We needed better outcomes, we needed more investment to make sure that the outcomes of the American people were, in fact, better.

Earlier this year at one of our hearings, I think a number of organizations testified that the VA Appeals Management Center should be dissolved. They called it a black hole.

I think that they were very specific as it related to the need to move to a system that compensated for the loss of quality-of-life.

I think it is absolutely essential that you tell us whether the next step are congressional steps, the next steps are VA steps, the next step is to stimulate the national debate.

This commission should start with a blank piece of paper to design this system with no preconceived notions.

Perhaps the most significant shortcomings of the current system of veterans' benefit determinations and their judicial review is the delay that veterans face.

I think a process that takes that long is indefensible. Our veterans and their families deserve better.

Each time appellants submit new evidence, VA must review and summarize the case for the appellant again, adding to the time it takes to resolve the appeal.

One really cannot walk in and process claims.

I might note that this is not a cheap investment.

I chuckled, Mr. Koch, at the answer because I sat here thinking, you know, MasterCard and Visa can find everybody in America.

But if it could uphold that legal right, then we should do everything to avoid these types of delays?