Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Accelerates Veterans’ Access to Benefits and Employment Opportunities

This is a White House fact sheet accompanying the September 8, 2026 executive order on veterans' records modernization. Key points: Order overview: Directs the Departments of War and Veterans Affairs to modernize IT systems for sharing military personnel files and medical records, deploy AI-powered tools for a unified benefits portal, coordinate with OMB and HHS on IT contracts, and overhaul the Transition Assistance Program with better job connections and dedicated veterans specialists. Problem being addressed: Current record transfers take 90–180 days due to outdated systems, delaying healthcare, benefits, education, and job placement — an issue especially acute for National Guard and Reserve members who frequently shift between active duty and VA eligibility. Administration's broader veterans record: Cites a first-term executive order on mental healthcare/suicide prevention during transition, a May 2025 order expanding healthcare access (reduced VA wait times, weekend/virtual appointments), elimination of the CHAMPVA backlog in November 2025, reducing the VA benefits backlog below 70,000 (lowest since 2020) as of July 2026, and the July 2026 "Freedom Haulers" program fast-tracking Commercial Driver's License certification for service members.