A US federal court has unanimously rejected an attempt by the Trump administration to delay rulings on disability benefit claims filed by military veterans. The 9-0 decision, issued by the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, was described by the judges as a rejection of an “extreme request” that could have unfairly prolonged justice for thousands of veterans.
Led by Chief Judge Michael Allen, a Trump appointee, the panel dismissed the request made by Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins to halt nearly all pending cases until the federal government shutdown ends. The judges said the administration failed to justify suspending deadlines in ongoing appeals, emphasizing that such a move would have serious consequences for veterans awaiting compensation.
Veterans’ advocacy groups welcomed the ruling, saying the administration’s motion would have forced former service members—many of whom have already waited decades for justice—to endure indefinite delays. Advocates highlighted that many cases involve long-term illnesses tied to toxic exposures such as Agent Orange and burn pits.
The court’s ruling ensures that thousands of appeals will continue to move forward, preserving access to disability benefits and healthcare for veterans who have served the country but faced bureaucratic obstacles in receiving due compensation.