1. United States
2. N.Y.
3. Letter

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has ended the VA Servicing Purchase program (VASP) that helped around 20,000 veterans avoid foreclosure on their home loans. This move leaves veterans with far fewer affordable options compared to other homeowners if they face difficulties paying their mortgages. With nearly 90,000 VA loans seriously delinquent and 33,000 already in foreclosure, ending VASP without a replacement will likely result in numerous veterans losing their homes. While Republicans have criticized VASP over taxpayer risks, abruptly terminating it endangers housing stability for those who served our nation. Military veterans made immense sacrifices, and losing one's home compounds the challenges many face after service, including post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injuries. Abandoning this vital program is unacceptable and unjust treatment of our veterans. Congress must act promptly to reinstate an affordable mortgage relief option for those who secured VA loans with the commitment of a grateful nation behind them. Allowing thousands of veterans to be displaced from their homes is a moral failing that betrays our duty to support those who answered the call to military service. A comprehensive solution reflecting the debt owed to our veterans must be instituted without delay.