[House Report 118-941]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
Union Calendar No. 792
118th Congress } { Report
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
2d Session } { 118-941
_______________________________________________________________________
HOUSE COMMITTEE ON
VETERANS' AFFAIRS
ACTIVITIES REPORT
Submitted in accordance with House Rule XI(D)(1)
[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
December 20, 2024.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on
the State of the Union and ordered to be printed
------
U.S. GOVERNMENT PUBLISHING OFFICE
58-652 WASHINGTON : 2025
LETTER OF SUBMITTAL
----------
House of Representatives,
Committee on Veterans' Affairs,
Washington, DC, December 20, 2024.
Hon. Kevin F. McCumber,
Acting Clerk, House of Representatives,
Washington, DC.
Dear Mister Clerk: Pursuant to rule XI 1(d)(1) of the Rules
of the U.S. House of Representatives, I respectfully submit
this report on the activities of the Committee on Veterans'
Affairs during the 118th Congress.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Mike Bost,
Chairman.
C O N T E N T S
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Membership of the Committee on Veterans' Affairs................. VII
Jurisdiction of the Committee.................................... 1
Oversight Plan................................................... 2
Activities of the Full Committee................................. 17
Activities of the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and
Memorial Affairs............................................... 35
Activities of the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity........... 55
Activities of the Subcommittee on Health......................... 73
Activities of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations... 91
Activities of the Subcommittee on Technology Modernization....... 107
Activities of the Women Veterans Task Force...................... 117
Appendix I: Legislation That Passed the House.................... 121
Appendix II: Public Laws Enacted................................. 125
Appendix III: Hearings Held Pursuant to Clauses 2(n), (o), or (p)
of Rule XI..................................................... 126
Appendix IV: Messages From the President and Other Executive
Branch Communications.......................................... 135
MEMBERSHIP OF THE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS
MIKE BOST, Illinois, Chairman
MARK TAKANO, California, Ranking Member
(14-11)\1\
AUMUA AMATA COLEMAN RADEWAGEN, JULIA BROWNLEY, California
American Samoa, Vice-Chairman MIKE LEVIN, California, Vice-
JACK BERGMAN, Michigan Chairman
NANCY MACE, South Carolina CHRIS PAPPAS, New Hampshire
MATT ROSENDALE, Montana FRANK MRVAN, Indiana
MARIANNETTE MILLER-MEEKS, Iowa SHEILA CHERFILUS-McCORMICK,
GREG MURPHY, North Carolina Florida
SCOTT FRANKLIN, Florida MORGAN McGARVEY, Kentucky
DERRICK VAN ORDEN, Wisconsin DELIA RAMIREZ, Illinois
MORGAN LUTTRELL, Texas GREG LANDSMAN, Ohio
JUAN CISCOMANI, Arizona NIKKI BUDSZINSKI, Illinois
ELI CRANE, Arizona TIMOTHY KENNEDY, New York
KEITH SELF, Texas
JEN KIGGANS, Virginia
------
Jon Clark, Majority Staff Director
Matt Reel, Minority Staff Director
----------
\1\On June 3, 2024, Representative Chris Deluzio of Pennsylvania
resigned his Committee membership, including the Subcommittees on
Health and Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.
On June 3, 2024, Representative Timothy Kennedy of New York was
appointed to the Committee.
On September 10, 2024, Representative Timothy Kennedy of New York was
appointed to the Subcommittees on Oversight and Investigations and
Technology Modernization.
On September 10, 2024, Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick of
Florida resigned from the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
and was appointed to the Subcommittee on Health.
On September 10, 2024, Representative Greg Landsman of Ohio resigned
from the Subcommittee on Technology Modernization and was appointed to
the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.
Union Calendar No. 792
118th Congress } { Report
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
2d Session } { 118-941
=======================================================================
HOUSE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS
ACTIVITIES REPORT
_______
December 20, 2024.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on
the State of the Union and ordered to be printed
_______
Mr. Takano, from the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, pursuant to
House Rule XI, Clause 1(D)(1), submitted the following
R E P O R T
JURISDICTION OF THE COMMITTEE
Rule X of the Rules of the House of Representatives
establishes the standing Committees of the House and their
jurisdiction. Under that Rule, all bills, resolutions, and
other matters relating to the subjects within the jurisdiction
of any standing Committee shall be referred to such Committee.
Clause 1(s) of Rule X establishes the jurisdiction of the
Committee on Veterans' Affairs as follows:
(1) Veterans' measures generally.
(2) Cemeteries of the United States in which veterans
of any war or conflict are or may be buried, whether in
the United States or abroad (except cemeteries
administered by the Secretary of the Interior).
(3) Compensation, vocational rehabilitation, and
education of veterans.
(4) Life insurance issued by the Government on
account of service in the Armed Forces.
(5) Pensions of all the wars of the United States,
general and special.
(6) Readjustment of servicemembers to civil life.
(7) Servicemembers' civil relief.
(8) Veterans' hospitals, medical care, and treatment
of veterans.
AUTHORIZATION AND OVERSIGHT PLAN
In accordance with clause 2 of Rule X, the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs submits its Authorization and Oversight Plan
for the 118th Congress. The Committee conducts its oversight
with the help of five Subcommittees: the Subcommittee on
Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs, the Subcommittee on
Economic Opportunity, the Subcommittee on Health, the
Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, and the
Subcommittee on Technology Modernization. It is expected that
oversight of the issues outlined below will be a shared
responsibility of the full Committee and the appropriate
subcommittees.
While the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) carries out
many of its functions and programs under the authority of
broad, organic statutes pertaining to health care, benefits, or
the organization of the Department, some programs operate under
specific authorizations. These are indicated in the applicable
subcommittee sections. Programs whose authorizations soon
expire are emphasized. The Committee plans to devote particular
attention to major VA information technology (IT) programs and
projects, all of which have yet to be authorized. This
Congress, the Committee will individually consider whether to
authorize each such program or project.
SUBCOMMITTEE ON DISABILITY ASSISTANCE AND MEMORIAL AFFAIRS
Authorizations of Disability Assistance and
Memorial Affairs Programs--Each Congress, the Committee
authorizes or reauthorizes VA programs in the jurisdiction of
the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.
The Committee will continue to authorize on a case-by-case
basis for new legislation and will review and determine
reauthorizations for existing programs. During the 117th
Congress, Titles II, III, and IV of P.L. 117-168, the Sergeant
First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address
Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022 (PACT Act) authorized
disability compensation and dependency indemnity compensation
benefits for toxic-exposed veterans and their survivors and
established a program to determine if additional veterans are
suffering from conditions that may be linked to military toxic
exposures. This legislation also requires VA to report on the
implementation of those provisions. The Committee will work
with VA to ensure authorized programs are implemented as
Congress intended and review older programs to ensure they are
funded appropriately.
Toxic Exposures--The Veterans Benefits
Administration (VBA) is implementing provisions related to
delivering compensation benefits for toxic-exposed veterans
within the PACT Act. VBA began processing PACT Act-related
claims on January 1st, 2023, including claims for 24
presumptive conditions. VBA did not have implementation
regulations in place before it went live on January 1st.
Instead, VBA published a training policy letter, which was
provided to claims processors, on Regulations.gov on December
22nd, 2022. The Committee will conduct rigorous oversight of
VBA's implementation of the PACT Act to ensure success. This
will include evaluating the effectiveness of training and
guidance, information technology updates, hiring procedures,
outreach materials and methods, quality review, and overall
veteran satisfaction.
VBA Quality Review--VBA employs a variety of
mechanisms to review the quality of initial claims decisions.
The Compensation Service and the Office of Field Operations
(OFO) are responsible for administering quality assurance of
compensation claims. In 2020 and 2021, the Office of Inspector
General (OIG) released four reports which found deficiencies in
VBA's four quality review programs. OIG reviewed VBA's Site
Visit program, Systematic Technical Accuracy Review (STAR)
program, Quality Review Team program, and Consistency Study
program. OIG also assessed the effectiveness of coordination
between the Compensation Service and OFO and identified areas
of improvement. The Committee will investigate the efficacy of
VBA's quality assurance procedures and VBA's progress in
addressing the gaps in the above programs. Additionally, the
Committee will continue to explore how VBA has designed its
quality review measures, and to what extent that design yields
accurate results.
VBA Training--A June 2021 Government
Accountability Office (GAO) report found that VBA could improve
its design, implementation, and evaluation of its training
programs. VBA employees have also reported that VBA's Virtual
and In-Person Progression (VIP) training program is of poor
quality and does not adequately prepare examiners to process
claims. Furthermore, the VBA manual is frequently updated, and
employees are not always required to undergo new training that
explains the changes. The Committee will conduct oversight into
how VBA implements training and seek methods to improve
training to ensure veterans receive the benefits to which they
are entitled.
Reducing and Preventing Compensation and Pension
Backlog by Modernizing VA Claims--Veterans are experiencing
longer wait times for a decision on their claim due to
processing delays resulting from the pandemic. Further, the
VA's inventory of pending claims has risen due to the extension
of presumptive benefits to toxic-exposed veterans. As of
February 4th, 2023, VA's compensation and pension inventory
totaled 742,149 claims, including a backlog of 197,353 claims.
The Committee will conduct oversight into how VBA reduces its
claims backlog to its target of reaching a functional zero of
100,000 claims, prioritizes the oldest and most emergent claims
(such as those for homeless or critically ill veterans), and
provides timely and accurate decisions. Additionally, the
Committee will explore how VA can further utilize technology to
assist with claims processing and reduce the pending claims
inventory. For example, VA is piloting the use of automation in
the claims process. The Committee will assess the accuracy and
timeliness of claims developed using automation.
Fiduciary Reform--The Committee will review the
performance of the VBA Fiduciary Program. The program is
designed to provide financial security to veterans and other
beneficiaries who have been determined unable to manage their
VA benefit payments. In FY 2022, VA fiduciaries managed over
108,000 VA beneficiaries' benefits. Fiduciaries are designated
by VA and can be a family member, close friends, or
professional fiduciary. The review will include oversight of
how fiduciaries are appointed; the Department's compliance with
provisions in the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act (P.L.
103-159), which can potentially prevent beneficiaries in the
fiduciary program from purchasing firearms; and fraud
associated with the program. Moreover, in July 2021, OIG
continued to identify deficiencies in the Fiduciary Program,
such as significant wait times for misuse and negligence
determinations and the reimbursement of misused funds. The
Committee will review how VBA can better protect and serve
beneficiaries needing a fiduciary.
National Cemeteries--The Committee will continue
oversight of the National Cemetery Administration (NCA),
Arlington National Cemetery (ANC), and the American Battle
Monuments Commission (ABMC), to include each organization's
mission, operations, and inquiries into matters of unclaimed
remains, access, and the methodology for determining veteran
satisfaction. Each of the above organizations provides a
sacred, hallowed resting place for veterans. VA alone operates
over 150 National Cemeteries to provide an honorable resting
place for veterans and certain dependents. The Committee will
examine several issues, including cemetery maintenance, access,
construction, and overall management issues.
Medical Disability Exam Office (MDEO)--Some
veterans require a VA medical examination to adjudicate a claim
for disability benefits. Unfortunately, there need to be more
VA examiners to perform these evaluations on time, and some
veterans experience lengthy delays before VA can schedule such
examinations. It may be challenging for VA to timely schedule
these examinations if the veteran needs to see a specialist,
such as a cardiologist or orthopedic surgeon. Moreover,
veterans living in rural areas may have to travel many miles to
a VA facility to see a VA examiner for a disability
examination. To provide veterans with more timely examinations,
VA has the authority to contract with independent physicians to
conduct disability examinations. The MDEO office within VBA
oversees quality, timeliness, and veteran satisfaction with the
program. The Committee will evaluate how MDEO plans to address
underperforming contractors and ensure that contractors
maintain or improve quality services for veterans.
Life Insurance--On January 5th, 2021, President
Trump signed P.L. 116-315, which required VA to establish a
modernized Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance program by
January 1st, 2023. VA refers to this program as VA Life
Insurance (VALife). The Committee will conduct continuous
oversight of the VA's implementation of VALife to ensure that
veterans are timely enrolled into the new program and well
served. Additionally, the Committee will continue to review
whether all of the VA's active life insurance programs meet the
needs of servicemembers, veterans, and their families.
VBA's Physical Infrastructure--VBA is comprised of
a system of 56 Regional Offices (ROs). These ROs have an
unnecessarily large infrastructure footprint due to the amount
of unused space in the current telework-heavy environment,
which increases costs. Additionally, the pandemic accelerated
the expansion of telework and remote work within VBA. The
Committee will explore VBA's plans to reduce unnecessary space
and associated costs due to its physical infrastructure.
Manila Regional Office--The authorization for the
Manila RO, the only overseas RO, expires on September 30th,
2024. Initially, the Manila RO was established to better
provide VA services to World War II veterans who resided in the
Philippines. Since then, the Manila RO's role in benefits
delivery has changed as VBA has modernized the claims process.
In 2016, VA deployed the National Work Queue (NWQ), which
assigned claims to whichever RO has the capacity to handle it
first, rather than the more traditional model of having the
Regional Office nearest the veteran handle the claim. As a
result, the Manila RO began processing claims for veterans who
resided outside of the Philippines. The Committee will examine
whether the Manila RO's caseload, output, and quality justify
the need for an overseas RO.
SUBCOMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY
Authorizations of Economic Opportunity Programs--
Each Congress, the Committee authorizes or reauthorizes VA
programs in the jurisdiction of Economic Opportunity. The
Committee will continue to authorize on a case-by-case basis
for new legislation and will review and determine
reauthorizations for previous programs. During the 117th
Congress, Sec. 302 and Sec. 303 in the Joseph Maxwell Cleland
and Robert Joseph Dole Memorial Veterans Benefits and Health
Care Improvement Act of 2022 authorized homeless veteran
programs. Under the G.I. Bill, the Digital G.I. Bill Program
will be completed by the end of fiscal year 2024. The Committee
will work with VA to ensure authorized programs are implemented
as Congress intended and review older programs to ensure they
are funded appropriately.
Effectiveness of the Transition Assistance Program
(TAP)--The Committee continues to be concerned about the
effectiveness of the TAP program, which is intended to prepare
servicemembers for their return to civilian life following
active duty. The Departments of Defense (DoD), Veterans
Affairs, and Labor (DoL) jointly manage and provide content to
the five-day course that focuses on skills needed to obtain
gainful employment and provides an understanding of the
benefits that are available to them from the VA and DoL. The
Committee will conduct stakeholder roundtables and oversight
hearings to discuss how TAP can be enhanced for transitioning
servicemembers and their families. Further, the Committee plans
to have personnel attend TAP classes to review the curriculum
that TAP counselors are teaching at the local levels and ensure
changes made to TAP in the Fiscal Year 2019 National Defense
Authorization Act and the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D.
Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act are being
implemented appropriately. Finally, the Committee will work
with the Committees on Armed Services and Education and the
Workforce to address cross-jurisdictional issues as we improve
the TAP program.
Effectiveness and Outcomes of Education and
Training Programs for Returning Veterans--The Post-9/11 G.I.
Bill has been veterans' most generous education program since
the original WWII G.I. Bill. Based on the length of service,
the program funds up to full tuition and fees at public
institutions of higher learning and about $26,381 per year at
private institutions, as well as provides a monthly living
stipend. This stipend is based on the housing allowance paid to
servicemembers at the rank of E-5 (with dependents) and the ZIP
Code of the institution where the student attends the majority
of their classes. The Committee will continue oversight of the
implementation of the Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational
Assistance Act of 2017, the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,
M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act, and the
Ensuring the Best Schools for Veterans Act of 2022.
Further, as avenues for learning and training continue to
evolve and modernize, the Committee will examine these new
programs and how they may fit into the construct and
requirements of the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill program in a post-
COVID-19 world. The Committee will also conduct oversight on
Veteran Success on Campus programs, and on the national
education call center to ensure G.I. students are receiving the
best possible service. In addition, the Committee will examine
outcome measures for users of the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill,
including graduation rates and job placement data, to ensure
the effectiveness of taxpayers' investment in our veterans'
education benefits. Finally, the Committee will work with the
State Approving Agencies to put in place policies that protect
student veterans against predatory or deceitful recruiting
practices of post-secondary institutions, such as providing
misinformation about student outcomes or encouraging veterans
to take out unnecessary private student loans.
Modernization of G.I. Bill Claims Processing--
Modernizing the processing of original and supplemental G.I.
Bill claims is long overdue. For decades, VA has relied on a
myriad of ancient legacy systems to process these claims
because previous modernization efforts have failed. The
Committee will continue to conduct oversight over the current
modernization effort called the Digital G.I. Bill system. An
outside contractor is tasked with creating and implementing of
this system as a managed service, and VA plans to roll out the
bulk of the system by late 2023. This system will automate the
process and reduce the caseworker's workload. The Committee
will closely watch the rollout of the contractor's new software
and work to protect veterans' ability to have a G.I. Bill claim
processed accurately and in a timely fashion. The Committee
will also hold the contractor and VA accountable if the program
experiences difficulties.
Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program--
VA's VR&E program provides education and training benefits for
service-connected disabled veterans who face barriers to
employment. The program funds all costs related to long and
short-term education and training and immediate job placement
services. VR&E also manages the Independent Living (IL)
program, designed to enable the most severely injured veterans
to live as independently as possible, in addition to the
Veteran Success on Campus program, which currently stations
VR&E staff at institutions of higher learning to assist
students with benefits. The Committee continues to be concerned
with counselor caseloads, rising job vacancies, and outcomes of
VR&E programs, as well as the administration of the self-
employment track of the VR&E program, which can often result in
high costs. The Committee will also conduct oversight over
management and overall effectiveness of the VR&E program, the
``eVA'' IT system, and VA's failure to provide a case
management system that has been delayed after two failed
attempts that have effectively wasted $26 million.
Loan Guaranty Service--VA's Loan Guaranty Service
provides a loan guaranty benefit to eligible veterans and
servicemembers, which enables them to purchase a home at a
competitive interest rate, without private mortgage insurance,
often without requiring a down payment. This benefit is highly
beneficial to veterans, servicemembers, and their families. The
Committee plans to conduct oversight of the home loan program
with a focus on their appraisal process as well as a new focus,
ensuring that the IT systems in place to process these loans
are modernized. Finally, the Committee intends to evaluate the
impact of high-interest rates and inflation on the veteran
homeowner and prospective home buyers and will examine ways to
make the product competitive. The Loan Guaranty Service also
administers grants under the Specially Adapted Housing (SAH)
and Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) programs. These grants,
provided to eligible veterans with permanent and total service-
connected disabilities, enable the veteran to adapt their
current home or construct a new home that allows them to live
in a home that is not obstructive to them due to their
disabilities. The Committee will continue to conduct oversight
of this program and enhancements that were made to this program
by the Ryan Kules and Paul Benne Specially Adaptive Housing
Improvement Act.
Adaptive Sports Program--This is a program
administered by VA, which provides grants to qualifying
organizations that provide adaptive sports activities and
opportunities at the local, regional, and national levels,
including Paralympic activities, to disabled veterans and
servicemembers. This program awarded $16 million in 2022. The
authorization for the Adaptive Sports Program expires on
December 31st, 2024. The Committee will continue to examine how
VA awards grants under this program and the organizations
receiving funding, as well as how VA works with local
communities and the Paralympic community to promote and enhance
adaptive sports programs for disabled veterans and
servicemembers.
