1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

Congress, I am writing to express my strong opposition and deep concern regarding the Department of Veterans Affairs’ newly implemented rule titled “Evaluative Rating: Impact of Medication.” This rule, which became effective on February 17, 2026, fundamentally changes how disability ratings are determined by requiring the VA to base compensation on how well a veteran functions while on medication, rather than on the underlying severity of the service‑connected condition itself.  stripes.com As a constituent, I believe this policy is not only misguided but potentially dangerous. It threatens to undermine decades of progress in supporting veterans who live with chronic, service‑related medical and mental health conditions. Why This Rule Is Harmful to Veterans 1. It artificially lowers disability ratings and compensation Veterans’ organizations, including Disabled American Veterans, have already sounded the alarm that this rule will reduce disability ratings for countless veterans whose conditions are only managed, not cured, by medication. The VA’s approach ignores the reality that medication often masks symptoms temporarily but does not eliminate the underlying impairment.  stripes.com 2. It creates a dangerous incentive to stop taking medication Medical professionals quoted in the article warn that many veterans may discontinue essential medications—such as those for PTSD, depression, chronic pain, or cardiovascular conditions—to avoid losing their benefits. One retired Army physician specifically warned that veterans with PTSD could spiral into depression or suicidal ideation if they stop treatment to maintain their rating.  stripes.com This is not a hypothetical risk; it is a predictable and preventable crisis. 3. It was implemented through an unnecessarily rushed process Advocacy groups have criticized the VA for pushing this rule through an expedited process that limited meaningful veteran input. Veterans deserve transparency and a genuine opportunity to participate in decisions that directly affect their health, livelihood, and long‑term stability.  stripes.com 4. It contradicts the spirit of the VA’s mission The VA’s mandate is to care for those who have “borne the battle.” This rule instead shifts the burden onto veterans, penalizing them for following prescribed treatment plans and managing their conditions responsibly. What I Am Asking of You I respectfully urge you to: • Oppose and challenge this rule through legislative or oversight action. • Advocate for its suspension or reversal until a full, transparent review can be conducted with robust veteran participation. • Ensure that disability ratings continue to reflect the true severity of service‑connected conditions, not the temporary masking effects of medication. Veterans should never be forced to choose between their health and their financial stability. This rule places them in exactly that position. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I hope you will stand with the veteran community in ensuring that disability compensation remains fair, humane, and reflective of the sacrifices made in service to our nation. Respectfully,