A Marine Corps veteran from Connecticut has suedthe VA alleging racial discrimination in how the agency handles claims for benefits. Now, the federal government wants the case thrown out.
Lawyers for the VA said in court documents that Conley Monk Jr.’s case should be dismissed since he eventually received his benefits, and the agency is already reviewing its decision-making policies to address racial discrimination.
In his lawsuit filed last year, Monk alleged that the VA is more likely to deny disability compensation claims from Black veterans — based on the agency’s own records.
Lawyers for Monk said the VA’s internal review could take years, while Black veterans who submit claims now are still at risk for unfair denials.
The VA has admitted to disparities in benefits decisions due to racism.