Licensing and Credentialing Issues--DoD spends
billions of tax dollars to provide servicemembers with the
skills needed to complete DoD's mission. Many of those skills
translate well to civilian jobs. Unfortunately, not all states
recognize and give credit for military training to qualify for
state-licensed positions. Therefore, the training provided by
DoD is essentially wasted. The Committee will review efforts by
states and other entities to provide appropriate licenses and
credentials to qualified veterans whose military training
renders them eligible for such credentials or licenses, as well
as the progress that states are making to make certain licenses
and credentials transferrable across state lines.
Homeless Veteran Reintegration Program (HVRP)--
HVRP is a program administered by DoL's Veteran Employment and
Training Service (VETS), which provides grants to state and
local workforce investment boards, local public agencies and
nonprofit organizations, and tribal governments, including
faith-based and community organizations. The organizations that
compete and receive these grants provide homeless veterans with
occupational, classroom, and on-the-job training, as well as
job search and placement assistance. The authorization for HVRP
expires on September 30th, 2024. The Committee will conduct an
oversight hearing to examine the organizations that are
receiving these grants, how VETS is awarding these grants, and
how the program can be enhanced at the federal and state levels
to place more homeless veterans in careers. The Committee's
oversight is crucial as the Committee continues to work with VA
and ensure the number of homeless veterans continues to
decrease.
Performance of the Jobs for Veterans State Grant
Program--The Jobs for Veterans State Grant program is
administered by VETS and funds the employment of state
employees called Disabled Veteran Outreach Program Specialists
(DVOP) and Local Veteran Employment Representatives (LVER).
This program is dedicated to placing veterans in good-paying
jobs. Significant issues surround this program's inconsistent
performance across the states, and the outcome measures used to
determine performance continue to be inadequate. The Committee
will continue to review this program and the performance
outcomes of DVOPs and LVERs and conduct oversight of the
National Veterans' Training Institute (NVTI), which trains
DVOPs and LVERs on job placement and training skills for
veterans.
Homeless Veterans--The Committee will continue
oversight of how COVID-19 has impacted the services and
programs that VA grantees provide to homeless veterans and
those veterans who are at risk for homelessness. The Committee
will also review VA efforts to permanently house homeless
veterans and ensure that those veterans are receiving the wrap-
around services they need. The Committee will also ensure that
if a veteran leaves permanent housing, VA will work with the
veteran to address their needs and rehouse them as quickly as
possible. In addition, the Committee will ensure that VA is
accurately counting those veterans who have been housed and
don't leave housing. The Committee will examine the Supportive
Services for Veteran Families (SSVF), Housing and Urban
Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH)
programs, and VA's progress toward reducing veteran
homelessness. The Committee will also address the myriad of
factors underlying veteran homelessness. The Committee will
continue to oversee VA's integration efforts to support
vulnerable veterans by facilitating access to benefits, care,
and services. Finally, the Committee will continue to evaluate
the effectiveness of temporary measures passed in response to
the pandemic to support employment and homelessness programs at
the VA that are serving more individuals due to COVID-19.
SUBCOMMITTEE ON HEALTH
Authorizations of Medical Programs--The Secretary
vests in the Undersecretary for Health the authority and
responsibility for medical services, community care, medical
support and compliance, and facility maintenance and
construction programs under the authority of 38 U.S. Code,
chapters 17, 73, 74, 75, 76, 81 and 82. Except for major
medical construction projects and certain leases, annual
authorization by the Committee is not required. P.L. 117-168,
the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to
Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022, Title VII, modified
the congressional process by which major medical facility
leases are authorized, granted VA authority to enter into
agreements with academic affiliates and other entities to
acquire space for the purpose of providing healthcare resources
to veterans, modified the requirements for VA's enhanced-use
lease authority, and provided permanent authority for joint
leasing actions between DoD and VA. Additionally, Title 38
includes certain multiple-year authorizations for specific
purposes. The Committee routinely examines the programs that
have expiring authorities or sunset dates. As part of P.L. 117-
180, the Continuing Appropriations and Ukraine Supplemental
Appropriations Act, 2023, numerous health programs were
reauthorized through FY 2024. In this same legislation, VA and
DoD were authorized to continue the joint incentives program
related to healthcare resources through FY 2026.
Community Care--The Committee remains concerned
about inconsistent VA referral practices and veterans' ability
to utilize community care when in their best interest.
Eligibility for care in the community is determined in part by
designated access standards, as mandated by the VA Maintaining
Internal Systems and Strengthening Integrated Outside Networks
(MISSION) Act of 2018. The Committee will closely monitor any
adjustments made to access standard definitions. The Committee
will conduct oversight of the VA's reorganized Integrated
Veteran Care (IVC) office established to supposedly create a
seamless system for coordinating VA's direct and community care
delivery systems. Even as the Community Care Networks have
stabilized and matured, concerns still remain about network
adequacy and continuity of care. The Committee will continue to
monitor veterans' access to care and VA's processes for
monitoring the performance of the third-party administrators to
build networks of community providers and process payments to
these providers. VA's administratively burdensome appointment
scheduling process needs reform, and the Committee will
continue to conduct oversight to ensure VA improves its
administrative efficiency and network adequacy in the U.S.
territories, with particular emphasis on the highly remote
islands within the Pacific region. In addition, the Committee
will monitor VA's efforts to provide veterans greater insight
into both VA and community care appointment wait times and
availability, so veterans can make informed decisions about
where best to seek care. Finally, the Committee will continue
to monitor the baseline funding to the Medical Community Care
account to ensure funds are being used most appropriately.
Market Assessments and Infrastructure
Modernization--The Committee will continue aggressive oversight
of VA's major medical facility construction and leasing program
and consider needed actions to address VA's vast and aging
capital asset portfolio. The Committee is especially concerned
about the continued maintenance requirements of underutilized
facilities and the growing need for an expanded footprint in
areas of the country experiencing significant veteran
population growth. The MISSION Act required VA to conduct
market assessments, first to inform recommendations for an
Asset and Infrastructure Review Commission and subsequently on
a continuing basis as a strategic review. As VA seeks to begin
the process of updating market assessments for the strategic
review, the Committee will conduct oversight of these
assessments to ensure concerns about the underlying methodology
are addressed and appropriate stakeholder involvement occurs.
The Committee will explore mechanisms to best incorporate these
assessments into and reform the VA Strategic Capital Investment
Planning (SCIP) process to include better systemic metrics that
would require realignment or modernization of certain
facilities. Furthermore, given the changes made to leasing
under the PACT Act, the Committee is eager for VA to leverage
those modifications and see the impact they will have on
veterans' access to care closer to home.
Mental Health, Substance Use, and Suicide
Prevention--The Committee will continue to closely monitor VA's
mental health, substance use, and suicide prevention efforts,
particularly its new programs and the effectiveness of existing
programs. In 2020, two large veterans' mental health and
suicide prevention legislative packages became law (the
Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care
Improvement Act and the Veterans Comprehensive Prevention,
Access to Care, and Treatment (COMPACT) Act), necessitating
continued implementation oversight. This oversight effort will
also include the expanded eligibility for and operational
capacity of the Readjustment Counseling Service. The Committee
will closely monitor and provide recommendations on VA's use of
community providers and organizations to deliver mental health,
substance use, and suicide prevention services to veterans,
when VA cannot provide these services directly and when at-risk
veterans are outside VA's reach. Given ongoing issues with
timely veteran suicide data collection, analysis, and reporting
from VA, the Committee also will work with VA and stakeholders
to evaluate VA's use and dissemination of best practices in
real-time veteran suicide surveillance. The Committee also will
examine VA's substance use and addiction treatment capacity and
programming, with a focus on access and complications of
overlapping mental health issues.
Staffing, Recruitment, and Retention--The
Committee will closely examine VA's staffing, recruitment, and
retention programs and take action to correct deficiencies
within VA's overly bureaucratic and lengthy hiring processes
that hinder VA's ability to efficiently and effectively recruit
and retain high-quality employees to treat veteran patients.
VHA continues to suffer from limited human resources capacity
and weak internal control practices, both of which have
undermined VA's ability to improve the delivery of care to
veteran patients. Recent HR modernization efforts that
centralized hiring authority away from the facilities and into
the Veterans Integrated Services Networks (VISNs) and Central
Office has exacerbated an already burdensome process. The
Committee will assess how VA identifies staffing needs at the
local level, prioritizes recruitment and retention in high-need
areas, and addresses existing staffing shortages. In addition,
the Committee will examine if and how the significant increase
in the total number of VA employees over the last several years
has led to improvements in care and benefits for the veterans
VA serves. Finally, as part of the Honoring our PACT Act of
2022, Congress provided significant authorities and resources
to enhance human resources management. The Committee will
closely monitor the implementation as well as the outcomes and
impacts of these initiatives.
Pain and Medication Management, Complementary and
Integrative Health--The Committee will examine the extent to
which VA is appropriately using prescription medications to
treat veterans experiencing acute and chronic pain, and the
extent to which veterans are offered and able to access
complimentary and integrative therapies for pain management.
The effective management of pain is a critical issue for the
veteran population as data suggests that veterans are a
particularly high-risk population for prescription misuse,
substance use disorder, accidental overdose, accidents, and/or
self-inflicted injury. The Committee will scrutinize VA's
opioid safety initiative, substance use treatment programs, and
access to alternative chronic and acute pain treatments. The
Committee will also review VA's policies concerning veteran
access to substance use inpatient treatment programs as well as
assess the use and efficacy of complementary and integrative
health treatments and techniques for veterans with pain or
other conditions.
Long-Term Services and Supports--The Committee
will continue to assess VA's broad array of Long-Term Services
and Supports (LTSS) to determine whether veterans have access
to the methods of care delivery that best suit their needs. VA
has historically relied primarily upon a network of
institution-based services consisting of VA Community Living
Centers (CLCs), State Veterans Homes (SVHs), and contracted
community nursing homes; however, VA must do more to develop a
robust network of home and community-based services (HCBS) to
meet the growing demand, and preference, for non-institutional
care among its aging veteran population. The Committee will
monitor VA's progress in this area and continue supporting
authorities in allowing greater access to HCBS. Given the
growing numbers of women veterans utilizing VA services, the
Committee will review the availability and adequacy of LTSS
specific to this population. The Committee will also examine
VA's role in monitoring the quality of care and patient safety
at SVHs, and VA's role in supporting the cost of care for
veteran residents, along with SVH construction, renovation, and
maintenance.
Caregivers--Following the expansion of the Program
of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) in
October 2022 to all era veterans and their caregivers, the
Committee will closely monitor VA's implementation of the
numerous changes made to the program through regulation, as VA
attempts to standardize the program. The Committee is concerned
about the management of ``legacy'' program participants and
will continue to monitor the evolution of benefits provided to
this cohort. The Committee is also concerned about the focus on
this program and the lack of coordination in providing access
to other, possibly more appropriate, long-term-care options.
The Committee has been encouraged by reports of success with
the Veteran-Directed Home and Community Based Services and will
continue to examine the availability of geriatric home health
programs that rely on and support critical aspects of family
caregiver support.
Telehealth--The Committee will continue to assess
the effectiveness of VA's telehealth programs. Telehealth is an
increasingly important tool for improving access to care for
veteran patients. The Committee is concerned about a potential
overreliance on telehealth and potential impact on access
metrics and veteran preference. The Committee will assess VA's
efforts to provide timely and accessible care to veterans in
rural and hard-to- reach areas through tools like telehealth,
community partnerships, and other means.
Quality Care--OIG, GAO, and media reports continue
to document patient harm incidents within VHA medical
facilities. These have called into question whether VHA
leadership is carrying out all their credentialing,
privileging, and quality management responsibilities.
Specifically, the Committee is concerned about whether VHA and
its VISNs are doing enough to ensure that their medical
facilities are appropriately screening clinicians prior to
hire, monitoring providers' clinical competence while they are
employed, conducting timely investigations when concerns arise,
and reporting serious concerns about provider performance to
the National Practitioner Data Bank and state licensing boards,
as required by VHA's own policy. The Committee is encouraged by
the embrace of High Reliability Organization principles by many
VA Medical Centers and are heartened by employee engagement in
identifying ``near misses'' and potential quality of care/
patient safety concerns.
Eligibility for Care in the VA Healthcare System--
In 1996, Congress created the current VA enrollment priority
group system. Veteran eligibility for VA care has been
minimally changed since then, despite the fact that military
service, the veteran population, the delivery of care, and the
VA healthcare system have changed significantly. Many of the
most pressing issues facing veterans today concern eligibility.
The Committee will examine the appropriateness of the current
eligibility system for today's veteran population, particularly
those with character of discharge concerns, to ensure that all
veterans can receive the care that they need.
Continued Support for Women Veterans--The over
two-million women who have served in the U.S. military comprise
the fastest-growing veteran subpopulation within VA. Over
600,000 women veterans are currently enrolled for VA
healthcare, and utilization of services continues to expand. In
2020, Congress passed the Deborah Sampson Act, a compilation of
comprehensive legislation focusing on women veterans. The
Committee must continue its close implementation oversight of
this Act as well as new or enhanced services recently made
available to women veterans. The Committee's examination of
issues impacting women veterans will include, but is not
limited to: ensuring a welcoming and inclusive VA, free from
sexual harassment and assault; providing equitable access to VA
healthcare, with well-resourced access to gender-specific care,
such as mammography, gynecology, and obstetrics; research into
the impacts of military service on women veterans' physical and
mental health; and a greater focus on the special needs of
aging women veterans, to include unique health conditions,
long-term care, and caregiving.
VA Research--The Committee will aggressively
oversee the totality of VA's medical and prosthetic research
program to identify and eliminate redundancies and ensure the
dissemination of best practices and a veteran-centric research
focus. VA's Office of Research and Development (ORD) conducts
an extensive research program that is tasked with conducting
research to advance the healthcare provided by VA and to the
nation. VA's Health Services Research and Development Service
also operates 19 Centers of Innovation (COIN), built off the
work of prior Centers of Excellence, that conduct research on
specific issues concerning veteran patients. The Committee will
continue to oversee opportunities for innovation, cutting-edge
technology, veteran participation in clinical trials, and
greater use and support of the Million Veteran Program data for
public health research. Use of this data will also require
continued oversight to ensure that utilization of veterans'
data is protected and secure.
Emergency Care--In 1999, the Veterans Millennium
Health Care and Benefits Act (commonly known as the ``Mill
Bill'') established criteria to govern VA's reimbursement of
costs related to emergency care provided to veterans in non-VA
facilities for non service-connected conditions. Those criteria
are outdated and increasingly complicated for veterans, VA
staff, and emergency care providers outside of the VA
healthcare system to understand and administer, which has led
to a backlog of emergency care claims and resulted in costly
judicial proceedings. The Committee will work to simplify and
modernize these criteria to ensure the appropriate provision of
care to veterans in crisis and timely and appropriate
reimbursements to emergency care providers in the community.
VA's Fourth Mission and Participation in the
National Disaster Medical System--VA's Fourth Mission, to
assist federal and civilian partners in the event of an
emergency, received relatively little attention before the
pandemic. This role has proven critical as the American
healthcare system endured the catastrophic impact of COVID-19,
while at the same time, rural hospitals and clinics continued
to close at an alarming rate. The current process for VA to
pursue a ``Fourth Mission'' is overly bureaucratic, requiring
the approval of multiple federal agencies. Congress must
reconsider the current structure of the disaster response
framework to reflect the sheer scale of VHA's potential. VA has
shown to be a locally based leader in medical support response
in the event of natural disasters. The Committee is committed
to ensuring this capability remains a VA core competency.
Additionally, the Committee will review potential partnerships
with the Indian Health Service and Public Health Service, as
well as support the recruitment of deployable nursing personnel
to staff the mobile medical units VHA already possesses.
SUBCOMMITTEE ON OVERSIGHT AND INVESTIGATIONS
Budget and Waste--VA funding has doubled over the
last decade, and staffing has increased by over 40 percent. The
Committee will conduct oversight of waste, particularly in
contracts, redundancies, and offices that produce no value, as
part of a broader assessment of whether the VA's rate of growth
has exceeded veteran demand, whether new initiatives merit
investment, and how to implement a framework for reducing
inefficiencies in underperforming areas.
VA Supply Chain--During the early days of the
COVID 19 pandemic, supply chains around the globe failed.
Today, VA's medical supply chain is operational, but VA's
efforts to create a more resilient supply chain have been
unsuccessful. The Committee will conduct oversight of the
Executive Branch's effort to bring medical supply inventory for
crisis response under the Department of Health and Human
Services and VA's role in that effort. The Committee will also
ensure VA is following existing statutory requirements for
medical supplies made in America.
Accountable Workforce--Holding more than 400,000
staff accountable has proven difficult for VA. VA's Office of
Accountability and Whistleblower Protection (OAWP) has failed
to deliver robust discipline of senior executives and managers,
and rulings by the courts and the Merit Systems Protection
Board have limited the Secretary's authority to hold employees
accountable for poor performance or misconduct under 38 U.S.
Code Sec. 714. The Committee will conduct oversight of OAWP, to
make sure VA whistleblowers are protected from retaliation
while holding their superiors accountable. The Committee will
also determine where laws can be reinforced to manifest a
responsible workforce dedicated to VA's mission.
Oversight of Contractors--VA's annual contract
spending has reached more than $38 billion, and there are
nearly as many VA support contractors as federal employees in
many offices. Additionally, VA received billions in COVID 19
emergency appropriations. The Committee believes that a culture
of overreliance on contractors, revolving door influence, and
failed projects with big paydays has taken hold. The Committee,
in concert with budget analysis and bureaucratic reforms, will
aggressively investigate the reasons for the proliferation of
contractors, the effectiveness of the massive contractor
workforce, and whether the value gained matches the dollars
spent.
Addressing Violent Crime--From fiscal year 2018 to
fiscal year 2021, violent crime rates on VA campuses increased
significantly. The Committee will continue oversight of the VA
Police Force and violent crime rate, to drive process
improvements and protect the health and safety of veterans and
VA employees.
Department of Defense-VA Agreements--DoD
(principally the Defense Logistics Agency) and VA have executed
numerous agreements, partnerships, and funding arrangements. VA
typically pays DoD to utilize its systems, services, or
contracts. Our oversight will evaluate the effectiveness and
return on investment of these arrangements.
Human Resources--VA has centralized its human
resources functions at the Central Office and VISNs. In an
effort to create uniformity, VA has hamstrung local VA
directors trying to fill vacancies, has slowed down the
onboarding process significantly, and increased staff
frustration with human resources. The Committee will examine
this decision and analyze the impacts to local VA facilities
and veterans.
SUBCOMMITTEE ON TECHNOLOGY MODERNIZATION
Enterprise Technology Modernization Programs--The
Committee will continue overseeing the effectiveness of VA's
major programs and projects to modernize technology and
business operations.
Electronic Health Record Modernization--
The Oracle Cerner electronic health record system is
now live at five sites, significantly impairing their
operations. The 2021 strategic review substantiated the
technical flaws but failed to address most of them
directly, and VA has again paused additional
implementations through June 2023. An independent cost
estimate forecasts implementation costs at nearly $39
billion over 13 years, up from $16 billion over 10
years. We oppose further implementations until the
system is significantly improved and the five sites
currently using it have normalized, and we have begun
engaging with VA and Oracle Cerner on the status of
individual technical improvements.
