🇺🇸 In honor of those who gave everything in service to this nation — FedSmith observes Memorial Day with gratitude. 🇺🇸
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.
The House passed legislation that would make it easier to fire VA employees for misconduct or poor performance as well as allow the agency Secretary to reduce employee…
The VA and federal civil service is "trapped in a failed and antiquated civil service system that is in desperate need of reform." A House bill would change…
A new bill would reduce retirement income for some federal employees working as federal union representatives while being paid by the federal government.
Legislation has been reintroduced in Congress to make it easier to fire VA employees for misconduct or poor performance.
Social media is a powerful tool. Federal employees are in a unique position. Can they tweet hostile political opinions to many followers? Is that a good career move?
Does the use of official time at the VA improve veterans' care, and how much official time is actually used by employees? A recent House Committee hearing sought…
How much time and money are spent at the VA on official time? GAO finds no consistent reporting system.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced that direct patient care positions within the agency are exempt from the Trump administration's hiring freeze.
The Chairmen of the House and Senate VA committees sent a letter to President Trump asking for clarification about exempting the VA from the hiring freeze.
Legislation was recently introduced in the House of Representatives to make it easier to fire VA employees for poor performance.