Thanks to the generous support of our donors, Disability Rights Advocates is pleased to make available on our website and in our offices the work of artists from the National Institute of Art & Disabilities (NIAD). NIAD provides an art program that promotes creativity, independence, dignity, and community integration for people with developmental and other disabilities.
The work of Disability Rights Advocates (DRA) on behalf of veterans continues to engage much of the firm’s resources. The case that began DRA’s involvement in this field, Veterans for Common Sense, Veterans United for Truth v. Shinseki, et al. is now on appeal to the 9th Circuit. The trial judge made extensive findings in our favor but declined to act. The case challenges both the Veterans Affairs’ (VA’s) inadequate suicide prevention services and the years-long delays in making benefits claims determinations. We obtained amicus support briefs from multiple national veteran organizations, including Vietnam Veterans of America and Military Spouses for Change. A decision is expected within the next several months.
While awaiting that decision, DRA has been continuously monitoring both the data and procedures applicable to mental healthcare for veterans and the backlog in disability claims processing. We have also been tracking developments in relevant legislation as well as any VA initiatives in these critical areas. The existence of the lawsuit, even in the present holding phase, is keeping pressure on the VA; the VA is trying to ameliorate its problems, and has recently released new directives on suicide, PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injury. We welcome any steps that help our veterans. DRA is also actively investigating several potential new class actions, including those involving improper “personality disorder” discharges and employment for veterans.
DRA is further expanding its capacity to help individual veterans and will be challenging denial of benefits and services. The organization is building alliances with the other major national groups working on behalf of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans.