Digital G.I. Bill--The Digital G.I.
Bill's initial results are encouraging, and we are
closely monitoring how much automation can ultimately
be accomplished and how key legacy systems will be
phased out.
VBA Systems and Disability Compensation
Automation--VBA has initiated automation pilots at a
handful of Regional Offices, targeting a handful of
categories of claims. Most are limited to assistive
tools or job aids. Our oversight will focus on
advancing automation to eliminate repetitive tasks and
enhance employees' effectiveness, while always
preserving human decision-making. Relatedly, the
Veterans Benefits Management System and other key VBA
systems must be modernized in a way that completely
eliminates siloed, legacy systems and is compatible
with the automation strategy.
Financial Management Business
Transformation--VA has been implementing its new
financial system for more than four years and has
completed NCA and several components of VBA. The
system's cost estimate is rising, and its viability
remains unproven until VHA medical centers adopt it.
Several hurdles and long overdue decisions threaten the
program's success, particularly which inventory
management system to interface with and how to create
that interface. The Committee believes the Financial
Management Business Transformation program is
worthwhile and can succeed, though this is not assured,
and our oversight focuses on clearing these roadblocks.
Human Capital Modernization--VA is
preparing to replace its human resources management
software, which its publisher will no longer support,
and add new capabilities. This project's scope is
uncertain, and its cost and schedule are unknown. The
Committee's oversight aims to clarify these key
questions before the VA proceeds and determine whether
and how this system's design will align with the human
resources organizational centralization.
Supply Chain Management Modernization--
VA will soon purchase a new supply chain management
system after abandoning an effort to implement the
Department of Defense's Defense Medical Logistics
Standards Support (DMLSS) system. This project's scope
appears to be excessively large and ambitious,
increasing risk. The Committee's oversight focuses on
determining whether VA adequately understands its own
requirements and has clearly expressed and prioritized
them. This project's cost and schedule also remain
unknown.
Authorizations of Enterprise Technology
Modernization Programs--Within memory, Congress has not
authorized any of VA's enterprise technology modernization
programs, or any other specific IT programs. The Secretary
vests in the Assistant Secretary for Information and Technology
(Chief Information Officer) with the responsibility for
``information management functions'' under the authority of 38
U.S. Code 308(b)(5). Additionally, the Chief Information
Officer is designated under 38 U.S. Code 310. Both sections
reference 44 U.S. Code 3506, which lays out the general Chief
Information Officer responsibilities that are common across
agencies. VA presumably carries out its IT programs under these
organic authorities. The Committee will individually consider
authorizing each new or proposed enterprise technology
modernization program. During the 117th Congress, Committee
members introduced H.R. 2420, the Overseeing the GI Bill Act of
2021 to authorize the Digital G.I. Bill program and H.R. 9091,
the VA Supply Chain Management System Authorization Act to
authorize the forthcoming Supply Chain Management Modernization
program. Neither bill was enacted. However, last Congress, the
Department of Veterans Affairs Information Technology Reform
Act of 2022 (Section 403 of the Joseph Maxwell Cleland and
Robert Joseph Dole Memorial Veterans Benefits and Health Care
Improvement Act of 2022) was enacted. This legislation requires
VA to report the estimated costs, schedules, and performance
objectives of each major IT project (defined as having life
cycle costs exceeding $1 billion) before commencing them. The
Committee intends to use this mechanism to vet each such new
project for authorization. Specifically, the Committee will
either authorize or reject the Supply Chain Modernization and
Human Capital Modernization projects.
Appointment Scheduling Technology--The Committee
will be closely monitoring VA's progress in modernizing systems
used by appointment schedulers and will ensure VA is providing
veterans greater ability to directly self-schedule
appointments, as well as view expected wait times for in-house
vs. community care appointments.
Information Technology and Office of Information &
Technology--Sixteen years after VA IT activities were
centralized in the Office of Information & Technology (OIT),
the office still struggles to meet the Department's rapidly
growing IT needs. After conducting a deep dive into OIT's
budget last Congress, the Committee concluded that it is not
structured in a way that accurately represents OIT's activities
or needs. Successive reorganizations have not resolved unclear
or overlapping lines of responsibility, persistent customer
complaints, and inconsistent management practices. Nonetheless,
OIT has made some progress introducing reusable technology
platforms, migrating applications to the cloud, and making
available low-code/no-code development tools to its customers.
The Committee's oversight of OIT will focus on aligning its
structure, budget, and processes to support VA's needs better.
Cybersecurity--VA struggles to clear multiple
repeat findings in the annual Federal Information Security
Modernization Act audit, the annual financial statement audit,
and OIG inspections. OIT's cybersecurity approach appears to
focus on continuous monitoring and detection, but
vulnerabilities abound due to inconsistent management and
policy implementation. The Committee's oversight focuses on
making cybersecurity practices more consistent across VA,
identifying new vulnerabilities caused by digitizing formerly
manually processes, integration with other agencies, and
keeping unapproved IT and medical devices off VA networks. The
Committee will also continue to probe VA's inability to
identify what is on their networks at facilities and push to
ensure that shadow IT is identified, and if possible, mitigated
with enterprise solutions.
Data Management and Privacy--Veterans' data must
be protected from loss, theft, and monetization. The
Committee's oversight will examine the agreements and
safeguards VA has in place with its technology vendors and
partners, those vendors and partners' practices, and VA's track
record of monitoring their activities and enforcing the
safeguards. The Committee will also oversee errors by VA
employees that expose veterans' protected data to loss, theft,
or monetization.
MANDATORY SPENDING
In accordance with clause 2(d)(2)(E) of Rule X, the
Committee will work to limit unintended consequences of the
Cost of War Toxic Exposures Fund, section 805 of P.L. 117-168,
the Honoring our PACT Act of 2022. According to the
Congressional Budget Office, the Toxic Exposures Fund now
encompasses programs or activities funded by the following
accounts: Medical Community Care, Medical Support and
Compliance, Medical Services, Medical and Prosthetic Research,
Veterans Electronic Health Care Record, General Operating
Expenses (VBA), General Administration, Information Technology,
and Board of Veterans Appeals. Therefore, portions of these
accounts which had been entirely discretionary may now become
partially mandatory, and any legislation creating or modifying
programs or activities funded by these accounts will receive a
mandatory score. The Committee will continue to oversee the use
of the Fund by VA to ensure that it supports PACT Act
implementation, and the care of veterans exposed to toxic
substances. The Committee will also continue to engage with the
Budget and Appropriations Committees to assess the long-term
impacts of the Fund and resolve any impediments to the
Committee's ability to carry out its legislative
responsibilities.
ACTIVITIES OF THE FULL COMMITTEE
LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITIES
BUSINESS MEETINGS
Full Committee Business Meeting--Organization of the 118th
Congress. On February 8, 2023, the Committee on Veterans'
Affairs met to formally organize the Committee's membership and
to adopt the rules of the Committee for the 118th Congress.
Full Committee Business Meeting--Committee's Authorization
and Oversight Plan. On February 28, 2023, the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs met to consider the Committee's authorization
and oversight plan for the 118th Congress.
Full Committee Business Meeting--Committee's Authorization
of the Women Veteran Task Force. On March 23, 2023, the
Committee on Veterans' Affairs met to consider the Committee's
authorization of the Women Veteran Task Force.
Full Committee Business Meeting--Committee's Consideration
to Authorize a Subpoena. On January 11, 2024, the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs met to consider a resolution to authorize a
subpoena to the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs
for the production of documents and communications.
Full Committee Business Meeting--Committee's Consideration
to Authorize a Subpoena and Democratic membership of the
subcommittees. On September 10, 2024, the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs met to consider a resolution to authorize a
subpoena to the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs
for the production of documents and communications; and to
authorize Democratic membership of Rep. Timothy Kennedy of the
subcommittees of the Full Committee.
MARKUPS
Full Committee Markup. On April 28, 2023, the Full
Committee held a markup on an amendment in the nature of a
substitute to the H.R. 1669, VET-TEC Authorization Act; H.R.
562, Improving Veterans Access to Congressional Services Act of
2023; an amendment in the nature of a substitute to H.R. 1089,
VA Medical Center Facility Transparency Act; an amendment in
the nature of a substitute to H.R. 1530, Veterans Benefits
Improvement Act; H.R. 1529, Veterans' Cost-of-Living Adjustment
Act; H.R. 1256, Veterans Health Administration Leadership
Transformation Act; and H.R. 366, Korean American VALOR Act.
H.R. 1529 and H.R. 366 were ordered reported to the House,
without amendment. H.R. 1669, H.R. 562, H.R. 1089, H.R. 1530,
and H.R. 1256 were ordered reported to the House, as amended.
Full Committee Markup. On July 26, 2023, the Full Committee
held a markup on an amendment in the nature of a substitute to
H.R. 3848, HOME Act; an amendment in the nature of a substitute
to H.R. 3943, Servicemember Employment Protection Act of 2023;
an amendment in the nature of a substitute to H.R. 3874,
Veterans Education Assistance Improvement Act; H.R. 3933, TAP
Promotion Act; H.R. 4278, Restore Department of Veterans
Affairs Accountability Act; an amendment in the nature of a
substitute to H.R. 4461, Modernizing Department of Veteran
Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act; an amendment in
the nature of a substitute to H.R. 3581, COPE Act; an amendment
in the nature of a substitute to H.R. 1767, to amend title 38,
United States Code, to provide that educational assistance paid
under Department of Veterans Affairs educational assistance
programs to an individual who pursued a program or course of
education that was suspending or terminated for certain reasons
shall not be charged against the entitlement of the individual,
and for other purposes; H.R. 3981, Veterans Education Oversight
Expansion Act; an amendment in the nature of a substitute to
H.R. 542, Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act of 2023; and an
amendment in the nature of a substitute to H.R. 984, Commitment
to Veteran Support and Outreach Act. H.R. 3848, H.R. 3943, H.R.
3874, H.R. 4278, H.R. 4461, H.R. 3581, H.R. 1767, H.R. 3981,
H.R. 542, and H.R. 984 were ordered reported to the House, as
amended. H.R. 3933 was ordered reported to the House, without
amendment.
The following groups submitted a letter of support: Joint
Unions and Multi-VSOs.
Full Committee Markup. On December 5, 2023, the Full
Committee held a markup on an amendment in the nature of a
substitute to H.R. 522, Deliver for Veterans Act; an amendment
in the nature of a substitute to H.R. 3738, To amend title 38,
United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans
Affairs the Veterans Economic Opportunity and Transition
Administration, and for other purposes; an amendment in the
nature of a substitute to H.R. 5914, To amend title 38, United
States Code, to improve the processes to approve programs of
education for purposes of the educational assistance programs
of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes;
H.R. 3722, as amended, Daniel J. Harvey, Jr. and Adam Lambert
Improving Servicemember Transition to Reduce Veteran Suicide
Act; H.R. 5938, as amended, Veterans Exam Expansion Act of
2023; an amendment in the nature of a substitute to H.R. 1753,
To ensure that certain members of the Armed Forces who served
in female cultural support teams receive proper credit for such
service; an amendment in the nature of a substitute to H.R.
5890, Review Every Veterans Claim Act of 2023; an amendment in
the nature of a substitute to H.R. 5785, To amend title 38,
United States Code, to modify the requirements of the Edith
Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship; an amendment in the nature of a
substitute to H.R. 3790, Justice for ALS Veterans Act of 2023;
H.R. 4016, Veteran Fraud Reimbursement; and H.R. 4190, as
amended, Restoring Benefits to Defrauded Veterans Act. H.R.
522, H.R. 3738, H.R. 5914, H.R. 3722, H.R. 5938, H.R. 1753,
H.R. 5890, H.R. 5785, and H.R. 3790 were ordered reported to
the House, as amended. H.R. 4016 and H.R. 4190 were ordered
reported to the House, without amendment.
Full Committee Markup. On May 1, 2024, the Full Committee
held a markup on an amendment in the nature of a substitute to
H.R. 7323, Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserves Tuition
Fairness Act; an amendment in the nature of a substitute to
H.R. 7643, Veterans Congressional Work Study Act of 2024; an
amendment in the nature of a substitute to H.R. 705, Veterans
2nd Amendment Protection Act; an amendment in the nature of a
substitute to H.R. 5870, Veteran Appeals Transparency Act of
2024; an amendment in the nature of a substitute to H.R. 7816,
Clear Communications for Veterans Claims Act; an amendment in
the nature of a substitute to H.R. 7150, Survivor Benefits
Delivery Improvement Act of 2024; an amendment in the nature of
a substitute to H.R. 7734, Personnel Integrity in Veterans
Affairs Act; an amendment in the nature of a substitute to H.R.
6452, Veterans Scam and Fraud Evasion Act; an amendment in the
nature of a substitute to H.R. 6874, VA WEB Act; an amendment
in the nature of a substitute to H.R. 7342, Veterans
Accessibility Advisory Committee Act; H.R. 6538, VA Correct
Compensation Act; an amendment in the nature of a substitute to
H.R. 6531, TRAIN VA Employees Act; an amendment in the nature
of a substitute to H.R. 4424, Vietnam Veterans Liver Fluke
Cancer Study Act; an amendment in the nature of a substitute to
H.R. 2499, VA Supply Chain Management System Authorization Act;
an amendment in the nature of a substitute to H.R. 6324, FY24
VA Major Medical Facility Authorization Act; Lease Resolutions;
H.R. 7653, Veterans Employment Readiness Yield (VERY) Act of
2024; H.R. 7100, Prioritizing Veterans' Survivors Act; H.R.
7777, Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of
2024; H.R. 2911, Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families
Act of 2023; H.R. 7347, To amend title 38, United States ode,
to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to report on
whether the Secretary will include certain psychedelic drugs in
the formulary of the Department of Veterans Affairs; and H.R.
5794, VA Peer Review Neutrality Act. H.R. 7323, H.R. 7643, H.R.
705, H.R. 5870, H.R. 7816, H.R. 7150, H.R. 7734, H.R. 6452,
H.R. 6874, H.R. 7342, H.R. 6531, H.R. 4424, H.R. 2499, and H.R.
6324, were ordered reported to the House, as amended. H.R.
6538, H.R. 7653, H.R. 7100, H.R. 7777, H.R. 2911, H.R. 7347,
H.R. 5794, and the Lease Resolutions, were ordered reported to
the House, without amendment.
The following groups submitted letters of support: Veterans
of Foreign Wars of the U.S., The American Legion, Senior
Executives Association, American Federation of Government
Employees, AFL CIO, and Disabled American Veterans.
LEGISLATIVE HEARINGS
Full Committee Hearing--``Committee on Veterans' Affairs
Bipartisan Member Day Hearing''
On June 22, 2023, the Full Committee met in open session to
receive testimony from Members of Congress on legislation and
veterans' issues within the Committee's jurisdiction for the
118th Congress.
There were three witness panels. The following Members
testified on the first panel: Representative Derek Kilmer
(Washington); Representative Pat Ryan (New York); and
Representative Keith Self (Texas).
The following Members testified on the second panel:
Representative Kim Schrier (Washington); Representative Jasmine
Crockett (Texas); and Representative Lou Correa (California).
The following Members testified on the third panel:
Representative Rudy Yakym (Indiana); Representative Abigail
Spanberger (Virginia); Representative Eric Sorensen (Illinois);
Representative Delia Ramirez (Illinois); and Representative
Jack Bergman (Michigan).
The following members submitted statements for the record:
Representative Marilyn Strickland (Washington), Representative
Marcy Kaptur (Ohio), Representative Brad Wenstrup (Ohio), and
Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (Washington).
Full Committee Legislative Hearing--``H.R. 705 and Discussion Draft:
Ernest Peltz Accrued Veterans Benefits Act''
On July 18, 2023, the Full Committee met in open session to
conduct a legislative hearing on H.R. 705, the ``Veterans 2nd
Amendment Protection Act'' and a Discussion Draft: Ernest Peltz
Accrued Veterans Benefits Act''. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Mr. Ron Burke, Deputy Under
Secretary, Policy & Oversight, Veterans Benefits
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Kevin
Friel, Deputy Director, Pension & Fiduciary Services, Veterans
Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs;
and Mr. Dave Barrans, Chief Counsel, Benefits Law Group, Office
of General Counsel, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Dr.
Jeffrey Swanson, PhD, Professor in Psychiatry and Behavioral
Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine; Mr. Bob
``Shoebob'' Carey, Captain, US Navy (Ret), Chairman and Chief
Bottle Washer, National Defense Committee; Mr. Cole Lyle,
Executive Director, Mission Roll Call; and Ms. Kristina Keenan,
Deputy Director for National Legislative Service, Veterans of
Foreign Wars of the United States.
Full Committee Legislative Hearing--``H.R. 7738, Toxic Exposure Fund
Improvement Act of 2024''
On March 21, 2024, the Full Committee met in open session
to conduct a legislative hearing on H.R. 7738, ``Toxic Exposure
Fund Improvement Act of 2024''. The following witnesses
testified: The Honorable Jon Rychalski, Assistant Secretary for
Management and Chief Financial Officer, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Ms. Laura Duke, Chief Financial Officer,
Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; and Ms. Lasheeco Graham, Chief Financial Officer,
Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs.
OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES
Full Committee Hearing--``Building an Accountable VA: Applying
Lessons Learned to Drive Future Success''
On February 28, 2023, the Full Committee met in open
session to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the
consequences of disengaged leadership, the implementation and
state of major U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
programs, and how Congressional oversight would hold VA
accountable to improve care and benefits for veterans.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: the Honorable Michael Missal, Inspector General,
Office of the Inspector General, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; the Honorable Gene Dodaro, Comptroller General of the
United States, Government Accountability Office; the Honorable
Shereef Elnahal, M.D., Under Secretary for Health, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Michael Frueh, Principal
Deputy Under Secretary for Benefits, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; and the Honorable Matthew Quinn, Under
Secretary for Memorial Affairs, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs.
The following groups submitted statement for the record:
Concerned Veterans of America, American Federation of
Government Employees, AFL-CIO, America's Warrior Partnership,
and Student Veterans of America.
Full Committee Hearing--``Joint House and Senate Committees on
Veterans' Affairs Hearing to receive the Legislative
Presentation of the Disabled American Veterans''
On February 28, 2023, the Full Committee held a joint
hearing with the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee to receive
the legislative priorities of the Disabled American Veterans
(DAV), who presented their legislative priorities to the House
and Senate Veterans' Affairs Committees for fiscal year 2023.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses from
DAV testified: Mr. Joseph Parsetich, National Commander; Mr. J.
Marc Burgess, National Adjutant; Mr. Barry Jesinoski, Executive
Director, National Headquarters; Mr. Edward R. Reese, Jr.,
Executive Director, Washington Headquarters; Mr. Jim Marszalek,
DAV National Service Director; Ms. Joy Ilem, DAV National
Legislative Director; Mr. John Kleindienst, National Director
of Voluntary Service; Mr. Ryan Burgos, National Employment
Director; and Ms. Darlene Spence, Auxiliary Commander.
