State Senate Investigates Problems At Oklahoma Veterans Affairs

The Oklahoma Senate is launching a study into reports of problems at the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs' and its seven veterans' centers.

The study began Tuesday at the State Capitol. The first meeting will focus on administration issues including the structure and responsibilities of the agency and the War Veterans Commission. Lawmakers also will be looking into the role of the War Veterans Commission and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs in relation to oversight of the agency.

Members of the commission and the veterans' agency will participate in the study. Retired Air Force Maj. Gen. Rita Aragon, secretary of Military and Veterans Affairs, also will participate.

The study was requested by Sen. Frank Simpson of Ardmore, a Navy veteran, following reports of abuse at the state's veterans' centers.

8/20/2012 Related Story: Commission Names Interim Director for OK Veterans Affairs Department