Ramirez, Takano Investigate Lapse in ICE’s Medical Reimbursement Claims by VA

Washington, DC -Today, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Ranking Member of the Veterans Affairs' Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee and Ranking Member in one of the Homeland Security Subcommittees, joined Congressman Mark Takano (CA-39), Ranking Member of the Veterans Affairs House Committee, to open an investigation into the reports that that the Department of the Veterans Affairs (VA) delayed processing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) medical reimbursement claims since October 3. ICE's failure to pay its bills for months caused medical providers to deny services to ICE detainees.

In the letter directed to VA Secretary Doug Collins and DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin, members also questioned the departments' unreliable public information. While the VA claimed that it had continued processing reimbursement claims, the assertions were disputed by VA employees. And while the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) claims adjudications restarted in May 2026, members remain unclear about the backlog of unprocessed claims.

"VA Financial Services Center (VA-FSC) has processed claims for reimbursement for necessary medical treatment provided to individuals detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for over twenty years. ICE paid VA for its claim processing services. On October 3, 2025, VA suddenly and instantly terminated its agreement with ICE to process these claims, leaving ICE with no capabilities to continue paying for off-site medical care for detainees. This also left ICE unable to procure prescription medications for individuals in ICE custody," wrote the members.

According to CBS reports, the VA processed $246 million in medical claims for ICE detainees in 2024. In 2025, despite an 82% increase in the detained population, only $157 million in claims were processed, indicating a gap of nearly $300 million between needed medical care and what was actually paid. The shortfall reflects both unpaid bills and detainees who may never have received treatment.

The secretaries must provide answers to the inquiry by July 17, 2026. Additionally, the members have requested a briefing to the House Veterans Affairs Committee staff no later than July 24, 2026.

To read the full letter, CLICK HERE.

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