Full Committee Hearing--``Joint House and Senate Committees on
Veterans' Affairs Hearing to receive the Legislative
Presentation of The American Legion and Multi-VSOs''
On March 1, 2023, the Full Committee held a joint hearing
with the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee to receive the
legislative priorities of The American Legion (TAL) and Multi
VSOs: Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), Student Veterans of
America (SVA), Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA),
National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs
(NASDVA), Black Veterans Empowerment Council (BVEC), Vietnam
Veterans of America (VVA), Fleet Reserve Association (FRA),
National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), and National
Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS), who presented
their legislative priorities to the House and Senate Veterans'
Affairs Committees for 2023.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses from
TAL testified on the first panel: Mr. Vincent J. Troiola,
National Commander; Mr. Chanin Nuntavong, National Executive
Director; Mr. Lawrence Montreuil, Legislative Director; Mr.
James La Coursiere, Chairman of the Legislative Commission; Mr.
Autrey James, Chairman of the Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation
Commission; Mr. Jay Bowen, Chairman of the Veterans Employment
and Education Commission; and Mr. Joe Sharpe, Director of
Veterans Employment and Education.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Charlie Brown, National President, PVA; Mr. Jared Lyon,
National President & Chief Executive Officer, SVA; Mr. Jeremy
Butler, Chief Executive Officer, IAVA; Mr. James S. Hartsell,
President, NASDVA; Mr. Shawn L. Deadwiler, Interim Director,
BVEC; Mr. Jack McManus, National President, VVA; Mr.
Christopher J. Slawinski, National Executive Director, FRA; Ms.
Angela Pratt, Co-Chair, Veterans Committee, NCAI; and Brig.
Gen. J. Roy Robinson (Ret.), President, NGAUS.
Full Committee Hearing--``Joint House and Senate Committees on
Veterans' Affairs Hearing to receive the Legislative
Presentation of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United
States and Multi-VSOs''
On March 8, 2023, the Full Committee held a joint hearing
with the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee to receive the
legislative priorities of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the
United States (VFW) and Multi VSOs: Jewish War Veterans of the
U.S.A. (JWV), Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), Tragedy Assistance
Program for Survivors (TAPS), Military Officers Association of
America (MOAA), American Veterans (AMVETS), Gold Star Wives of
America, Inc., Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH),
Blinded Veterans Association (BVA), and National Association of
County Veterans Service Officers (NACVSO), who presented their
legislative priorities to the House and Senate Veterans'
Affairs Committees for fiscal year 2022.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses from
the VFW testified on the first panel: Mr. Timothy Borland,
Commander-in-Chief; Mr. Ryan Gallucci, Executive Director of
the VFW Washington Office; Mr. Patrick Murray, National
Legislative Director; Mr. Michael Figlioli, National Service
Director; and Ms. Deborah Johnson, Legislative Committee Chair.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Col.
Nelson Mellitz, USAF (Ret.), JWV; LTG Michael S. Linnington,
USA (Ret.), WWP; Ms. Bonnie Carroll, President and Founder,
TAPS; Mr. Cory Titus, Director of Veteran Benefits and Guard/
Reserve Affairs, Government Relations, MOAA; Mr. Donald McLean,
National Commander, AMVETS; Ms. Tamra Sipes, President, Gold
Star Wives of America, Inc.; Mr. Christopher Vedvick, National
Commander, MOPH; Mr. Joseph D. McNeil, Sr., National President,
BVA; and Mr. Michael McLaughlin, Legislative Chairman, NACVSO.
Full Committee Hearing--``U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Budget
Request for Fiscal Years 2024 and 2025''
On March 23, 2023, the Full Committee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs' fiscal years 2024 and 2025 budget request.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs requested $325.1
billion for fiscal year 2024, which was an increase of $16.6
billion (5.4 percent) over fiscal year 2023. The Committee
examined VA's discretionary and mandatory budget requests and
the increase in the Toxic Exposure Fund.
The Honorable Denis. R. McDonough, Secretary, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs testified before the Committee.
Full Committee Hearing--``COVID-19 Supplemental Funding: Did it
Protect and Improve Veteran Care?''
On May 23, 2023, the Full Committee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine how the U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs spent the roughly $36.7 billion in combined
supplemental appropriations they received in the Families First
Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), the Coronavirus Aid, Relief,
and Economic Security (CARES) Act, and the American Rescue Plan
(ARP) Act. The Committee questioned whether VA used the funding
effectively to protect and improve veteran care.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Mr. John Rychalski, Assistant Secretary for
Management and Chief Financial Officer, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Ms. Laura Duke, Chief Financial Officer,
Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Mr. Robert McDivitt, Network Director, VISN 23, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; The Honorable Michael Missal,
Inspector General, Office of Inspector General, U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs; and Ms. Whitney Bell, President, National
Association of State Veterans Homes.
The following group submitted a statement for the record:
National Coalition for Homeless Veterans.
Full Committee Hearing--``VA Electronic Health Record Modernization:
Get Well Soon?''
On September 14, 2023, the Full Committee met in open
session to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs' ongoing efforts to rehabilitate
the five VA medical centers and their associated clinics in
Washington, Oregon, and Ohio that have implemented the Oracle
Cerner electronic health record (EHR) system. The Committee
considered whether the facilities have returned to normal
productivity and operating levels, what resources or changes
are needed, and how efforts progressed to attain those levels.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Dr. Neil Evans, M.D., Acting Program Executive
Director, Electronic Health Record Modernization Integration
Office, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Scott Kelter,
Director, Jonathan M. Wainwright (Walla Walla, Washington) VA
Medical Center, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Dr. Robert
Fischer, M.D., Director, Mann-Grandstaff (Spokane, Washington)
VA Medical Center, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms.
Thandiwe Nelson-Brooks, Associate Director, Roseburg, Oregan VA
Medical Center, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Dr.
Meredith A. Arensman, M.D., Chief of Staff, Chalmers P. Wylie
(Columbus, Ohio) VA Ambulatory Care Center, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs.
The following individual submitted a statement for the
record: Ms. Teresa D. Boyd, D.O.
Full Committee Hearing--``Veterans Serving Veterans: The Impact of
America's Businesses on Veteran Employment and Opportunity''
On November 7, 2023, the Full Committee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to highlight and recognize the
significant contributions of veterans to American businesses
and the economy. The Committee also highlighted businesses that
focus on creating employment opportunities for veterans and
military spouses as well as small businesses that have been
established by veterans. The Committee examined ways to improve
outreach to veterans during the transition process and
discussed ways to reduce any barriers to veteran employment and
the creation of veteran-owned small businesses.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Mr. Tommy Jones, Senior Director,
Military and Veteran Affairs, Walmart; Mr. Eric Eversole,
President, Hiring Our Heroes: Mr. Michael McCoy, Veteran
Recruitment, Verizon; and Ms. Erin Izen, Senior Director,
Workforce Programs, Home Depot.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Joe Gelardi, President and Chief Executive Officer, Vectrona,
LLC; and Mr. Chris Maynor, Owner, Daniel Deans.
Full Committee Hearing--``Rural Access: Is VA Meeting All Veterans
Where They Live?''
On January 11, 2024, the Full Committee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the Department of
Veterans Affairs' efforts to provide access to healthcare and
benefits to veterans in rural areas. Specifically, the
Committee considered: the role of the Office of Rural Health;
the provision and efficacy of rural telehealth; rural veteran
homelessness and the adequacy of grant and per diem rates for
homeless veterans; access to healthcare providers; challenges
accessing compensation and pension exams; and the use of mobile
health units.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: The Honorable Shereef Elnahal,
Under Secretary for Health, Veterans Health Administration,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; The Honorable Joshua
Jacobs, Under Secretary for Benefits, Veterans Benefits
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. John
Boerstler, Chief Veterans Experience Officer, Veterans
Experience Office, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Ms.
Alyssa Hundrup, Director, Health Care, U.S. Government
Accountability Office.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Dr.
Buu Nygren, President, The Navajo Nation; Mr. Jon Lovald, Chief
Operating Officer, Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans;
Ms. Marisa Schultz, Illinois Veterans; and Dr. Mark Holmes,
Director, Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research
and North Carolina Rural Health Research Center, The University
of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology, Alzheimer's
Impact Movement, American Nurses Association, American Society
of Anesthesiologists, ATA Action, Center for Healthcare Quality
& Payment Reform, Neuroflow, Leidos QTC Health Services, U.S.
Vets Prescott, and Western Governors Association.
Full Committee Hearing--``The One Percent: Supporting America's
Surviving Military Family Community''
On January 30, 2024, the Full Committee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine gaps in the U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs' outreach to survivors
concerning benefits, processing of survivors' compensation
claims, delivery of education benefits, and provision of health
care, including physical and mental health, for survivors.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: The Honorable Joshua Jacobs,
Under Secretary for Benefits, Veterans Benefits Administration,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Kevin Friel, Deputy
Director, Pension and Fiduciary Service, Veterans Benefits
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Dr.
Mark Upton, Deputy to the Deputy Under Secretary for Health,
Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Ms.
Kaanan Mackey-Fugler, Surviving Spouse of Matthew Mackey; Ms.
Gabriella Kubinyi, Surviving Spouse of Jeffrey Ferren, Veterans
of Foreign Wars; Ms. Ashlynne Haycock-Lohmann, Deputy Director,
Government and Legislative Affairs, Tragedy Assistance Program
for Survivors; and Ms. Kelly B. Hruska, Government Relations
Director, National Military Family Association.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Ms. Laura LeHigh, Disabled Veterns of America, Fleet Reserve
Association, and Paralyzed Veterans of America.
Full Committee Hearing--``VA's HR Office: Did Leaders Ignore and
Perpetuate Sexual Harassment?''
On February 14, 2024, the Full Committee met in open
session to conduct an oversight hearing to examine sexual
harassment and misconduct allegations within the Office of
Resolution Management, Diversity & Inclusion (ORMDI), an office
under the Assistant Secretary for Human Resources and
Administration/Operations, Security and Preparedness (HRA/OSP).
Chairman Bost wrote to the VA making the Secretary aware of
these allegations. The Committee's investigation focused on the
information VA was compelled to produce under the January 12th
subpoena, and during the hearing, the Committee examined when
VA leaders first became aware of these allegations and what
they did about them.
There were two witness panels. The following witness
testified on the first panel: The Honorable Denis McDonough,
Secretary, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Ms.
Cassandra Law, Assistant Secretary, Human Resources and
Administration/Operations, Security and Preparedness, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr. Bruce Gipe, Acting
Assistant Secretary, Office of Accountability and Whistleblower
Protection, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses were invited to the second panel
but did not show up to testify: Mr. Archie Davis, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Gary Richardson, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Gina Grosso; and Mr. Harvey
Johnson.
Full Committee Hearing--``Joint House and Senate Committees on
Veterans' Affairs Hearing to receive the Legislative
Presentation of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United
States & Multi-VSOs''
On March 6, 2024, the Full Committee held a joint hearing
with the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee to receive the
legislative priorities of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the
United States (VFW) and Multi-VSOs: Paralyzed Veterans of
America (PVA), Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), National
Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs (NASDVA),
Mission Roll Call (MRC), Blue Star Families (BSF), Iraq and
Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), Blinded Veterans
Association (BVA), Service Women's Action Network (SWAN),
Student Veterans of America (SVA), and American Veterans
(AMVETS).
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses from
VFW testified on the first panel: Mr. Duane Sarmiento,
Commander-in-Chief; Mr. Ryan Gallucci, Executive Director of
the VFW Washington Office; Mr. Patrick Murray, National
Legislative Director; Mr. Michael Figlioli, National Service
Director; and Mr. Stanley Borusiewicz, Legislative Committee
Chairman.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Robert Thomas, National President, PVA; LTG Michael S.
Linnington, USA (Retired), Chief Executive Officer, WWP; Mr.
Dennis Wimer, President, NASDVA; Mr. Jim Whaley, Chief
Executive Officer, MRC; Ms. Kathy Roth-Douquet, Chief Executive
Officer, BSF; Ms. Allison Jaslow, Chief Executive Officer,
IAVA; Mr. Paul Mimms, National President, BVA; Colonel Lorry M.
Fenner, USAF (Retired), SWAN; Mr. Jared Lyon, National
President & Chief Executive Officer, SVA; and Mr. William
``Bill'' Clark, National Commander, AMVETS.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Military Order of the Purple Heart, Quality of Life Foundation,
and Representative Deila Ramirez (Illinois).
Full Committee Hearing--``Joint House and Senate Committees on
Veterans' Affairs Hearing to receive the Legislative
Presentation of the Disabled American Veterans''
On March 7, 2024, the Full Committee held a joint hearing
with the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee to receive the
legislative priorities of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses from
DAV testified: Ms. Nancy Espinosa, National Commander; Mr.
Barry Jesinoski, National Adjutant; Mr. Bryan ``Cody'' Van
Boxel, Executive Director, National Headquarters; Mr. Edward R.
Reese, Jr., Executive Director, Washington Headquarters; Mr.
Jim Marszalek, DAV National Service Director; Ms. Joy Ilem, DAV
National Legislative Director; Mr. John Kleindienst, National
Director of Voluntary Service; Mr. Ryan Burgos, National
Employment Director; and Ms. AnnMarie Hurley, Auxiliary
National Commander.
Full Committee Hearing--``Joint House and Senate Committees on
Veterans' Affairs Hearing to receive the Legislative
Presentation of The American Legion & Multi-VSOs''
On March 13, 2024, the Full Committee held a joint hearing
with the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee to receive the
legislative priorities of The American Legion (TAL) and Multi-
VSOs: Jewish War Veterans of the U.S.A. (JWV), Tragedy
Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), National Coalition for
Homeless Veterans (NCHV), Military Officers Association of
America (MOAA), National Association of County Veterans Service
Officers (NACVSO), National Coalition of American Indians
(NCAI), Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), National Guard
Association of the United States (NGAUS), and Fleet Reserve
Association (FRA).
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses from
TAL testified on the first panel: Mr. Daniel J. Seehafer,
National Commander; Mr. Chanin Nuntavong, National Executive
Director; Ms. Patricia Harris, Chairwoman, Legislative
Commission; Ms. Julia Mathis, Director, Legislative Division;
Mr. Autrey James, Chairman, Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation
Commission; Ms. Tiffany Ellet, Director, Veterans Affairs &
Rehabilitation Division; Mr. John Bowen, Chairman, Veterans
Employment& Education Commission; and Mr. Joe Sharpe, Director,
Veterans Employment & Education Division.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: COL
Barry Lischinsky, USA, Retired, National Commander, JWV; Ms.
Rebecca Harrison Mullaney, Surviving Spouse of Army Captain Ian
Morrison, TAPS; Ms. Kathryn Monet, Chief Executive Officer,
NCHV; Commander Rene Campos, USN, Retired, Senior Director of
Government Relations for Veterans Wounded Warrior Care, MOAA;
Mr. Michael McLaughlin, Legislative Director, NASDVA; Mr.
Melvin Sheldon, Jr., Alternate Vice President--Northwest
Region, NCAI; Mr. Jack McManus, National President, VVA; Major
General Frank McGinn, Retired, NGAUS; and Mr. John S. Handzuk,
National President, FRA.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Mr. Jose D. Acevedo, American Defenders of Bataan and
Corregidor Memorial Society, Black Veterans Empowerment Council
Inc., Gold Star Wives of America, Inc., D'Aniello Institute for
Veterans & Military Families, Military-Veterans Advocacy,
MinorityVets, Modern Military Association of America, Reserve
Organization of America, and Veterans Education Success.
Full Committee Hearing--``U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Budget
Request for Fiscal Years 2025 and 2026''
On April 11, 2024, the Full Committee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to consider President Biden's
budget request for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for
fiscal years 2025 and 2026. The U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs requested $369.3 billion for fiscal year 2025, which is
a $41.8 billion increase (22 percent) over FY 2024 in mandatory
spending and a $8.9 billion decrease (6 percent) compared to FY
2024 discretionary spending.
There were two witness panels. The following witness
testified on the first panel: The Honorable Denis McDonough,
Secretary, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Roscoe Butler, Senior Health Policy Advisor, Paralyzed Veterans
of America; Mr. Shane Liermann, Deputy National Legislative
Director, Disabled American Veterans; and Mr. Patrick Murray,
National Legislative Service Director, Veterans of Foreign
Wars.
Full Committee Hearing--``Bonus Blunder: Examining VA's Improper
Decision to Award Senior Executives Millions in Incentives''
On June 4, 2024, the Full Committee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine the Department of
Veterans Affairs (VA) Office of Inspector General (OIG) report
detailing its investigation into critical skill incentive (CSI)
bonuses made to nearly every career senior executive service
(SES) employee in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and
Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA).
There were two witness panels. The following witness
testified on the first panel: The Honorable Michael J. Missal,
Inspector General, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witness testified on the second panel: The
Honorable Denis R. McDonough, Secretary, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs.
Full Committee Hearing--``A Call to Action: Meeting the Needs of the
Paralyzed Veteran Community''
On June 13, 2024, the Full Committee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to discuss the unique challenges
veterans living with Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders (SCI/D)
face by examining the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA)
patient safety practices, the current and future infrastructure
of VA medical facilities, health care staffing needs, and the
accessibility of medical care and transportation for SCI/D
veterans. The hearing also examined the accessibility of
contract exam facilities for veterans' disability compensation
exams, the ability of VA's Veterans Readiness and Employment
Program to assist SCI/D veterans, and the support VA provides
through their Specially Adapted Housing Grant Program to assist
SCI/D veterans in modifying their homes to meet their
accessibility needs.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Dr. Erica Scavella, Assistant
Under Secretary for Health for Clinical Services, Veterans
Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr.
Jeffrey London, Executive Director, Medical Disability
Examination Office, Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr. Steve Bracci, Director,
Claims and Medical Exams Benefits Inspection Division, Office
of Inspector General, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Robert Thomas, National President and Chairman of the Board,
Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA); Mr. Carl Blake, Chief
Executive Officer, PVA; Ms. Sonya Sotak, Chief Government
Affairs Officer, I AM ALS; and Dr. Jenny Kiratli, Member,
American Federation of Government Employees.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Elliott Mitochondria Research Center, Neuralink, and the Reeve
Foundation.
Full Committee Hearing--``Accountable of Absent? Examining VA
Leadership Under the Biden-Harris Administration''
On September 10, 2024, the Full Committee met in open
session to conduct an oversight hearing to examine where
accountability is lacking within the Department of Veterans
Affairs (VA), which was found though committee oversight
travel, investigations, and whistleblower discussions. Members
had the opportunity to pose questions to VA's Inspector
General, the Under Secretary for Health, and the Under
Secretary for Benefits to examine how VA leaders would take
accountability for their own conduct and address substantiated
and alleged misconduct.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: The Honorable Dr. Shereef Elnahal, Under Secretary
for Health, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; The Honorable
Joshua Jacobs, Under Secretary for Benefits, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Mr. Edward J. Murray, Acting Assistant
Secretary for Management and Chief Financial Officer, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; and The Honorable Michael J.
Missal, Inspector General, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Concerned Veterans of America, and Veterans of Foreign Wars of
the U.S.
Full Committee Hearing--``Everyday Heroes: Supporting the Veteran
Caregiver Community''
On September 25, 2024, the Full Committee met in open
session to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the
comprehensive challenges faced by veteran caregivers. Veterans'
caregivers play an essential role in supporting veterans'
health and well-being. These caregivers, often family members,
friends, or close acquaintances, provide a wide range of
services. These services include assistance with basic
activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and
eating; and managing complex medical needs, administering
medications, and providing emotional and mental health support.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Dr. Colleen Richardson, Psy.D.,
Executive Director, Caregiver Support Program, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Ms.
