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In Response to Severe Backlog for Veterans’ Records Requests, Golden Joins Call for Full Reopening of National Personnel Records Center (NPRC)

February 4, 2022

WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) joined a bipartisan group of his House colleagues to call for the full reopening of the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) so veterans can acquire much-needed benefits.

"Right now, it's nearly impossible for my team to get military records for the veterans we're assisting unless those veterans are literally dying or experiencing homelessness. Veterans often need these records to access VA care and education, retirement, and other benefits they've earned," said Golden. "The fact that this facility isn't fully reopened at this point is unacceptable and it's a disservice to men and women who have sacrificed for our country."

The National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) is an agency of the National Archives and is the central repository of personnel-related records for both the military and civil services of the United States Government. The NPRC is the sole entity that handles military records; there is no alternative. Veterans rely on the NPRC to access records that afford them medical benefits, home loans, among other critical services and benefits. As with all agencies, the NPRC has been limiting on-site staff due to the pandemic, resulting in considerable delays in veterans being able to acquire records.

"The NPRC is not only responsible for an array of services Veterans depend on; it is the only agency that provides these services," the lawmakers wrote. "There is no alternative service for accessing military records required by various federal and civilian agencies."

Leading the letter were Congressmen Cliff Bentz (R-OR) and Fred Keller (R-PA).

Read a copy of the letter here.

 

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Issues:Veterans