The Missouri Veterans Commission will update its communications policy for veterans claims in response to an audit by Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway.
While, the audit found some areas for improvement, the commission, which provides benefits assistance and support to Missouri’s veterans, received a performance report of ‘good.’
“The work of the Missouri Veterans Commission is critical to ensuring Missouri veterans’ needs are met and they have a voice in our state,” Galloway said. “We all agree the brave men and women who have served our nation and our state need to understand the decisions commission employees make on their behalf. That’s why I’m pleased that the commission’s response to our recommendations shows a continued commitment to improving services for veterans and to putting them first.”
The audit had been requested by Rep. Ann Wagner, whose office received complaints from veterans.
The update to the communications policy would require the veterans commission staff to keep veterans updated on the status of their claims with written documentation. Their claims typically go through the federal Department of Veterans Affairs.
“This is how good government should work,” Galloway said in a statement. “Congresswoman Ann Wagner brought this important issue to the attention of the State Auditor’s Office, and auditors examined current practices to identify ways to better serve veterans. The commission took my staff’s recommendations seriously and has committed to making these important improvements.”
The audit also recommended increased oversight and transparency regarding the use of funds for veterans homes in the state. The audit had found that some funds designated for the veterans homes were used for other commission expenses, including travel costs of commissioners and executive staff and furniture for the central office.
The audit also called for increased oversight and review into how fees for veterans living in homes are changed.
