HARTFORD, Conn. (WFSB) - Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal says the ongoing government shutdown is taking a toll on veterans.

The senator and labor leaders say that while the Department of Veterans Affairs staff are getting paid and VA programs are still funded through a multi-year appropriations bill, they argue the nearly three week government shutdown is impacting those who depend on the VA.

“The VA has shut down its congressional offices, so when people come to us and we want to help them with benefits they’ve been denied or healthcare that they’re seeking, the VA has no way to respond to us,” said Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).

Senator Blumenthal also pointed out that most VA employees are veterans themselves.

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