Overview
- VA officials said initial reviews identified 899 veterans discharged for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine who now qualify for GI Bill education benefits.
- More than 8,000 service members were separated under the prior mandate, and over half received less-than-fully-honorable discharges that restricted education benefits.
- The total number of eligible veterans could increase as Defense Department and VA discharge reviews continue under the executive order’s guidelines.
- The VA began sending notices in September to veterans with upgraded discharges and is urging those affected to seek review and apply for benefits once eligible.
- Executive Order 14184 also directs potential reinstatement, restoration of rank, and back pay for those discharged solely for vaccine refusal, following earlier outreach that included apology letters.