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3.1. Unique Aspects of Veterans Law

The basic operation of VA is very similar to other federal agencies. The legal requirements that VA must follow are created by Acts of Congress and codified in statutes. The VA Secretary, however, has very broad powers to prescribe the many rules and regulations "necessary or appropriate" to carry out those legal requirements. And, as long as the Secretary's actions "are consistent" with the laws enacted by Congress, a court will not interfere with VA's decisions.

Congress, however, has long recognized that veterans have earned special consideration for their service to the country. In recognition of this service, Congress has imposed several special duties and requirements on VA to ease the burden on veterans seeking benefits. Claimants should be aware of these special considerations because they provide a veteran with significant advantages in seeking an award.

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