be stationed somewhere else? I never got transferred while I was in but I heard about some soldiers that did that back in the day.