Federal investigation finds 'systemic inability' to provide care at New Jersey veterans homes led to high COVID deaths

New Jersey's veterans homes were unprepared for COVID-19, resulting in poor infection control and spread of the virus.
Inadequate staff training and competency exacerbated the situation, with facilities unable to implement recommendations.
More than 200 residents died across the two state-run facilities during the pandemic.
The Justice Department found the homes violated veterans' constitutional rights through deficient medical care.
The state reached a $53 million settlement over negligence claims and has vowed to improve conditions.