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Computer issue delaying processing of Kansas vets’ claims

By Associated Press - | Oct 22, 2015

? A Kansas agency says its workers have been blocked from using a Veterans Affairs computer program, leading to delays in processing veterans’ claims.

The Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs normally uses a computer program that allows it to process hundreds of claims each month and send them to the VA’s regional office in Wichita.

But Wayne Bollig, a deputy director at the commission, told The Topeka Capital-Journal that commission workers have been blocked from using the site since Tuesday, requiring them to fax or mail claims.

At issue is a memorandum of understanding, a legal document written by the VA that states the software program is safe and secure. Bollig said the VA didn’t generate the memo of understanding for the agency to sign and that the VA cut off access.

A VA spokeswoman said someone from the VA would respond to calls seeking comment, but no one had by late morning Thursday.

“We can work around it but we are creating delays for our veterans to get benefits,” Bollig said.

He said if the issue isn’t resolved soon, the agency will receive a flood of claims at the end of the month.

“This happens at the worst possible time,” Bollig said.

Sen. Jerry Moran also said he’s also brought the issue to the VA’s attention.