[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 183 (Tuesday, December 8, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2908]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


INTRODUCING THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS ACQUISITION IMPROVEMENT 
                              ACT OF 2009

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. STEVE BUYER

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 8, 2009

  Mr. BUYER. Madam Speaker, today, I am introducing the Department of 
Veterans Affairs Acquisition Improvement Act of 2009. This legislation 
addresses serious long-term procurement problems within the Department 
of Veterans Affairs (VA) and would provide the VA with greater 
oversight of its contracting and asset management processes.
  VA has annual expenditures of more than $14.1 billion for supplies, 
services, and construction. The Department of Veterans Affairs 
Acquisition Reform Act of 2009 is a first step to provide a centralized 
oversight and policy for contracting and acquisition within the 
Department by streamlining business operations under an Assistant 
Secretary for Acquisition, Construction and Asset Management. This bill 
will improve procurement processes by:
  Establishing the position of the Assistant Secretary of Veterans 
Affairs for Acquisition, Construction and Asset Management who would 
serve as the Chief Acquisition Officer for the VA.
  Providing an appropriate structure for acquisition policy and 
oversight over contracts and purchases.
  Requiring the Secretary to establish and maintain a comprehensive 
centralized Department-wide acquisition program, and to develop a 
streamlined approach to purchasing goods and services.
  Providing VA the authority to use personal services contracts to 
ensure patients at VA medical facilities are provided quality contract 
care without unnecessary expenses.
  Authorizing the VA to have complete responsibility and auditing 
authority for the two Federal Supply Schedules delegated to the VA by 
the General Services Administration.
  Providing a clear definition for small business concerns to be listed 
in the database of veteran-owned businesses maintained by the VA.
  I am pleased to be joined by a number of members in introducing this 
much needed legislation, and urge my colleagues to support the bill.

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