In Bufkin v. Collins, the Supreme Court ruled 7-2 that courts must defer
to the VA’s findings
unless there’s a clear error,
weakening the benefit-of-the-doubt rule
that once helped veterans win close cases.
Veterans Joshua Bufkin and Norman
Thornton were denied PTSD claims
despite presenting nearly balanced evidence.
Justices Jackson and Gorsuch dissented,
warning the decision
undermines fairness.
Advocates fear this
will lead to more denied
claims and are calling
for Congress
to reinforce protections.
The ruling marks
a major shift,
making it tougher
for veterans
to secure the benefits they’ve earned.
