Metro East Sun

House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Mike Bost and Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Jerry Moran have introduced new legislation aimed at enhancing the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) ability to hold underperforming employees accountable. The proposed Restore VA Accountability Act seeks to address limitations imposed by previous court decisions that have weakened the effectiveness of the 2017 VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act.

Chairman Bost emphasized, “Over the past two years, we uncovered scandal after scandal of bad middle managers or employees at VA committing wrongdoing. But time and time again, we saw these bad VA employees who don’t have veterans’ best interests at heart, just reshuffled to another part of the agency.” He added that the bill aims to ensure accountability for a small percentage of poor-performing employees within the VA.

Chairman Moran noted, “While VA employs some of the finest men and women, it only takes a few bad employees to disrupt the culture and service at the VA.” He highlighted that swift action is necessary to maintain high-quality care for veterans.

The legislation has garnered support from several lawmakers who cite issues in local VA facilities as evidence of a need for reform. Oversight & Investigations Chairwoman Kiggans remarked on her personal experience with unacceptable conditions at Hampton Roads VA, stating it is essential to hold problematic employees accountable.

Rep. Van Orden commented, “The VA is not a jobs program for bureaucrats,” emphasizing that those not performing should not remain employed by the agency. Rep. Luttrell pointed out that previous measures had been undermined by court rulings and administrative decisions but expressed confidence in this new act's potential impact.

Various stakeholders also back the bill. Pat Murray from The Veterans of Foreign Wars stated their support for improving accountability standards within the VA. Jim Lorraine from America’s Warrior Partnership stressed trust between veterans and their caregivers as vital for effective service delivery.

John Byrnes from Concerned Veterans for America called passing this act crucial amidst ongoing mental health challenges faced by veterans. Mario Marquez from The American Legion echoed similar sentiments about ensuring exceptional service through strengthened disciplinary authority.

The Restore VA Accountability Act includes provisions such as expedited disciplinary processes and removing performance improvement plan requirements before taking action against poor performers. It has received cosponsorship from numerous members across both legislative chambers.