Laura Duke, Chief Financial Officer, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Dr.
Rajeev Ramchand, Senior Behavioral Scientists and Codirector,
RAND Epstein Family Veterans Research Institute; Mr. Steve
Schwab, CEO, Elizabeth Dole Foundation; Ms. Vanessa Chism,
Elizabeth Dole Caregiver Fellow; Mr. Troy Broussard, State
Director, AARP; and Mr. Jonathon Pruden, Special Advisor to the
Chief of Staff--Warrior Care, Wounded Warrior Project.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Blue Star Families, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S.,
Paralyzed Veterans of America, and Quality of Life Foundation.
Full Committee Hearing--``Fact and Fiction: Getting to the Bottom of
the VA Budget Shortfall''
On December 5, 2024, the Full Committee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the circumstances
surrounding the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) purported
fiscal year (FY) 2024 benefits budget shortfall and FY 2025
health care budget shortfall.
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: the Honorable Shereef Elnahal, M.D., Under
Secretary for Health, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; the
Honorable Joshua Jacobs, Under Secretary for Benefits, Veterans
Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs;
Ms. Laura Duke, Chief Financial Officer, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Ms.
Lasheeco Graham, Chief Financial Officer, Veterans Benefits
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following group submitted a statement for the record:
Multi-VSOs.
Full Committee Hearing--``Restoring Congressional Power over VA After
Loper Bright Enterprises vs. Raimondo''
On December 18, 2024, the Full Committee met in open
session to conduct an oversight hearing to examine how the
recent Supreme Court decision in Loper Bright Enterprises v.
Raimondo will affect current and future Department of Veterans
Affairs (VA) regulatory decisions. The hearing explored how
Congress and VA can effectively operate to serve veterans in a
post-Loper environment.
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: Mr. Philip Wallach, Senior Fellow,
American Enterprise Institute; Mr. Chad Squitieri, Assistant
Professor of Law, Columbus School of Law, Catholic University
of America; Mr. John Vecchione, Senior Litigation Counsel, New
Civil Liberties Alliance; and Mr. Jonathan Gaffney, Supervisory
Attorney, Congressional Research Service.
SITE VISITS
Northern Illinois and Northwestern Indiana. From May 26
through May 30, 2023, Ranking Member Takano and minority staff
conducted an oversight trip to Northern Illinois and
Northwestern Indiana. Ranking Member Takano and minority staff
participated in the Boot Camp graduation at Naval Station Great
Lakes on May 26, 2023. Afterward, Ranking Member Takano and
minority staff visited the Captain James A. Lovell Federal
Health Care Center (FHCC), where they met with Lovell FHCC
leadership and discussed the unique organizational structure of
the facility. Ranking Member Takano and minority staff also
toured the ``USS Red Rover,'' the medical-dental facility where
incoming Navy recruits receive in-processing medical exams,
immunizations, and primary care. The trip also included a visit
to Sheridan National Cemetery and Abraham Lincoln National
Cemetery. Ranking Member Takano attended a veterans town hall
and toured the Hines VA Medical Center with Rep. Lauren
Underwood; and attended Memorial Day events in Indiana with
Rep. Frank Mrvan. Ranking Member Takano was joined by Rep.
Delia Ramirez for a visit to the Veterans Benefits
Administration's Chicago Regional Office, where they and
minority staff met with managers and staff to discuss
implementation of the PACT Act and how the new law has impacted
employees, workload, and hiring. Finally, Ranking Member Takano
and minority staff visited the Laurent House in Rockford,
Illinois, which hosted a celebration of the 75th anniversary of
VA's Specially Adapted Housing Program.
France, Belgium, Germany, and Italy. From June 23 to July
1, 2023, Chairman Bost led a bipartisan congressional
delegation (CODEL) to France, Belgium, Germany, and Italy. The
delegation included Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks
(IA-03), Representative Derrick Van Orden (WI-03),
Representative Scott Franklin (FL-18), Representative Amata
Radewagen (American Samoa-At Large), and Representative Mark
Takano (CA-39). Five majority staff members and two minority
staff members accompanied them. The trip's purpose was to
oversee American Battle Monument sites, examine American Armed
Forces cemeteries, tour the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center
and Naval Support Activity Naples, and discuss the Transition
Assistance Program with armed services personnel.
Virginia Beach, Virginia. From July 20 to 21, 2023,
Chairman Bost and majority committee staff visited Virginia
Beach, Virginia. During this trip, Chairman Bost was
accompanied by Rep. Jen Kiggans as they toured ECPI University
to gain insight into the skills that student veterans are
developing before entering the workforce. Additionally,
Chairman Bost and Rep. Kiggans held a roundtable discussion
with over 40 veterans and veterans' organizations to understand
better the healthcare, education, and benefits needs in the
Virginia Beach area.
Dayton, Ohio. On August 1, 2023, Chairman Bost and majority
committee staff visited Dayton, Ohio. During this trip,
Chairman Bost was accompanied by Rep. Mike Turner as they
toured the Dayton National Cemetery and conducted an oversight
visit. National Cemetery Administration (NCA) employees briefed
them on the construction plans for the cemetery's expansion,
which will extend behind historical buildings and run adjacent
to a parking lot. Concerns were raised regarding the NCA's need
for collaboration with the community about these expansion
plans.
Loma Linda, California. On August 8, 2023, Ranking Member
Takano and minority staff accompanied Dr. Shereef Elnahal, VA's
Under Secretary for Health, on a visit to the VA Loma Linda
Health Care system. Together, they met with leadership from
Veterans Integrated Service Network 22 and the medical center,
local union leaders, and clinical staff leading research on
MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for veterans with combat-related
PTSD. In addition, they discussed with local leaders the
facility's progress in improving primary care access at the
medical center and its outpatient clinics and toured some
clinical spaces. Finally, the Ranking Member and the Under
Secretary held two town halls with VA Loma Linda Health Care
System employees and a roundtable with veterans.
Japan, Guam, Wake, and Hawaii. From April 20 to April 28,
2024, Chairman Bost and Chairman Graves led a bipartisan led a
bipartisan congressional delegation (CODEL) to Japan, Guam,
Wake, and Hawaii. The delegation included Ranking Member Takano
(CA-39), Representative Sauld Carbajal (CA-24), Representative
Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Representative Troy Nehls (TX-22),
Representative David Rouzer (NC-07), and Representative Barry
Moore (AL-02). Nine majority staff members and one minority
staff member accompanied them. The trip's purpose was to
conduct a fact-finding visit to Japan, Guam, Wake Island, and
Hawaii. The delegation met with local government officials to
discuss U.S. operations and strategic interests in the region
and reaffirm the U.S. commitment to our Pacific allies in the
INDOPACOM region.
In addition, the delegation examined transportation and
infrastructure projects, particularly high-speed rail, along
with the associated challenges and solutions. They also
examined U.S. cemeteries where veterans of various wars and
conflicts are buried, both domestically and internationally, as
well as War Monuments in the area. Furthermore, the delegation
visited veterans' hospitals, medical care, and the unique
issues related to veterans in the region.
Oregon. On June 16, 2024, the majority staff director
conducted a site visit of the Portland Oregon VA Medical Center
along with Rep. Chavez DeRemer and staff. The purpose of this
visit was to tour the facility and meet with staff to learn
about the issues facing the veterans of the pacific northwest.
The staff found that while the care being provided by the staff
of the facility was adequate, there was concern about them
purposely directing veterans to not use care in the community.
The staff also participated in veterans townhall in Bend,
Oregon hosted by Rep. Chavez DeRemer.
Colorado and New Mexico. From July 14 to 20, 2024, Ranking
Member Takano and minority staff visited several sites in
Colorado and New Mexico. Ranking Member Takano and Committee
staff were joined by Rep. Jason Crow for a tour of the Rocky
Mountain Regional VA Medical Center in Aurora, CO. This visit
included discussion with interim Medical Center leadership.
Ranking Member Takano attended veterans' town halls with Rep.
Yadira Caraveo, Rep. Brittany Petterson, Rep. Melanie
Stansbury, and Rep. Gabe Vasquez. The delegation also visited
the Colorado Springs Vet Center and PFC Floyd K. Lindstrom VA
Clinic in Colorado Springs. Also near Colorado Springs, there
were meetings at the Air Force Academy and the Peterson Space
Force Base to discuss servicemember transition. Additionally,
oversight visits were conducted at the Pueblo, Raton, and Taos
VA Community-Based Outpatient Clinics to gain a better
understanding of rural healthcare needs in Colorado and New
Mexico. The trip concluded with a visit to the New Mexico
Veterans Affairs Health Care System in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Minneapolis, Minnesota. On August 2, 2024, Ranking Member
Takano and minority staff visited the Minneapolis VA Medical
Center and conducted a listening session with VA employees.
They also met with leadership and staff from the facility's
``Close to Me'' cancer care program and VA's Tele-Critical Care
hub, which is based in Minneapolis. In addition, Ranking Member
Takano participated in a PACT Act roundtable discussion with
invited members of the local congressional delegation, state
and local elected officials, veterans service organizations,
and veterans. Finally, Ranking Member Takano and staff visited
a home that is part of the Minnesota Assistance Council for
Veterans' (MACV) permanent supportive housing program. MACV is
a nonprofit organization working to end veteran homelessness in
Minnesota.
Omaha, Nebraska. On October 16, 2024, the majority staff
director conducted a site visit to Omaha, Nebraska. Following a
town hall with Rep. Don Bacon and local veterans, staff met
with the leadership of the University of Nebraska Medical
Center. During this visit staff toured the medical school's
facilities and had a detailed conversation about the potential
to having VA partner with the University on a new medical
center.
California. From October 14 to 17, 2024, Chairman Bost and
majority committee staff visited several locations in
California. During this trip, Chairman Bost was accompanied by
Rep. Ken Calvert as they toured Desert Arc: Opportunities for
People with Disabilities. This organization supports
individuals with disabilities, including veterans and their
families, in Palm Desert, CA. Additionally, Chairman Bost and
Representative Calvert held a roundtable discussion with over
40 veterans and veterans' groups to understand better the
healthcare needs in both rural and urban areas of Palm Springs,
CA.
Tucson, Arizona. From October 17 to 19, 2024, Chairman Bost
and majority committee staff visited several locations in
Tucson, Arizona, accompanied by Rep. Juan Ciscomani. Chairman
Bost and Rep. Ciscomani held a roundtable discussion with over
20 veterans and veterans' groups to gain insight into the
healthcare, economic opportunities, and homelessness challenges
veterans face in Tucson's rural and urban areas. Additionally,
Chairman Bost and Rep. Ciscomani toured the Healing AZ Veterans
clinic to learn about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) and its
application in treating veteran PTSD and traumatic brain
injuries (TBI). They also attended a Cochise County Veteran
Stand Down to understand better the needs of homeless veterans
and how the VA is addressing those needs within the community.
Lastly, they visited Cochise College to explore the skill sets
that student veterans are obtaining before entering the
workforce.
Lancaster, California. On October 28, 2024, the majority
staff director conducted a site visit to the site of the new VA
Outpatient clinic in Lancaster, CA. The clinic is under
construction and is expected to be completed in the fall of
2025. Staff also participated in in a roundtable and a townhall
with Rep. Mike Garcia.
ACTIVITIES OF THE SUBCOMMITTEE ON DISABILITY
ASSISTANCE AND MEMORIAL AFFAIRS
MORGAN LUTRELL, Texas, Chair
CHRIS PAPPAS, New Hampshire, Ranking Member
SCOTT FRANKLIN, Florida MORGAN McGARVEY, Kentucky
JUAN CISCOMANI, Arizona DELIA RAMIREZ, Illinois
ELI CRANE, Arizona GREG LANDSMAN, Ohio2
KEITH SELF, Texas
------
Jenny J. Tang, Majority Staff Director
Gary Woodward, Minority Staff Director
----------
2On June 3, 2024, Representative Chris Deluzio resigned his
position on the Subcommittee on Disability and Memorial Affairs, and on
September 10, 2024, Representative Greg Landsman joined the
Subcommittee.
LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITIES
MARKUPS
Subcommittee Markup. On April 19, 2023, the Subcommittee
held a markup on H.R. 234, Gerald's Law Act; H.R. 984,
Commitment to Veteran Support and Outreach Act; H.R. 1329, to
amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase
in the maximum number of judges who may be appointed to the
United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims; H.R. 1378,
Veterans Appeals Backlog Improvement Act; H.R. 1529, Veterans'
Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act; and H.R. 1530, Veterans Benefits
Improvement Act. H.R. 1529 was ordered reported to Full
Committee by voice vote, without amendment. H.R. 234, H.R.
1329, H.R. 1378, H.R. 1530, and H.R. 984 were ordered reported
to Full Committee by voice vote, as amended.
Subcommittee Markup. On November 29, 2023, the Subcommittee
held a markup on H.R. 1753, To ensure that certain members of
the Armed Forces who served in female cultural support teams
receive proper credit for such service; H.R. 3790, Justice for
ALS Veterans Act of 2023; H.R. 4016, Veteran Fraud
Reimbursement Act; H.R. 4190, Restoring Benefits to Defrauded
Veterans Act; H.R. 4306, Michael Lecik Military Firefighters
Protection Act; H.R. 5559, Protecting Veterans Claim Options
Act; H.R. 5891, Veteran Appeals Decision Clarity Act; H.R.
5870, Veteran Appeals Transparency Act of 2023; H.R. 5890,
Review Every Veterans Claim Act of 2023; and H.R. 5938,
Veterans Exam Expansion Act of 2023. H.R. 4016, and H.R. 5890
were order reported to Full Committee by voice vote, without
amendment. H.R. 3790, H.R. 5938, H.R. 4190, H.R. 5559, H.R.
5870, H.R. 5891, H.R. 1753, and H.R. 4306 were ordered reported
to Full Committee by voice vote, as amended.
Subcommittee Markup. On April 16, 2024, the Subcommittee
held a markup on H.R. 1083, Caring for Survivors Act of 2023;
H.R. 2911, Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act
of 2023; H.R. 3651, Love Lies On Act of 2023; H.R. 7100,
Prioritizing Veterans' Survivors Act; H.R. 7150, Survivor
Benefits Delivery Improvement Act of 2024; H.R. 7777, Veterans'
Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2024; H.R. 7793,
Veterans Appeals Options Expansion Act of 2024; H.R. 7816,
Clear Communications for Veterans Claims Act; H.R. 7883, Toxic
Exposures Examination Improvement Act; H.R. 7917, Veterans
Appeals Efficiency Act of 2024; and H.R. 7919, Veterans Claims
Quality Improvement Act of 2024. H.R. 2911 and H.R. 7816 were
ordered reported to Full Committee by voice vote, as amended.
H.R. 1083, H.R. 3651, H.R. 7100, H.R. 7150, H.R. 7777, H.R.
7793, H.R. 7883, H.R. 7917, and H.R. 7919 were ordered reported
to Full Committee by voice vote, without amendment.
Subcommittee Markup. On July 23, 2024, the Subcommittee
held a markup on H.R. 2971, Veterans Claims Education Act of
2023; H.R. 6362, Protecting Benefits for Disabled Veterans Act
of 2023; H.R. 8792, Flowers for Fallen Heroes Act of 2024; H.R.
8874, Modernizing All Veterans and Survivors Claims Processing
Act; H.R. 8879, Improving VA Training for Military Sexual
Trauma Claims Act; H.R. 8880, Simplifying Forms for Veterans
Claims Act; H.R. 8881, Rural Veterans' Improved Access to
Benefits Act of 2024; H.R. 8893, Preserving Veterans' Legacy
Act; H.R. 8910, Dayton National Cemetery Expansion Act of 2024;
H.R. 9053, Veterans 2nd Amendment Restoration Act; H.R. 9054,
Safeguarding Veterans 2nd Amendment Rights Act; H.R. 9057, Gulf
War Survivor Benefits Update Act of 2024; H.R. 9055, Veterans'
Burial Improvement Act of 2024; and H.R. 9056, VA Insurance
Improvement Act. H.R. 2971, H.R. 6362, H.R. 8792, H.R. 8874,
H.R. 8879, H.R. 8879, H.R. 8880, H.R. 8881, H.R. 8910, H.R.
9053, H.R. 9054, H.R. 9057, H.R. 9055, and H.R. 9056 were
ordered reported to Full Committee by voice vote, without
amendment. H.R. 8893 was ordered reported to Full Committee by
voice vote, as amended.
LEGISLATIVE HEARINGS
Subcommittee Legislative Hearing--``Legislative hearing on H.R. 234,
Gerald's Law Act; H.R. 854, Captain James C. Edge Gold Star
Spouse Equity Act; H.R. 984, Commitment to Veteran Support and
Outreach Act; H.R. 1139, GUARD VA Benefits Act; H.R. 1329, to
amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase
in the maximum number of judges who may be appointed to the
United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims; H.R. 1378,
Veterans' Appeals Backlog Improvement Act; H.R. 1529, Veterans'
Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2023; and H.R. 1530, Veterans
Benefits Improvement Act.''
On March 29, 2023, the Subcommittee met in an open session
to conduct a legislative hearing to discuss the above
legislation.
There were three witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Representative Morgan Luttrell
(Texas); Representative Chris Pappas (New Hampshire);
Representative Juan Ciscomani (Arizona); Representative Mike
Levin (California); Representative Keith Self (Texas); and
Representative Jack Bergman (Michigan).
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Ms.
Cheryl Rawls, Executive Director, Outreach, Transition and
Economic Development, Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Kevin Friel, Deputy
Director, Pension & Fiduciary Service, Veterans Benefits
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Ms.
Christa Schriber, Deputy Chief Counsel, Benefits Law Group,
Office of General Counsel, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the third panel: Mr.
Shane Liermann, Deputy National Legislative Director, Disabled
American Veterans; Mr. Lawrence Montreuil, Legislative
Director, The American Legion; Ms. Kristina Keenan, Deputy
Director for National Legislative Service, Veterans of Foreign
Wars; and Lieutenant Colonel William Taylor (USA) Ret., Co-
Founder & Chief Operating Officer, Veterans Guardian VA Claim
Consulting, LLC.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Gold Star Wives of America, National Organization of Veterans'
Advocates, Inc., Rep. Michael Waltz, Special Operations
Association of America, Tragedy Assistance Program for
Survivors, and U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims.
Subcommittee Legislative Hearing--``Legislative Hearing on H.R. 1753,
To ensure that certain members of the Armed Forces who served
in female cultural support teams receive proper credit for such
service; H.R. 3790, Justice for ALS Veterans Act of 2023; H.R.
4016, Veteran Fraud Reimbursement Act; H.R. 4190, Restoring
Benefits to Defrauded Veterans Act; H.R. 4306, Michael Lecik
Military Firefighters Protection Act; H.R. 5559, Protecting
Veterans Claim Options Act; H.R. 5891, Veteran Appeals Decision
Clarity Act; H.R. 5870, Veteran Appeals Transparency Act of
2023; H.R. 5890, Review Every Veterans Claim Act of 2023; and
H.R. 5938, Veterans Exam Expansion Act of 2023.''
On November 8, 2023, the Subcommittee met in an open
session to conduct a legislative hearing to discuss several
bills.
