Introduction of the Restore VA Accountability Act
This week, Republican leaders from both the House and Senate rolled out new legislation designed to streamline the disciplinary procedures for employees at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
This move harkens back to priorities set during President Donald Trump’s first term as he gears up for a potential second term.
Named the Restore VA Accountability Act, this legislative effort is spearheaded by Kansas Senator Jerry Moran, who chairs the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, along with Mike Bost, the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman from Illinois.
Observers believe that this proposal could be among the first major advancements in veteran policy to gain traction in the current congressional session.
Key Provisions and Support
Senator Moran underlined the urgency of this legislation, stating that it is crucial not only for delivering the high-quality care and benefits that veterans deserve but also for nurturing a conducive work atmosphere for VA staff.
Chairman Bost echoed this sentiment, noting that the history of underperforming employees at the VA has had harmful effects on veterans and has impeded the efforts of the department’s dedicated personnel.
During his previous presidency, Trump emphasized the need for accountability within the VA, leading Congress to pass legislation in 2017 that empowered senior officials to demote or fire employees for misconduct or subpar performance.
Trump proudly highlighted these efforts during his 2018 State of the Union address, pointing out significant terminations in the wake of the law’s implementation.
However, VA officials later clarified that many of these dismissals involved probationary employees, a group known for its high turnover rates.
In the years that followed, parts of the accountability law faced legal disputes and were eventually repealed by departmental leadership.
Current VA officials assert that they already have the authority required to effectively deal with employee misconduct.
Potential Challenges Ahead
However, several conservative lawmakers argue that stronger measures are necessary to limit union protections and expedite disciplinary action, especially in cases involving allegations of criminal behavior by staff members.
The proposed Restore VA Accountability Act seeks to eliminate the need for a performance improvement plan before any disciplinary steps can be taken.
Furthermore, it intends to facilitate quicker removals, demotions, or suspensions across all VA employee categories.
The legislation also revises the appeals process, aiming to ensure that decisions supported by robust evidence are upheld.
Chairman Bost clarified that the bill is focused on holding accountable the small number of VA employees who do not meet their responsibilities effectively.
Initial backing for the legislation has emerged from various veterans organizations, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, and the National Guard Association of the United States.
Nonetheless, it remains unclear if Democratic lawmakers will support the measure, as previous bipartisan efforts in this domain have been complicated by concerns that Republicans intend to undermine the union protections afforded to federal employees.
At this moment, there hasn’t been a set timeline for when hearings or votes regarding this proposed legislation might take place.
Source: Militarytimes