VA Opens Door for More Vets with OTH Discharges to Receive Benefits

As reported April 25 by Patricia Kime for Military.com, some veterans who received other-than-honorable discharges for offenses that include misconduct, questionable behavior, or homosexuality will be able to apply for healthcare and benefits at the VA, officials announced Thursday. The VA is expected to amend its regulation regarding what is known as “character of discharge,” or type of discharge, by eliminating a barrier for veterans kicked out for being gay. It also will create an exception for those discharged for misconduct or problems that may be related to mental health issues stemming from combat exposure, discrimination, sexual assault, and more. According to the VA, the department will consider a former servicemember’s length and quality of service, as well as any other confounding issues, to determine whether a veteran is eligible for healthcare and benefits.