There were three witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Representative Morgan Luttrell
(Texas); Chairman Mike Bost (Illinois); Representative Elissa
Slotkin (Michigan); Representative Juan Ciscomani (Arizona);
Representative Abigail Davis Spanberger (Virginia);
Representative Keith Self (Texas); Representative David J.
Trone (Maryland); and Representative Darrell Issa (California).
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Ms.
Beth Murphy, Executive Director, Compensation Service, Veterans
Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs;
Mr. Kevin Friel, Deputy Director, Pension & Fiduciary Service,
Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; and Mr. Kenneth Arnold, Vice Chairman, Board of
Veterans' Appeals, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the third panel: Mr.
Shane Liermann, Deputy National Director, Disabled American
Veterans; Ms. Quandrea N. Patterson, Associate Director,
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States; and Mr. Zachary
M. Stolz, Partner, Chisholm, Chisholm & Kilpatrick LTD.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
ALS Association, AmVets, Rep. Gerald Connolly, Paralyzed
Veterans of America, National Organization of Veterans'
Advocates, Inc., Leidos QTC, Special Operations Association of
America, and Service Women's Action Network.
Subcommittee Legislative Hearing--``Legislative Hearing on H.R. 1083,
Caring for Survivors Act of 2023; H.R. 2911, Fairness for
Servicemembers and their Families Act of 2023; H.R. 3651, Love
Lives On Act of 2023; H.R. 7100, Prioritizing Veterans'
Survivors Act; H.R. 7150, Survivor Benefits Delivery
Improvement Act of 2024; H.R. 7777, Veterans' Compensation
Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2024; H.R. 7793, Veterans
Appeals Options Expansion Act of 2024; H.R. 7816, Clear
Communication for Veterans Claims Act; H.R. 7883, Toxic
Exposures Examination Improvement Act; H.R. 7917, Veterans
Appeals Efficiency Act of 2024; H.R. 7919, Veterans Claims
Quality Improvement Act of 2024; and Discussion Draft, To amend
title 38, United States Code, to improve matters relating to
medical examinations for veterans disability compensation, and
for other purposes.''
On April 10, 2024, the Subcommittee met in an open session
to conduct a legislative hearing to discuss several bills.
There were three witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Representative Keith Self
(Texas); Representative John Duarte (California); and
Representative Jahana Hayes (Connecticut).
The following witnesses testified on the second panel:
Colonel Tiffany M. Wagner, Clerk of the Court, U.S. Court of
Appeals for Veterans Claims; Mr. Daniel T. Shedd, Legislative
Attorney, American Law Division, Congressional Research
Service; The Honorable Jaime Areizaga-Soto, Chairman, Board of
Veterans' Appeals, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms.
Brianne Ogilvie, Assistant Deputy Under Secretary, Office of
Policy and Oversight, Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; and Ms. Jessica Pierce,
Assistant Director, Compensation Service Policy Staff, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the third panel: Ms.
Candace Wheeler, Director, Government and Legislative Affairs,
Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS); Mr.
Christopher Macinkowicz, Deputy Director, National Veterans
Service, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW);
Mr. Andrew Tangen, First Vice President, National Association
of County Veterans Service Officers (NACVSO); and Ms. Renee
Burbank, Director of Litigation, National Veterans Legal
Services Program (NVLSP).
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Administrative Conference of the United States, The American
Legion, Disabled American Veterans, National Organization of
Veterans' Advocates, Inc., Paralyzed Veterans of America,
Representative Dean Phillips (Minnesota), Representative
Marilyn Strickland, and Mr. Michael J. Wishnie.
Subcommittee Legislative Hearing--``Legislative Hearing on H.R. 2971,
Veterans Claims Education Act of 2023; H.R. 6362, Protecting
Benefits for Disabled Veterans Act of 2023; H.R. 6507, Mark Our
Place Act; H.R. 7729, Dennis and Lois Krisfalusy Act; H.R.
8792, Flowers for Fallen Heroes Act of 2024; H.R. 8854,
Ensuring Veterans' Final Resting Place Act of 2024; H.R. 8910,
Dayton National Cemetery Expansion Act of 2024; H.R. 8893,
Preserving Veterans' Legacy Act of 2024; H.R. 8874, Modernizing
All Veterans and Survivors Claims Processing Act; H.R. 8881,
Rural Veterans' Improved Access to Benefits Act of 2024; H.R.
8879, Improving VA Training for Military Sexual Trauma Claims
Act; H.R. 8880, Simplifying Forms for Veterans Claims Act;
Discussion Draft, Veterans 2nd Amendment Restoration Act;
Discussion Draft, Safeguarding Veterans 2nd Amendment Rights
Act; Discussion Draft, Board of Veterans Appeals' Attorney
Retention and Backlog Reduction Act; Discussion Draft,
Veterans' Burial Improvement Act; Discussion Draft, VA
Insurance Improvement Act; and Discussion Draft, Survivor
Benefits Update Act.''
On July 10, 2024, the Subcommittee met in an open session
to conduct a legislative hearing to discuss several bills.
There were three witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Representative Ryan Zinke
(Montana); Representative Rudy Yakym III (Indiana); and
Representative John Duarte (California).
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: the
Honorable Charles K. Djou, Secretary & Chief Executive,
American Battle Monuments Commission; Mr. Glenn Powers, Deputy
Undersecretary, Field Programs and Cemetery Operations,
National Cemetery Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Mr. Jeffrey London, Executive Director, Medical
Disability Examination Office, Veterans Benefits
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms.
Kristina Messenger, Deputy Executive Director of Operations,
Compensation Service, Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr. Kevin Friel, Deputy
Director of Pension & Fiduciary Service, Veterans Benefits
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the third panel: Ms.
Candace Wheeler, Director, Government and Legislative Affairs,
Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS); Ms. Lesley
Witter, Senior Vice President, Advocacy, National Funeral
Directors Association (NFDA); Mr. Bob ``Shoebob'' Carey,
Captain, US Navy (Ret), Director, Chief Bottle Washer, National
Defense Committee; Mr. Robert M. ``Bob'' Holliday, Gold Star
son of Captain Karl O. ``Hap'' Holliday; and Mr. Nicholas
Keogh, 2nd Vice President, Local 17, American Federation of
Government Employees (AFGE).
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Center on Education and the Workforce--Georgetown University,
Disabled American Veterans, Healthcare Leadership Council,
National Association of Counties, Rep. Young Kim (California),
Rep. Morgan McGarvey (Kentucky), Rep. Maxine Waters
(California), Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S., and Mr.
James Vollman.
OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Reviewing VA's implementation of the
PACT Act''
On May 16, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing examining the U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs (VA) delivery of disability compensation
benefits under P.L. 117-168: the Sergeant First Class Heath
Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics
Act of 2022 (PACT Act). The purpose of the hearing was to
examine the VA's progress deploying information technology
needed to process PACT Act claims; timelines for hiring and
training new claims processors; provision of training and
guidance on processing PACT Act claims; accuracy of claims
decisions; and progress reducing the inventory of pending
disability compensation claims.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: the Honorable Joshua Jacobs,
Under Secretary for Benefits, Veterans Benefits Administration,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Dr. Patricia Hastings,
Chief Consultant, Health Outcomes and Military Exposures,
Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; and Mr. Robert Orifici, Director of the Benefits and
Memorial Services Portfolio, Office of Technology
Modernization, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Michael T. Black, National Service Director, American Veterans
(AMVETS); Colonel Lorry M. Fenner (USAF Retired), Director of
Government Relations, Service Women's Action Network; and Mr.
Aleks Morosky, Government Affairs Deputy Director, Wounded
Warrior Project.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S., Disabled American
Veterans, and American Federation of Government Employees, AFL-
CIO.
Joint Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``From Months to Hours: The
Future of VA Benefits Claims Processing''
On June 6, 2023, the Subcommittees on Disability Assistance
and Memorial Affairs and Technology Modernization met in open
session to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) plans, and progress so far,
to modernize the information technology systems used to process
disability compensation claims. Specifically, the Subcommittees
reviewed VA's 5-year Modernization Plan of Benefits Delivery
Information Technology Systems, which was required in the PACT
Act.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Mr. Raymond Tellez, Acting Assistant Deputy Under
Secretary, Automated Benefits Delivery, Veterans Benefits
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Robert
Orifici, Director, Benefits and Memorial Systems Portfolio,
Office of Information & Technology, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; and Mr. David Bump, National Representative for
National Veterans Affairs Council, Second Vice President for
Veterans Benefits Administration at Local 2157, Portland,
Oregon, American Federation of Government Employees.
The following group submitted a statement for the record:
Foundation for American Innovation.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``VA Disability Exams: Are Veterans
Receiving Quality Services?''
On July 27, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to review the U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs (VA) oversight of disability exams conducted
by contractors as well as Veterans Health Administration
medical examiners. Other hearing topics included: exam
scheduling, information technology systems for exams, examiner
training, addressing underperforming examiners, and the
sufficiency of VA's process to determine the quality,
timeliness, and veteran satisfaction of disability exams. The
Subcommittee also examined the VA's progress implementing the
recommendations from several U.S. Government Accountability
Office (GAO) reports.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Mr. Jeffrey London, Executive Director, Medical
Disability Examination Office, Veterans Benefits
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms.
Jacqueline Imboden, Assistant Director, Procedures &
Interagency/MilPay, Compensation Service, Veterans Benefits
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr.
Christopher Parker, Associate Executive Director, Office of
Acquisitions, Logistics and Construction, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Dr. Henry Bridges, Senior Medical Officer for
the Office of Disability and Medical Assessment, (VHA/11CS-
DMA), U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Elizabeth Curda,
Director, Education, Workforce, and Income Security, U.S.
Government Accountability Office; and Mr. Stephen Bracci,
Director, Claims and Medical Exams Inspection Division, Office
of Audits and Evaluations, Office of Inspector General, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
American Federation of Government Employees, AFL-CIO, Disabled
American Veterans, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Maximus,
National Organization of Veterans' Advocates, Inc., Optum Serve
Health Services, and Leidos QTC.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``VA's Fiduciary Program: Ensuring
Veterans' Benefits are Properly Managed''
On September 28, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to review the U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs (VA) fiduciary program to examine the
process by which fiduciaries are appointed, including how VA
deems an individual or entity as qualified to manage a
veteran's benefits; the process by which VA monitors and
removes fiduciaries; and, fraud and misuse associated with the
program.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Mr. Kevin Friel, Deputy Director, Pension &
Fiduciary Service, Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; and Ms. Liza Van Haeren,
Director, Claims and Fiduciary Division, Office of Audits and
Evaluations, Office of Inspector General, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Disabled American Veterans and Paralyzed Veterans of America
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Examining the VA Appeals Process:
Ensuring High Quality Decision-Making for Veterans' Claims on
Appeal''
On November 29, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the quality of
actions by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Board
of Veterans' Appeals (Board), including Board determinations of
whether a Notice of Disagreement has initiated an appeal, Board
remands of cases to the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA)
for further action or development, and Board decisions on
veterans' claims for VA benefits. The hearing also examined the
extent to which the VBA uses data from Board remands to inform
its quality assurance and training programs, as well as the
extent to which the Board uses data from orders by the U.S.
Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims to inform its quality
assurance and training programs.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Ms. Elizabeth Curda, Director,
Education, Workforce, and Income Security Issues, U.S.
Government Accountability Office; Mr. Kenneth A. Arnold, Vice
Chairman, Board of Veterans' Appeals, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Ms. Mary Ann (Merri) Flynn, Chief Counsel,
CAVC Litigation Group, Office of General Counsel, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr. Timothy Sirhal,
Executive Director, Office of Administrative Review, Veterans
Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Shane Liermann, Deputy National Legislative Director, Disabled
American Veterans; Ms. Diane Boyd Rauber, Executive Director,
National Organization of Veterans' Advocates, Inc.; Mr. Michael
S. Figlioli, Director, National Veterans Service, Veterans of
Foreign Wars of the United States; Mr. Zachary M. Stolz,
Partner, Chisholm, Chisholm & Kilpatrick LTD; and Mr. Douglas
E. Massey, President, Local 17, American Federation of
Government Employees.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Bergmann & Moore, LLC and U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans
Claims.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Is VA Illegally Spending Taxpayer
Dollars in its Compensation and Pension Programs?''
On February 14, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs (VA) financial management policies and
practices, specifically including whether VA effectively uses
dollars that Congress appropriates for veterans' disability
compensation and pension benefits, the extent to which VA has
issued improper payments, and whether VA is entirely
transparent about the overpayments it has issued.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Mr. Ronald S. Burke Jr., Deputy Under Secretary for
Policy and Oversight, Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Lasheeco Graham, Chief
Financial Officer, Office of Financial Management, Veterans
Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs;
Mr. Brent E. Arronte, Deputy Assistant Inspector General for
Audits and Evaluations, Office of Inspector General, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; and Ms. Dana Sullivan, Director
of Claims and Appeals, Office of Audits and Evaluations, Office
of Inspector General, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Lost in Translation: How VA's
Disability Claims and Appeals Letters Should be Simplified''
On March 20, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine whether the U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability claims and
appeals notice letters to veterans and their families are
understandable and contain the information veterans need to
effectively navigate the claims process for VA disability
compensation benefits in a timely manner.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Ms. Beth Murphy, Executive
Director, Compensation Service, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Ms. Caroline Fleming, Veterans Law Judge, Board of
Veterans' Appeals, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms.
Denise Kitts, Executive Director, Enterprise Measurement and
Design, Veterans Experience Office, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; and Mr. Brian Griffin, Deputy Chief Counsel, Benefits
Law Group, Office of General Counsel, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Shane Liermann, Deputy National Legislative Director, Disabled
American Veterans (DAV); Ms. Diane Boyd Rauber, Executive
Director, National Organization of Veterans' Advocates, Inc.
(NOVA); and Mr. Michael S. Figlioli, Director, National
Veterans Service, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States
(VFW).
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Does a Total Disability Rating Based
on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) Properly Compensate
Today's Veterans?''
On June 12, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine whether the TDIU
benefit properly compensates veterans who are unable to secure
and maintain substantially gainful employment as a result of
their service-connected disability or disabilities, including
whether the current TDIU benefit is an accurate representation
of the average totally impaired veteran's earing capacity in
today's civil occupational environment. The Subcommittee also
examined the current criteria for entitlement to TDIU and the
extent to which the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs'
occupational training and counseling helps veterans obtain
substantially gainful employment.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Mr. Ronald S. Burke Jr., Deputy
Under Secretary, Office of Policy & Oversight, Veterans
Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs;
Mr. Nick Pamperin, Executive Director, Veteran Readiness and
Employment Service, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and
Mr. David J. Barrans, Chief Counsel, Benefits Law Group, Office
of General Counsel, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Marquis Barefield, Assistant National Legislative Director,
Disabled American Veterans (DAV); Mr. Michael S. Figlioli,
Director, National Veterans Service, Veterans of Foreign Wars
of the United States (VFW); and Mr. Michael Stoddard, National
Service Director, Benefits Services, Wounded Warrior Project
(WWP).
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Center on Education and the Workforce--Georgetown University,
National Organization of Veterans' Advocates, Inc., Paralyzed
Veterans of America, and Mr. James Vollman.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Examining Shortcomings with VA's
National Work Queue Veterans Benefits Claims Management
System''
On June 26, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine the National Work Queue
(NWQ), including whether VA's national and regional office (RO)
rules for workload management allows VA employees to learn from
their mistakes. The hearing also examined the NWQ's
distribution of certain types of claims to ROs assigned to
process those claims, including whether backlogs result from
mismanagement of special mission ROs.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Mr. Willie Clark, Deputy Under
Secretary, Field Operations, Veterans Benefits Administration,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr. Ken Smith,
Assistant Deputy Under Secretary, Operations Management,
Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Herman Breuer, Policy Director, National Association of County
Veterans Services Officers (NACVSO); Ms. Ashlynne Haycock-
Lohmann, Deputy Director, Government and Legislative Affairs,
Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS); and Mr. James
R. Swartz, President, Local 2823, American Federation of
Government Employees (AFGE).
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Is the Veterans Benefits
Administration Properly Processing and Deciding Veterans
Claims?''
On July 23, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine the efficacy of the
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Veteran Benefits
Administration (VBA) quality assurance and training programs,
including whether VBA's training program is effective for
ensuring accurate decisions on veterans' and survivors' claims,
and whether VBA's quality data gathering methodology accurately
reflects whether VBA is properly processing and deciding
veterans' and survivors' claims.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Mr. Ronald S. Burke, Jr., Deputy Under Secretary,
Office of Policy & Oversight, Veterans Benefits Administration,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Kenneth Smith,
Assistant Deputy Under Secretary, Operations Management,
Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Ms. Kristina Messenger, Deputy Executive Director of
Operations, Compensation Service, Veterans Benefits
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr.
Stephen Bracci, Director, Compensation Programs Inspection
Division, Office of Audits and Evaluations, Office of Inspector
General (OIG), U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms.
Elizabeth Curda, Director, Education, Workforce, and Income
Security, Government Accountability Office (GAO); and Ms. Linda
Parker-Cooks, President, Local 138, American Federation of
Government Employees (AFGE).
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Examining VA's Challenges with
Ensuring Quality Contracted Disability Compensation
Examinations''
On September 18, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the Department of
Veterans Affairs' (VA) policies and processes for overseeing
contracted disability compensation exam vendors, including
whether VA ensures that exam vendors properly schedule veterans
for appropriate exams at appropriate facilities, perform high-
quality and legally adequate exams, and comply with VA's
contractual terms and requirements. The hearing also examined
whether VA is sufficiently holding exam vendors accountable for
mistakes that have a direct impact on veterans and their
eligibility for disability compensation benefits.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Mr. Ryan M. Gallucci, Director, National Veterans
Service, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States; Mr.
Jeffrey London, Executive Director, Medical Disability
Examination Office, Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans; Ms. Tara Flores, Director, Acquisition
Service, Strategic Acquisition Center, Office of Acquisition,
Logistics and Construction, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; and Ms. Elizabeth Curda, Director, Education,
Workforce, and Income Security, Government Accountability
Office.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
American Federation of Government Employees, AFL-CIO, National
Organization of Veterans' Advocates, Inc., Office of Inspector
General of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and
Paralyzed Veterans of America.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Our Nation's Hallowed Grounds: Review
of America's National Cemetery Funeral Operations for Veterans
and Servicemembers''
On November 13, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine two overarching
topics. First, the hearing examined the U.S Department of
Veterans Affairs' (VA's) progress towards ensuring veterans
have reasonable access to a burial option within 75 miles of
their homes, including VA's policies and processes for
establishing and expanding national cemeteries administered the
National Cemetery Administration, including cost estimate
procedures and land acquisition procedures; VA's Veterans
Cemetery Grants Program, including VA's policies and processes
for awarding grants and for overseeing maintenance of
established grant-funded state, tribal, and territory veterans
cemeteries; and VA's efforts to modernize its memorial affairs
technology. Second, the hearing examined the Department of the
Army's (Army's) efforts to resume full and sustainable
operations of the Caisson Platoon at Arlington National
Cemetery (ANC), including Army's progress towards resuming
military funerals with caisson support at ANC on behalf of
veterans, servicemembers, and their families.
There were two witness panels. The following witness
testified on the first panel: Major General Trevor J.
