Journalists from The Washington Post conducted a thorough investigation into allegations of fraud within the GI Bill program. They meticulously analyzed databases, reviewed thousands of documents, and conducted field research across three states to uncover their findings. The investigation revealed over $300 million in fraudulent activities.
The Department of Veterans Affairs headquarters is located in Washington, where significant administrative oversight of the GI Bill occurs. Two years prior, Lisa Rein, a former reporter for The Washington Post, and a colleague began receiving numerous tips about potential fraud in the program. Sources indicated that the issues primarily originated from for-profit trade schools. These schools generated numerous complaints from veterans, alleging that the education provided was subpar or that other fraudulent activities were underway.
Sources further revealed that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) appeared ineffective in addressing these complaints. Despite veterans voicing concerns, the perceived inaction by the VA suggested a lack of enforcement or regulatory measures to tackle the growing problem.