Amna Nawaz
@PBSNewsHour·5.3M subscribers·62.2K videos
VA backtracks on controversial new disability rule
Posted
February 20, 2026
Views
5,209
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121
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2.32%
February 20, 2026
5,209
121
2.32%
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1:57Now PlayingAfter major backlash, the Department of Veterans Affairs quickly rescinded a controversial new rule it issued this week.
The new rule would have changed how disability ratings were assessed, taking into account medications and other treatments into the final calculations. The VA said the rule was issued to clarify existing policy and save the agency from paying out benefits “based on a disability level that veterans are not actually experiencing.”
Veterans groups quickly spoke out against the rule, saying it would have reduced benefits for many veterans and would essentially punish disabled veterans for complying with their prescribed treatments.
The rule has received more than 10,000 public comments since it was posted. VA Secretary Doug Collins said the public comment period will remain open, but as of now, it “will not be enforced at any time in the future.”
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