Bredenkamp, Commanding General, Joint Task Force--National
Capital Region, U.S. Army Military District of Washington.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Ronald E. Walters, Acting Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs,
National Cemetery Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Mr. Richard Chandler, Deputy Under Secretary for
Management, National Cemetery Administration, U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Robert J. Orifici, Executive Director,
Benefits and Memorial Systems, Office of Information and
Technology, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Rear Admiral
Jon C. Kreitz, U.S. Navy (Retired), Equestrian Expert; Ms.
Lesley Witter, Senior Vice President, Advocacy, National
Funeral Directors Association; and Mr. Shawn P. Buck, Director,
New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs,
Inc., Mr. Jose D. Acevedo, J.D., and Veterans of Foreign Wars
of the U.S.
ROUNDTABLES
Subcommittee Roundtable--``VBA Fiduciary Program and NICS Reporting''
On June 1, 2023, the Subcommittee conducted a bipartisan
staff-led, closed-door, roundtable to discuss the Veterans
Benefits Administration's fiduciary program, their reporting to
the National Instant Criminal Background Check System, and H.R.
705, the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act. The purpose of
the roundtable was to discuss the U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs' (VA) policy of reporting veterans, who have been
appointed a fiduciary to manage their VA benefits, to the
Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) National Instant
Criminal Background Check System (NICS).
In attendance were: Mr. John Kamin, Legislative Associate
and Grass Roots Coordinator, The American Legion; Ms. Christian
Heyne, Gun Violence Survivor and Vice President, Policy &
Programs, Brady United Against Gun Violence; Mr. Mark Collins,
Director, Federal Policy, Brady United Against Gun Violence;
Mr. Shane Liermann, Deputy National Legislative Director,
Disabled American Veterans; Mr. Marquis Barefield, Assistant
National Legislative Director, Disabled American Veterans; Mr.
Rob Wilcox, Federal Legal Director, Everytown for Gun Safety;
Mr. Lindsay Nichols, Law Center Policy Director, Giffords; and
Ms. Kristina Keenan, Deputy Director, National Legislative
Service, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.
Subcommittee Roundtable--``Exploring a Workable Standard for the Court
to Reverse Board Decisions''
On November 15, 2023, the Subcommittee conducted a staff-
led, closed-door roundtable. The purpose of this roundtable was
for veterans' advocates to discuss the U.S. Court of Appeals
for Veterans Claims' (Court's) reversal standard and explore
ideas for a workable standard of judicial review that would
allow for more Court reversals of VA Board of Veterans' Appeals
findings or decisions. The roundtable also explored ideas for
expanding the Court's jurisdiction to increase the finality of
claims decision, improve upon the Court's class action
authority, and ensure greater consistency of VA decision-making
on claims.
In attendance were: Ms. Renee Burbank, Director of
Litigation, National Veterans Legal Services Program; Ms. Amy
B. Kretkowski, Adjunct Professor of Veterans Benefits Law,
University of Iowa College of Law; Mr. Daniel Nagin, Clinical
Professor of Law and Faculty Director, WilmerHale Legal
Services Center; Mr. Gerald Ray, Administrative Appeals Judge,
Deputy Chair of the Appeals Council, and Deputy Executive
Director Office of Appellate Operations (retired), Social
Security Administration; Mr. James D. Ridgway, Partner,
Bergmann & Moore, LLC; Ms. Liza Sawyer, Legal Advisor, U.S.
Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit; Mr. Jonathan R.
Siegel, Professor of Law, George Washington University Law
School; Ms. Amy F. Odom, Appellate Strategy Coordinator,
Chisholm, Chisholm, & Kilpatrick; Ms. Stacey-Rae Simcox,
Professor of Law, Director of Veterans Law Institute and
Director of Veterans Advocacy Clinic, Stetson University
College of Law; and Mr. Michael J. Wishnie, William O. Douglas
Clinical Professor of Law, Yale Law School.
Subcommittee Roundtable--``Recommendations to Make VA's Notice Letters
Understandable for Veterans and Survivors''
On May 7, 2024, the Subcommittee conducted a bipartisan,
member-led, closed door, roundtable. The purpose of this
roundtable was for Members and VA leaders to hear from veterans
service organizations on how to make VA's notice letters
understandable for veterans and survivors. These notice letters
come from the VA and are sent to veterans and survivors when
they file for disability compensation and pension benefits.
In attendance were: Rep. Morgan Luttrell (Texas); Rep.
Chris Pappas (New Hampshire); Rep. Delia C. Ramirez (Illinois);
Rep. Elijah Crane (Arizona); General Jack Bergman (Michigan);
Rep. Keith Self (Texas); Ms. Brianne Ogilvie, Assistant Deputy
Under Secretary for Policy & Oversight, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Ms. Beth Murphy, Executive Director,
Compensation Service, Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Caroline Fleming, Veterans
Law Judge, Board of Veterans' Appeals, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Ms. Denise Kitts, Executive Director,
Enterprise Measurement and Design, Veterans Experience Office,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Brian Griffin, Deputy
Chief Counsel, Benefits Law Group, Office of General Counsel,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Diane Boyd Rauber,
Executive Director, National Organization of Veterans'
Advocates; Mr. Jim Marszalek, National Service Director,
Disabled American Veterans; Mr. Shane Liermann, Deputy National
Legislative Director, Disabled American Veterans; Mr.
Christopher A. Macinkowicz, Deputy Director, National Veterans
Service, Veterans of Foreign Wars; Mr. Michael S. Figlioli,
Director, National Veterans Service, Veterans of Foreign Wars;
Ms. Renee Burbank, Director of Legislation, National Veterans
Legal Service Program; Ms. Ashlynne Haycock-Lohmann, Deputy
Director, Government and Legislative Affairs, Tragedy
Assistance Program for Survivors; Ms. Krista Anderson, Policy
Advisor, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors; Mr. Philip
S. Du, Deputy Director of Benefits & Claims, Veterans Affairs &
Rehabilitation Division, The American Legion; Mr. Jake Corsi,
Legislative Associate, The American Legion; Mr. Morgan D.
Brown, National legislative Director, Paralyzed Veterans of
America; Mr. Peter Gaytan, Associate Executive Director,
Paralyzed Veterans of America; and Ms. Donna Eldridge,
Government Relations Committee, Gold Star Wives of America.
Subcommittee Roundtable--``More Recommendations to Make VA's Notice
Letters Understandable for Veterans and Survivors''
On June 27, 2024, the Subcommittee conducted a bipartisan
staff-led, closed-door, roundtable to obtain an update on VA's
efforts to improve notice letters and to further discuss to
improve VA notice letters, including the letters VA should
prioritize improving to make them more understandable for
veterans and survivors.
In attendance were: Mr. Kevin Friel, Deputy Director,
Pension and Fiduciary Service, Veterans Benefits
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Beth
Murphy, Executive Director, Compensation Service, Veterans
Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs;
Mr. Drew Craig, Design Chief, Enterprise Measurement and Design
Directorate, Veterans Experience Office, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Ms. Jessica Pierce, Assistant Director for
Policy, Compensation Service, Veterans Benefits Administration,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Diane Boyd Rauber,
Executive Director, National Organization of Veterans'
Advocates; Mr. Jim Marszalek, National Service Director,
Disabled American Veterans; Mr. Marquis Barefield, Assistant
National Legislative Director, Disabled American Veterans; Mr.
Christopher A. Macinkowicz, Deputy Director, National Veterans
Service, Veterans of Foreign Wars; Mr. Michael S. Figlioli,
Director, National Veterans Service, Veterans of Foreign Wars;
Ms. Alexis Ivory, Senior Staff Attorney, National Veterans
Legal Services Program; Ms. Ashlynne Haycock-Lohmann, Deputy
Director, Government and Legislative Affairs, Tragedy
Assistance Program for Survivors; Ms. Candace Wheeler,
Director, Government and Legislative Affairs, Tragedy
Assistance Program for Survivors; Mr. Philip S. Du, Deputy
Directory of Benefits and Claims, Veterans Affairs &
Rehabilitation Division, The American Legion; Mr. Jake Corsi,
Legislative Associate, The American Legion; Mr. Morgan D.
Brown, National Legislative Director, Paralyzed Veterans of
America; Mr. Peter Gaytan, Associate Executive Director,
Paralyzed Veterans of America; Ms. Donna Eldridge, Co-Chair
Government Relations Committee, Gold Star Wives of America,
Inc., Ms. Pamela Laurion, Co- Chair Government Relations
Committee, Gold Start Wives of America, Inc.
SITE VISITS
Columbia, South Carolina. On February 16, 2023, Disability
Assistance and Memorial Affairs and Oversight and
Investigations Subcommittees majority and minority staff
visited the Columbia Regional Office, Columbia VA Medical
Center, and the Women's Clinic. Staff conducted this visit
because this is one of the 6 fiduciary hubs across the country.
Staff heard from employees about problems in the fiduciary
program with the Annual Written Contact Only Program. Staff
also heard from regional office employees about how they were
unprepared to process PACT Act claims and concerns about the
number of errors being made in those claims.
Seattle, Washington & Salt Lake City, Utah. On March 13-16,
2023, Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs and Economic
Opportunity Subcommittees majority staff attended the VBA
Leadership Conference, the Seattle Regional Office, and the
Salt Lake City Regional Office. Staff conducted an oversight
visit and heard from Regional Office staff about the stress
from the implementation of the PACT Act. Staff also heard from
fiduciary hub employees about problems that informed a
subcommittee oversight hearing later in the year.
Houston, Texas. On May 5, 2023, the Subcommittee majority
staff accompanied Subcommittee Chairman Luttrell to the Houston
Regional Office to hear from employees about their concerns
with VA's implementation of the PACT Act. Chairman Luttrell and
staff heard concerns about the lack of efficiency in updating
the training for PACT Act. Employees also discussed the
National Work Queue and how they want more feedback to learn
from the errors they are making on veterans' claims.
Dayton, Ohio. On August 2, 2023, the Subcommittee majority
staff accompanied House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Chairman
Bost and Representative Mike Turner on an oversight visit to
the Dayton VA Medical Center and the Dayton National Cemetery.
Staff were briefed on the current medical research programs
ongoing at the Dayton VAMC, the Veterans History Project
running at the hospital, and the National Cemetery
Administration's current plans to expand the Cemetery.
Indianapolis, Indiana. On September 7, 2023, the
Subcommittee majority staff conducted an oversight visit to the
Indianapolis Regional Office. The purpose of this visit was to
hear about issues in this program from fiduciary hub employees
to inform a subcommittee oversight hearing held later that
year. Employees raised concerns, such as the need for more
effective, modernized systems and how tasks are not adequately
tracked across multiple systems. The Indianapolis RO was also
one of the ROs in charge of processing Military Sexual Trauma
(MST) claims, and staff heard from these employees about how
MST claims will be processed at one centralized RO going
forward.
Washington, District of Columbia. On October 12, 2023,
Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs and Technology and
Modernization Subcommittees majority and minority staff
conducted an oversight visit at the VA Board of Veterans'
Appeals (Board). Staff heard from Board leadership about
concerns with working through their over 200,000 inventory of
appeals. Staff received demos of the Board's appeals processing
systems and quality assurance methods. Board staff and judges
discussed inadequacies in their quality assurance and training
programs, which informed a subcommittee oversight hearing later
in the year as well as proposed legislation.
New Orleans, Louisiana. On January 26, 2024, Disability
Assistance and Memorial Affairs and Technology and
Modernization Subcommittees majority and minority staff visited
the New Orleans VBA Regional Office, a prototype site to test
automation tools developed for disability compensation claims
processing. RO staff acknowledged that accuracy of these tools
was improving but reported that claims processing systems as a
whole cause delays from frequent crashes and time outs.
Waco, Texas. On February 26, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority staff conducted an oversight visit to the Waco
Regional Office, the largest Veterans Service Center in the
nation. Employees reported satisfaction with the RO director
due to his providing opportunities for their professional
development, but they reported inadequate national training for
new hires, resulting in low quality work across the nation.
Employees also raised concerns about how PACT Act
implementation was rushed, and sub regulatory guidance and
training resources are inconsistent, which informed a
subcommittee oversight hearing later that year.
Houston, Texas. On February 27, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority staff accompanied Subcommittee Chairman Luttrell for
an oversight visit to the Houston VBA Regional Office to
evaluate claims processing and workload management,
particularly under the National Work Queue (NWQ). Under
Secretary for Benefits Joshua Jacobs highlighted VBA's progress
in reducing the claims backlog following the implementation of
the PACT Act. Discussions with RO leadership and the RO's
Quality Review Team (QRT) focused on the NWQ, including how the
system does not allow for employees to learn from all their
mistakes, which informed a Subcommittee oversight hearing later
in the year.
Dayton, Ohio. On March 18, 2024, the Subcommittee majority
staff accompanied Representative Mike Turner on an oversight
visit to the Dayton National Cemetery. This was then-Under
Secretary for Memorial Affairs Quinn's first visit to the
cemetery. They were briefed by National Cemetery Administration
(NCA) employees on construction plans for the expansion of the
cemetery, which would extend behind historical buildings and
run adjacent to a parking lot. Concerns were raised about the
NCA's lack of collaboration with the community regarding the
expansion plans, which informed a Subcommittee oversight
hearing later in the year.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. On April 17, 2024, the
Subcommittee majority staff conducted oversight visits to the
Philadelphia VBA Regional Office, Philadelphia National
Cemetery, and Mount Moriah Cemetery. At the RO's Pension
Management Center (PMC), employees processing survivors'
benefits claims raised concerns about the ineffectiveness of
automation tools provided to them, as well as automation tools
that should be provided to them but are only provided to
Compensation Service; glitches in technology systems; and low-
quality work at other PMCs. This informed proposed legislation
later in the year. At the Philadelphia National Cemetery,
employees discussed rising costs of maintenance, and at the
Mount Moriah Soldiers Plot and Naval Plot, staff observed the
revitalization and upkeep of these historic sites.
San Diego, California. On May 3, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority and minority staff conducted oversight visits to the
San Diego Regional Office, Miramar National Cemetery, and
Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar to assess claims
processing, cemetery operations, and the health and safety of
service members. At the RO, employees raised issues with
quality of national training, noting that local Quality Review
Teams often compensate for inadequate national training
programs by providing local training, which informed a
Subcommittee oversight hearing later that year. Marimar
National Cemetery provided staff a tour, and staff were pleased
with the immaculate state of the cemetery, despite their
challenges with recruitment and retention due to high cost of
living. At MCAS Miramar, service members shared concerns about
exposure to toxic substances, such as Jet Propellant 8 (JP-8),
and continued challenges related to accessing mental health
support on the base.
Des Moines, Iowa. On June 6, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority staff conducted oversight visits to the Des Moines
Regional Office and the Iowa Veterans Cemetery. At the RO,
staff observed the Veterans Benefits Administration's first
annual Quality Standdown Day training, and employees told staff
that though the training was beneficial generally, local
training fills in many gaps in the national training. Employees
emphasized the need for improved national training and clearer
guidance on Toxic Exposure Risk Activity claims under the PACT
Act. At the Iowa Veterans Cemetery, a state grant-funded
cemetery, staff expressed concerns about inadequate funding
from the Iowa state government and the National Cemetery
Administration, as well as staffing shortages and outdated
equipment, which they noted hinder cemetery operations. This
informed a subcommittee oversight hearing later that year.
Lincoln, Nebraska. On June 7, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority staff conducted oversight visits to the Lincoln
Regional Office and Omaha National Cemetery. At the Lincoln RO,
employees noted improvements to the automation tools for
processing simple claims but noted that the automation tools
are ineffective in complex cases, requiring manual
intervention. RO staff also highlighted the need for more
comprehensive national training for claims processors. At
Offutt Air Force Base, airmen operating the Boeing RC 135
``Rivet Joint'' reconnaissance aircraft raised concerns about
hazardous conditions during missions, including high-intensity
radio wave exposure, electrical fires, cramped working spaces,
and emotional strain from their missions. At the Omaha National
Cemetery, leadership raised concerns about staffing shortages
and the urn/plaque benefit policy, which informed proposed
legislation.
Roanoke, Virginia. On June 18, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority staff conducted an oversight visit to the Roanoke
Regional Office, a recently designated site for processing
backlogged Military Sexual Trauma (MST) claims. Employees noted
inadequate training, given no option to opt out of processing
such claims, and rushed implementation at their office. The
reports of inadequate training for MST claims processors
informed proposed legislation.
ACTIVITIES OF THE SUBCOMMITTEE ON
ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY
DERRICK VAN ORDEN, Wisconsin, Chairman
MIKE LEVIN, California, Ranking Member
NANCY MACE, South Carolina FRANK MRVAN, Indiana
SCOTT FRANKLIN, Florida MORGAN McGARVEY, Kentucky
JUAN CISCOMANI, Arizona DELIA RAMIREZ, Illinois
ELI CRANE, Arizona
------
Katy Flynn, Majority Staff Director
Justin Vogt, Minority Staff Director
LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITIES
Subcommittee Markup. On April 18, 2023, the Subcommittee
held a markup on H.R. 645, Healthy Foundations for Homeless
Veterans Act; H.R. 728, To Direct the Assistant Secretary of
Labor for Veterans' Employment and Training to carry out a
pilot program on short-term programs for veterans; H.R. 746,
Streamlining Aviation for Eligible Veterans Act; H.R. 1169, VA
E-Notification Enhancement Act; H.R. 1635, the Filipino
Education Fairness Act; H.R. 1669, VET-TEC Authorization Act of
2023; H.R. 1767, Student Veteran Benefit Restoration Act; H.R.
1786, Get Rewarding Outdoor Work for our Veterans Act; H.R.
1798, Protect Military Dependents Act; and H.R. 1799, EMPLOY
VETS Act. H.R. 746, H.R. 1169, H.R. 1635, and H.R. 1786 were
ordered reported by voice vote to Full Committee, without
amendment. H.R. 728, H.R. 1767, H.R. 1669, H.R. 1798, H.R. 645,
and H.R. 1799 were ordered reported by voice vote to Full
Committee, as amended.
The following groups submitted letters of support:
Military-Veterans Advocacy
Subcommittee Markup. On July 19, 2023, the Subcommittee
held a markup on H.R. 3848, HOME Act of 2023; H.R. 3874,
Veterans Education Assistance Improvement Act; H.R. 3898,
Transcript Assurance for Heroes Act; H.R. 3900, To amend title
38, United States Code, to establish certain rights for spouses
of members of the uniformed services; H.R. 3933, TAP Promotion
Act; H.R. 3943, Servicemember Employment Protection Act of
2023; and H.R. 3981, Veterans Education Oversight Expansion
Act. H.R. 3933 and H.R. 3874 were ordered reported by voice
vote to Full Committee, without amendment. H.R. 3943, H.R.
3848, H.R. 3900, H.R. 3898, and H.R. 3981 were ordered reported
by voice vote to Full Committee, as amended.
Subcommittee Markup. On November 15, 2023, the Subcommittee
held a markup on H.R. 522, Deliver for Veterans Act; H.R. 2830,
Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of 2023; H.R.
