Senate committee urges VA to adopt AI for faster veterans claims processing

The U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs convened on April 1, 2025, to discuss pending nominations and address key issues affecting the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The meeting focused on the importance of communication within the VA, the modernization of benefits processing, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in improving services for veterans.

The session began with discussions surrounding a policy that requires VA employees to seek permission from political leadership before consulting the office of general counsel. A senator questioned the appropriateness of this requirement, emphasizing that employees should have the freedom to seek legal advice without prior approval. The nominee responded affirmatively, stating that while organized communication is essential, employees should be able to access legal counsel independently.

The conversation then shifted to the efficiency of the VA's rulemaking process. Senators expressed frustration over the lengthy timelines for implementing policies and rules. The nominee committed to enhancing the office's efficiency and establishing rigorous metrics to expedite these processes, underscoring the importance of timely access to benefits for veterans.

Another significant topic was the modernization of the VA's electronic systems. A senator criticized the current reliance on outdated technology, such as optical character recognition, and urged the nominee to develop a roadmap for incorporating AI into the VA's operations. The senator highlighted the potential of AI to streamline the processing of veterans' benefits claims and eliminate backlogs. The nominee acknowledged the value of technology and expressed willingness to explore AI's role in improving claims development while ensuring that human oversight remains integral to decision-making.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the nominee to work collaboratively with the committee to enhance the VA's services through technological advancements and improved communication strategies. The discussions underscored a shared goal among committee members and nominees to prioritize veterans' needs and ensure that the VA operates efficiently and effectively.