Rep. Mike Levin Leads Bipartisan Virtual Roundtable to Address COVID-19 Impacts on Veterans’ Home Loans

San Juan Capistrano, CA – Today, U.S. Representative Mike Levin (D-CA), Chair of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity, led a virtual roundtable with Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) officials on the impact that COVID-19 has had on veterans’ home loans. The roundtable specifically focused on VA’s implementation of the CARES Act and how it is impacting new home loan applications, as well as VA’s work with veterans to prevent foreclosures. The event showcased the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs technological versatility and commitment to continuing its legislative functions through alternative means during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Subcommittee members were joined by Jeffrey London, Executive Director of the Loan Guaranty Service at the VA; Joe Simpson, Deputy Chief Counsel in the Office of the General Counsel; and Taniesha Kelly, Congressional Relations Officer with the Office of Congressional and Legislative Affairs.
 
“As the COVID-19 pandemic threatens the financial security of families across the country, our Subcommittee is determined to ensure that veterans have all of the support and resources they need to make ends meet,” said Subcommittee Chairman Levin. “Many of us are concerned with what the job market means for veterans who own homes or are looking to become homeowners. The CARES Act bought homeowners some relief and time during this pandemic, but it is not a permanent fix, and we need to do more. Our goal is to keep veterans in their homes, while also maintaining the ability for potential veteran homeowners to get approved for new loans. I’m glad that our Subcommittee could make progress toward that end today, and we’ll continue to conduct our business, whether virtually or in Washington, on behalf of veterans throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.”
 
“Today’s bipartisan virtual roundtable on VA home loans is a key example of how Congress is continuing its oversight throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and I want to thank Subcommittee Chair Levin and Ranking Member Bilirakis for hosting it,” said Chairman Takano. “It’s critical that we continue our work on behalf of our nation’s veterans-- especially when it comes to the economic realities that will continue to affect them long after this crisis ends.” 
 
“As we work to mitigate negative affects of Coronavirus on our nation’s heroes, one important aspect is ensuring continued opportunities for ensuring financial stability and pursuit of the American dream,” said Congressman Bilirakis. “Today’s roundtable was an important step in achieving that goal.”