Veterans Affairs Distributed Ledger Innovation Act of 2025
Summary
H.R. 3455, the Veterans Affairs Distributed Ledger Innovation Act of 2025, directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a comprehensive study on the use of distributed ledger technology (DLT) within the Department. The study will assess the feasibility, potential benefits, and risks associated with implementing DLT to improve claims adjudication and prevent fraud, waste, and abuse in benefits administration. The Secretary is required to consult with experts, veterans service organizations, and other federal agencies.
The bill mandates a report to be submitted to the Committees on Veterans' Affairs of the Senate and House of Representatives within one year of enactment. This report must include findings, potential benefits and risks, recommendations for pilot programs, and any necessary legislative or administrative actions.
The bill defines 'distributed ledger' and 'distributed ledger technology' to provide clarity for the study's scope.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill will lead to a comprehensive study on the potential use of distributed ledger technology within the Department of Veterans Affairs. This could lead to future pilot programs and initiatives to modernize the VA's benefits administration systems.
Ultimately, the goal is to improve efficiency, transparency, and security in the delivery of benefits to veterans. The study could also identify potential risks and challenges associated with implementing this technology.
Potential Benefits
- Improved clarity and traceability of veterans' benefits claims.
- Reduced risk of fraudulent and inaccurate claims through enhanced verification processes.
- Improved accountability in claims handling within the VA.
- Aids in identifying irregularities in benefits delivery, ensuring veterans receive what they are entitled to.
- Potentially more efficient allocation of benefits and management of insurance programs.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- The study itself will require resources and funding, potentially diverting funds from other VA programs.
- There is a risk that the study may not yield conclusive results, leading to no significant changes.
- Implementation of distributed ledger technology could introduce new security vulnerabilities if not properly managed.
- The technology may be complex and require significant training for VA personnel.
- Potential privacy concerns related to the storage and access of veterans' personal information on a distributed ledger.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the General Welfare Clause (Preamble). Congress is acting to potentially improve the efficiency and effectiveness of government services for veterans, which falls under promoting the general welfare.
Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. This bill can be seen as an effort to improve the administration of veterans' benefits, which is a legitimate function of the federal government. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).