The President’s vision for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is to transform VA into a 21st Century organization that is Veteran–centric, results–driven, and forward–looking. The Department’s resource request for 2010 is nearly $113 billion–up $15.1 billion, or 15 percent, from the 2009 enacted budget. This is the largest one–year percentage increase for VA requested by a President in over 30 years. VA’s budget request for 2010 provides the resources critical to achieving the President’s vision – Read more about it here!

The Post–9⁄11 GI Bill
We are now accepting applications for the Post–9⁄11 GI Bill benefit that is effective August 1, 2009. Individuals with active duty service since September 11, 2001, may be eligible for this benefit and can apply on–line at www.GIBILL.VA.gov. The program provides tuition assistance, a housing allowance, a books and supplies stipend, and the option to transfer these benefits to family members under certain circumstances. For more information, visit the GI Bill website or call 1–888–GIBILL–1 (1–888–442–4551).

VA Progress Report
President Obama’s charter to transform the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) into a 21st Century organization has instilled new purpose and urgency within VA. We have reorganized the Office of the Secretary to ensure unified direction. We have instituted numerous practices and policies to strengthen ethical behavior, increase transparency, create accountability, and improve services to Veterans. (full report)

Veterans seeking information about their rights under the proposed settlement of the court case involving the May 3, 2006, theft of computer equipment from the home of a former VA employee can visit www.VeteransClass.com for more information.