Blumenthal Issues Statement in Support Of Military Sexual Assault Survivors’ Suit Against the VA

(Hartford, CT) – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) issued the following statement in support of a lawsuit filed today by the Service Women’s Action Network (SWAN) and Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) against the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs regarding discriminatory disability claim review processes for veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress related to military sexual trauma. SWAN and the VVA are represented by the Yale Law School Veterans Legal Services Clinic.

“Military sexual assault is a pernicious and pervasive problem, and it is inexcusable that the brave men and women who have survived such trauma be victimized again by ineffective and discriminatory claims review processes. I applaud the Yale Law School Veterans Legal Services Clinic, Service Women’s Action Network and Vietnam Veterans of America for their leadership in ensuring that all victims of military rape, harassment and assault suffering from post-traumatic stress receive the support and services they need and deserve. This legal action will serve as a powerful counterpart to legislative efforts repeatedly blocked in the Senate I am leading to improve the provision of medical benefits and services to veterans, including victims of military sexual trauma,” Blumenthal said.