Comment on AO63-Correction-VA Veteran Owned Small Business Verification Guidelines; Correction; Geissler, Eric L.

I attempted to verify our SDVOSB status in the VIP system last year. It was categorically the worst experience of bureaucracy I have personally experienced in 53 years and it has cost me untold opportunities to grow my business. It took a huge amount of time and effort to compile the binder of information required for this process--NONE of which documented my status--e.g., no DD214, VA disability letter, etc. I continuously got the run around with regard to finding out the status of my package as it was getting reviewed by OTHER contractors! After more than double the advertised review time (7+ mo), I received a form letter notifying me that there was a single line in my operating agreement that didn't protect my rights as the SDVOSB owner. Instead of allowing me to change this simple sentence and re-submit I was automatically suspended for 6 months. Now when I muster the sanity to re-submit...and then wait again for the months of review again, this will have been an 18-24 month process. And all this in the name of protecting me, the disabled vet. Simply unsat. This process should IMMEDIATELY be streamlined. It is a huge example of waste fraud and abuse in and of itself. SDVOSBs can be very quickly validated with a few documents--e.g., 1) disability letter from VA; 2) Proof of 51% ownership; 3) last year tax return; 4) Operating Agreement. Additionally, if there is missing information, or if the veteran needs to legitimately modify his/her documents, then let them and immediately re-submit. AND PROSECUTE TO THE LIMITS OF THE LAW all those who misrepresent themselves as SDVOSB. THAT is the best way to look out for veterans and taxpayers. The current process is absolutely shameful. R/S Eric L Geissler Major USMC (Ret)