Thank you very much for coming.
I know what a complex issue this is and how difficult it is for people to understand. You've indicated that the department is serious about making changes to this program to better suit the needs of the veterans it serves. In all fairness, I think the committee would like to know why you are making changes now. Other than as a result of a change in government, why is the department looking at going this route now?
By the way, I happen to agree with the direction the department is going--but I'd like to know why.