How Can VA Services Be Improved? Ask Veterans What Needs Fixing
One Congressman wants to ask veterans what needs fixing at the VA to make needed reforms at the agency.
VA
Stay informed on news and policy updates involving the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), including changes to VA benefits, healthcare programs, disability compensation, and agency operations. Explore analysis of legislation, OPM and federal workforce policies that intersect with VA programs, as well as updates affecting veterans who are federal employees or retirees. Find clear explanations and timely reporting on VA initiatives, funding decisions, claims processing, and major actions that shape services for veterans and their families.
VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act of 2017 Passed By Senate
The Senate has passed the Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. The author provides a summary and analysis of the bill.
Does the VA Accountability Bill Get Rid of the MSPB?
Congress is considering legislation to allow the VA secretary greater leeway in removing employees for performance reasons. Secretary David Shulkin provided a response to a direct question asking if the bill would mean elimination of the MSPB.
Report: VA Facility Served Food Trays with Cockroaches to Patients
A VA Inspector General’s report substantiated claims that cockroaches were present in the kitchen facility at the Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital.
How Large Agencies Fared Under the 2018 Budget Proposal
The 2018 budget proposal from the White House sets spending priorities for large federal agencies. Here is a summary for some key agencies.
Bipartisan Support for VA Accountability Bill
A bipartisan bill in the Senate would make changes including creating an expedited appeal process for VA employees and alter existing appeal procedures.
Making It Quicker and Easier to Fire VA Employees
Legislation is moving in Congress to make it quicker and easier to fire VA employees. The bill would also have provisions to protect whistleblowers and to encourage managers to address performance problems.
Appeals Court Rules on Former VA Director’s Termination
In an early test of the new law designed to make it easier to fire DVA senior executives and to streamline the appeals process, the appeals court has handed down a significant ruling that presents a mixed bag.
Woman Heading to Prison for Defrauding VA of Almost $400k in Benefits
A Florida woman has been sentenced to prison after pleading guilty to falsely obtaining benefits from the VA.
Trump Signs EO to Make It Easier to Fire Non-Performing VA Employees
President Trump signed an executive order establishing a new office tasked with making it easier to fire VA employees for misconduct or poor performance.
