Veteran Affairs Bill Passed to Increase Accountability

The U.S. House today passed legislation designed to increase accountability at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Senate Bill 10-94 is co-sponsored by Congressman Jodey Arrington, from Lubbock. According to Congressman Arrington, the bill will give the VA Secretary more latitude in disciplining and firing VA employees and increase protections for whistleblowers on VA misconduct. This comes after intense scrutiny on the department due to complaints on wait times and all over poor performance from employees nationwide.

This bill includes the authority to demote or cut pay for employees who are found guilty of wrong doings or even take back bonuses for those who participate in fraud or other instances of poor performance. If an employee is convicted of a felony that influences their job at the VA the Secretary can cut that employee's pension. Finally, employees can also be demoted or suspended regardless of rank depending on their conduct and performance on the job.

Senate Bill 10-94 has already passed the U.S. Senate and now heads to President Trump for his signature.