Trump signs veterans benefits order calling for improved data sharing – GovExec.com

Trump signs veterans benefits order calling for improved data sharing  GovExec.com

The order instructs the departments of Veterans Affairs and Defense to conduct a broad review of information technology-related contracts to ensure grea… President Donald Trump speaks during a Steel Across America event at the White House in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 8, 2026. Alex WROBLEWSKI / AFP via Getty Images President Donald Trump signed an executive order Tuesday afternoon that seeks to give veterans quicker access to benefits and services by enhancing data sharing between the Pentagon and the Department of Veterans Affairs, requiring a review of relevant information technology contracts and deploying new digital tools to process claims. The order gives the Department of Defense 30 days to ensure all current servicemembers’ military personnel files, health records and service treatment records are shared with the VA as soon as they are released or discharged from military service.

It currently takes 90 to 180 days for records to be exchanged when service members transition to civilian life because of legacy systems, according to a White House fact sheet. The directive instructs DOD and VA to create guidance and information technology systems within 180 days that would ensure the “permanent, prospective and ongoing sharing” of records from the moment an individual enters military service until they no longer need VA benefits. Enhanced data sharing between the two departments could help veterans