3601, Student Veteran Work Study Modernization Act; H.R. 3722,
Daniel J. Harvey, Jr. and Adam Lambert Improving Servicemember
Transition to Reduce Veteran Suicide Act and the Amendment in
the Nature of a Substitute to it; H.R. 3738, To amend title 38,
United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans
Affairs the Veterans Economic Opportunity and Transition
Administration, and for other purposes; H.R. 5785, To amend
title 38, United States Code, to modify the requirements of the
Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship and the Amendment in the
Nature of a Substitute to it; H.R. 5913, Consolidating Veteran
Employment Services for Improved Performance Act of 2023; H.R.
5914, To amend title, United States Code, to improve the
processes to approve programs of education for purposes of the
educational assistance programs of the Department of Veterans
Affairs, and for other purposes; H.R. 5956, G.I. Bill
Improvement Act of 2023; and H.R. 6193 To amend title 38,
United States Code, to waive the fee for a housing loan
guaranteed by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for a veteran
with a service-connected disability who applied for such loan
before receiving a disability rating from the Secretary. H.R.
522, H.R. 3601, H.R. 3738, H.R. 5914, H.R. 5956, H.R. 2830, and
H.R. 6913 were ordered reported by voice vote to Full
Committee, without amendment. H.R. 3722 and H.R. 5785 were
ordered reported by voice vote to Full Committee, as amended.
H.R. 5913 was withdrawn.
Subcommittee Markup. On April 17, 2024, the Subcommittee
held a markup on H.R. 6225, Expanding Home Loans for Guard and
Reservists Act; H.R. 6656, Stuck on Hold Act; H.R. 7323,
Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserves Tuition Fairness Act; H.R.
7613, Veterans Flight Training Responsibility Act of 2024; H.R.
7643, Veterans Congressional Work Study Act of 2024; H.R. 7653,
VERY Act of 2024; and H.R. 7732, ETS Act. H.R. 6656, H.R. 7613,
H.R. 7732, H.R. 6225, and H.R. 7643, were ordered reported by
voice vote to Full Committee, as amended. H.R. 7323 and H.R.
7653 were ordered reported by voice vote to Full Committee,
without amendment.
Subcommittee Markup. On June 27, 2024, the Subcommittee
held a markup on H.R. 226, Veterans Collaboration Act; H.R.
7896, VETS Opportunity Act of 2024; H.R. 7920, Agriculture
Grants for Veteran Education and Training Services Act; H.R.
8592, Warriors to Workforce Act; H.R. 8646, Modernizing the
Veterans On-Campus Experience Act of 2024; H.R. 8647, VA Home
Loan Program Reform Act; H.R. 8661, Reforming Education for
Veterans Act; H.R. 7543, Guard and Reserve GI Bill Parity Act
of 2024; H.R. 8560, End Veteran Homelessness Act of 2024; H.R.
8514, To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide an
annual increase in stipend for books, supplies, equipment, and
other education costs under Post-9/11 Educational Assistance
Program of Department of Veterans Affairs; and H.R. 8627,
Student Veteran Debt Relief Act of 2024. H.R. 226, H.R. 7896,
H.R. 8592, H.R. 8646, H.R. 8647, H.R. 8661, H.R. 7543, H.R.
8514, and H.R. 8627, as amended, were order reported to full
committee, passed by voice vote. H.R. 7920 and H.R. 8560,
without amendment, were order reported to full committee,
passed by voice vote.
LEGISLATIVE HEARINGS
Subcommittee Legislative Hearing--``Legislative hearing on H.R. 291,
Vaccine Discharge Parity Act; H.R. 645, Healthy Foundations for
Homeless Veterans Act; H.R. 728, To direct the Assistant
Secretary of Labor for Veterans' Employment and Training to
carry out a pilot program on short-term programs for veterans;
H.R. 746, Streamlining Aviation for Eligible Veterans Act; H.R.
1169, VA E-Notification Enhancement Act; H.R. 1635, the
Filipino Education Fairness Act; H.R. 1669, VET-TEC
Authorization Act of 2023; H.R. 1767, Student Veteran Benefit
Restoration Act; H.R. 1786, Get Rewarding Outdoor Work for our
Veterans Act; H.R. 1798, Protect Military Dependents Act; and
H.R. 1799, Ensure Military Personnel Learn Opportunities
Yielding Vocations that Employ Transitioning Servicemembers
Act.''
On March 30, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct a legislative hearing on the above bills. There were
two witness panels. The following witnesses testified on the
first panel: Mr. Joseph Garcia, Executive Director of Education
Service, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Nick
Pamperin, Executive Director of Veteran Readiness and
Employment, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Dr. Keith
Harris, Senior Executive Homelessness Agent, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Ms.
Tammy Barlet, Vice President of Government Affairs, Student
Veterans of America; Mr. Matthew Brennan, Veteran Education and
Employment Policy Analyst, The American Legion; Ms. Alicia
Boddy, Chief Operations and Development Officer, Code Platoon;
and Mr. Patrick Murray, Director, National Legislative Service,
Veterans of Foreign Wars.
The following group submitted a statement for the record:
Disabled American Veterans and National Coalition for Homeless
Veterans.
Subcommittee Legislative Hearing--``Legislative Hearing on H.R. 491,
Return Home to Housing Act; H.R. 3874, Veterans Education
Assistance Improvement Act; H.R. 3848, Housing our Military
Veterans Effectively Act; H.R. 3933, TAP Promotion Act; H.R.
3898, Transcript Assurance for Heroes Act; H.R. 3981, Isakson-
Roe Education Oversight Expansion Act; H.R. 3943, Servicemember
Employment Protection Act of 2023; and H.R. 3900, To amend
title 38, to establish certain employment and reemployment
rights for spouses of members of the uniformed services.''
On June 14, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct a legislative hearing on the above bills. There were
two witness panels. The following witnesses testified for the
first panel: Mr. Joseph Garcia, Executive Director of Education
Service, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Melissa
Cohen, Deputy Executive Director of Outreach, Transition, and
Economic Development, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms.
Monica Diaz, Executive Director, Office of Homeless Programs,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. James Rodriguez,
Assistant Secretary for Veterans' Employment and Training
Services, U.S. Department of Labor; and Mr. Paul Marone, USERRA
Policy Chief for Veterans' Employment and Training Service,
U.S. Department of Labor.
The following witnesses testified for the second panel: Mr.
Patrick Murray, Director, National Legislative Service,
Veterans of Foreign Wars; Mr. Ricardo Gomez, Employment &
Education Policy Associate, The American Legion; Mr. Matthew
Schwartzman, Director, Legislation and Military Policy, Reserve
Organization of America; Ms. Meredith M. Smith, Government
Relations Deputy Director, National Military Family
Association; and Mr. Kevin Hollinger, Legislative Director,
Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United
States.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
The American Legion, Alston Wilkes Society, Disabled American
Veterans, Families and Community Services, Inc., HVAF of
Indiana, Inc., Rep. Morgan McGarvey, Nation's Finest, New
England Center, Operation Dignity, Mr. Ryan Thompson, U.S. Vets
Inglewood, U.S. Vets Inland Empire, U.S. Vets Long Beach, U.S.
Vets Prescott, Veterans Education Success, Veterans Integration
Centers, and Volunteers of America.
Subcommittee Legislative Hearing--``H.R. 522, Deliver for Veterans Act;
H.R. 2830, Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of
2023; H.R. 3601, Student Veteran Work Study Modernization Act;
H.R. 3722, Daniel J. Harvey, Jr. and Adam Lambert Improving
Servicemember Transition to Reduce Veteran Suicide Act and the
Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to it; H.R. 3738, To
amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the
Department of Veterans Affairs the Veterans Economic
Opportunity and Transition Administration, and for other
purposes; H.R. 3816, Veterans' Entry to Apprenticeship Act;
H.R. 5190, Military Family Protection from Debt Act; H.R. 5702,
Expanding Access for Online Veteran Students Act; H.R. 5785, To
amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the requirements
of the Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship; H.R. 5913,
Consolidating Veteran Employment Services for Improved
Performance Act of 2023; H.R. 5914, To amend title, United
States Code, to improve the processes to approve programs of
education for purposes of the educational assistance programs
of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes;
H.R. 5956, G.I. Bill Improvement Act of 2023; and Discussion
Draft, To amend title 38, United States Code, to waive the fee
for a housing loan guaranteed by the Secretary of Veterans
Affairs for a veteran with a service-connected disability who
applied for such loan before receiving a disability rating from
the Secretary.''
On November 2, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct a legislative hearing on the above bills. There were
two witness panels. The following witnesses testified on the
first panel: Mr. Joseph Garcia, Executive Director, Education
Services, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Nick
Pamperin, Executive Director, Veterans Readiness & Employment
Services, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. James
Ruhlman, Deputy Director, Education Services, U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs; and Ms. Margarita Devlin, Deputy Assistant
Secretary Operations and Management, U.S. Department of Labor.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Ms.
Kristina Keenan, Deputy Director, National Legislative Service,
Veterans of Foreign Wars; Mr. Marquis Barefield, Assistant
National Legislative Director, Disabled American Veterans; Ms.
Tammy Barlet, Vice President of Government Affairs, Student
Veterans of America; Mr. Joseph W. Wescott II, Ed.D.,
Legislative Director, National Association of State Approving
Agencies, Inc.; and Mr. Michael Hazard, Veterans in Piping
Program Manager, United Association of Journeymen and
Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry of the
United States and Canada.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Commercial Vehicle Training Association, National Association
of State Workforce Agencies, The American Legion, Veterans
Education Project, and Veterans Education Success.
Subcommittee Legislative Hearing--``H.R. 6656, Stuck on Hold Act; H.R.
7323, To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the
Secretary of Veterans Affairs to disapprove courses of
education offered by a public institution of higher learning
that does not charge the in-State tuition rate to a veteran
using certain educational assistance under title 10 of such
Code; H.R. 7613, To amend title 38, United States Code, to
provide for a limitation on the amount of entitlement to
educational assistance payable for flight training under the
Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of
Veterans Affairs; Discussion Draft, To amend title 38, United
States Code, to provide for the restoration of entitlement of
individuals entitled to educational assistance under the laws
administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs who use such
entitlement to pursue a course or program of education at an
educational institution found to have violated certain
prohibitions on advertising, sales, and enrollment practices,
and for other purposes; H.R. 7732, To amend titles 10 and 38,
United States Code, to make improvements to certain programs
for a member nearing separation, or for a veteran who recently
separated, from the Armed Forces, and for other purposes; H.R.
6225, Expanding Home Loans for Guard and Reservists Act; H.R.
7643, To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the
use of Department of Veterans Affairs work-study allowance to
carry out casework, policy making, and oversight related to the
activities of the Department at certain congressional offices;
H.R. 7653, To amend title 38, United States Code, to update
certain terminology regarding veteran employment; and H.R.
7703, Fair Access to Co-ops for Veterans Act of 2024''
On March 20, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct a legislative hearing on the above bills. There were
two witness panels. The following witnesses testified on the
first panel: Ms. Melissa Cohen, Executive Director, Executive
Director of Outreach, Transition, and Economic Development,
Veterans Benefits, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr.
Nathan Sanfilippo, Executive Director of Multichannel
Technology, Veterans Experience Office, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Mr. Thomas Alphonso, Assistance Director of
Education Services, Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr. James Rodriguez,
Assistant Secretary for Veterans' Employment and Training
Service, U.S. Department of Labor.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Ms.
Nadine Bullock-Pottinga, Chief Development Officer, Hire Heroes
USA; Mr. Gregory John, Founder & President, Infinity Flight
Group; Mr. Matthew Schwartzman, Director, Legislation and
Military Policy, Reserve Organization of America; Ms. Kristina
Keenan, Deputy Director, National Legislative Service, Veterans
of Foreign Wars; and Mr. Marquis Barefield, Assistant National
Legislative Director, Disabled American Veterans.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Representative Ken Calvert (California), Disable American
Veterans, The American Legion, Veterans Education Success,
USAA, and Joint Statement- RecruitMilitary, Orion Talent,
ZeroMils, Semper Forward, and Military Talent Pipeline, LLC.
Subcommittee Legislative Hearing--``H.R. 226, the Veterans
Collaboration Act, H.R. 7543, the Guard and Reserve GI Bill
Parity Act of 2024, H.R. 7896, the VETS Opportunity Act of
2024, H.R. 7920, Agriculture Grants for Veterans Education and
Training Services Act, H.R. 8529, Warriors to Workforce Act,
H.R. 8661, the Reforming Education for Veterans Act, H.R. 8646,
Modernizing the Veterans On-Campus Experience Act, H.R. 8647,
the VA Home Loan Reform Act, H.R. 8514, To amend title 38,
United States Code, to provide for an annual increase in
stipend for books, supplies, equipment, and other educational
costs under Post9/11 Educational Assistance Program of
Department of Veterans Affairs, H.R. 8560, the End Veteran
Homelessness Act of 2024, H.R. 8627, the Student Veteran Debt
Relief Act of 2024, and H.R. 8607, To amend title 38 United
States Code, to make certain legatees of certain eligible
veterans eligible for housing loans guaranteed by the Secretary
of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.''
On June 12, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct a legislative hearing on the above bills. There were
two witness panels. The following witnesses testified on the
first panel: Mr. John Bell, Executive Director, Loan Guaranty
Service, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Joseph
Garcia, Executive Director, Education Service, U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs; Mr. James Ruhlman, Deputy Director,
Education Service, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Ms.
Jill Albanese, Director, Clinical Operations/Senior Advisor,
Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Dr.
Jan Del Signore, President, National Association of Veterans
Program Administrators; Mr. Kevin O'Neil, Senior Employment and
Education Policy Association, The American Legion; Ms. Karen
Kreutziger Powell, Chief Executive Officer of Flat Home Loans,
Mortgage Bankers Association; Mr. Marquis Barefield, Assistant
National Legislative Director, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; and Mr. Richard Brookshire, Chief Executive Officer,
Black Veterans Project.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Housing Policy Council, The Military Coalition, National
Association of Realtors, National Consumer Law Center, Navy
Federal Credit Union, National Guard Association of the United
States, Reserve Organization of America, Student Veterans of
America, Veterans Education Success, Veterans of Foreign Wars
of the U.S., Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the
U.S., National Alliance to End Homelessness.
OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Examining the Future of Workforce
Protections for Servicemembers''
On March 9, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing on the status of the Uniformed
Services Employment and Reemployment Right Act (USERRA). The
Subcommittee sought to review the oversight of the Department
of Labor's Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS)
control of USERRA, and determine what future changes should be
made, if any. The hearing also examined how USERRA has impacted
servicemembers and has been enforced through VETS. Lastly, the
hearing reviewed potential changes from stakeholders that
should be made to better protect servicemembers and businesses.
There were two witness panels for this hearing. The
following witness testified on the first panel: Mr. James
Rodriguez, Assistant Secretary for Veterans' Employment and
Training Service, U.S. Department of Labor.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Col.
Gilbert L. Patton (Ret.), Reserve Organization of America; Mr.
Mike Hadley, Director of Legislative Affairs, National Guard
Association of the United States; Mr. Kevin Hollinger,
Legislative Director, Enlisted Association of the National
Guard of the United States; and Mr. Jonathan E. Taylor,
Principal, Gupta Wessler.
The following group submitted a statement for the record:
U.S. Department of Defense.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``All Hands on Deck: Ending Veteran
Homelessness in San Diego''
On May 4, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight field hearing in Oceanside, California to
examine the current state of veteran homelessness in San Diego,
and future steps of the U.S. Department on Veterans Affairs and
local stakeholders should take to reach functional zero in the
region.
There were two witness panels for this hearing. The
following witnesses testified on the first panel: Mr. Frank P.
Pearson, DPT, PA-C, Director, Jennifer Moreno VA San Diego
Healthcare System, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms.
Jill Albanese, Senior Advisor and Director of Clinical
Operations, Homeless Program Office, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Ms. Leilani A. Hines, Housing and
Neighborhood Services Director, Oceanside Public Housing
Authority; Mr. David Estrella, Director of Housing and
Community Development, San Diego County Public Housing
Authority; and Mr. Matthew Wechter, Supervising Attorney,
Public Defendant Homeless Court Team, San Diego County.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Greg Anglea, CEO, Interfaith Community Services; Ms. Hanan
Scrapper, Regional Director, PATH San Diego, People Assisting
the Homeless (PATH); Dr. Dustin Potash, Veterans Director,
Adjoin; and Mr. Sean Spear, President and CEO, Community
Housing Works.
The following group submitted statements for the record:
San Diego Regional Housing Commission.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``The Transition Assistance Program:
Steps to Ensure Success for Servicemembers as they Enter
Civilian Life''
On May 17, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine the current state of
the Transition Assistance Program across the armed services and
determine what steps should be made to continue modernizing and
reforming the program through legislation.
There were two witness panels for this hearing. The
following witnesses testified on the first panel: Mr. Alex
Baird, Acting Director of the Defense Support Services Center,
U.S. Department of Defense; Ms. Cheryl J. Rawls, Executive
Director, Outreach, Transition and Economic Development, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Margarita Devlin, Deputy
Assistant Secretary, U.S. Department of Labor; Ms. Dawn Locke,
Director, Strategic Studies, Government Accountability Office.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Ms.
Brittany Dymond, Associate Director, National Security and
Foreign Affairs Directorate, Veterans of Foreign Wars; Mr.
Michael Quinn, Chief Executive Officer, Hire Military & Tenova
LLC; Dr. Abby Kinch, PhD, Chief of Staff, Student Veterans of
America; Mr. Jim Lorraine, President and CEO, America's Warrior
Partnership; and Mr. Hernan y Prado, Founder and CEO, Workshops
for Warriors.
Joint Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Reviewing the Digital G.I. Bill
Program''
On July 13, 2023, the Subcommittees on Economic Opportunity
and Technology Modernization held a joint oversight hearing to
examine the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs progress
implementing the Digital G.I. Bill IT system, which aims to
streamline G.I. Bill claims processing by consolidating
antiquated legacy IT systems and automating steps.
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: Mr. Joseph Garcia, Executive Director,
Education Service, Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Robert Orifici, Benefits
and Memorial Services Portfolio Director, Office of Information
& Technology, U.S. Department of Veterans; Mr. Troy Mueller,
Senior Advisor and Department Head, Veterans Benefits
Administration Mission, MITRE; Mr. David Powner, Executive
Director, Center for Data-Driven Policy, MITRE; and Mr. Kyle
Michl, DGIB Senior Delivery and Chief Innovation Officer,
Accenture Federal Services.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Less is More: The Impact of
Bureaucratic Red Tape on Veterans Education Benefits''
On September 20, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the current state of
the G.I. Bill and the implantation and utilization of Risk-
Based Surveys at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs'
veteran education services. The Subcommittee also reviewed the
impact of new rules and procedures on veterans, institutions of
higher learning, State Approving Agencies, and the VA itself.
They also sought to consider steps VA could take to improve GI
Bill benefits, alleviate the burden on participating
educational institutions, and ensure veterans receive a high-
quality benefits experience.
There were two witness panels for this hearing. The
following witnesses testified on the first panel: Mr. Joseph
Garcia, Executive Director, Education Service, Veterans
Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs;
Mr. James Ruhlman, Deputy Director, Program Management,
Education Service, Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr. Joseph W. Wescott II,
Ed.D., Legislative Director, National Association of State
Approving Agencies, Inc.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mrs.
Anne Meehan, Assistant Vice President, Government Relations,
American Council on Education; Dr. Jan Del Signore, President,
National Association of Veterans' Program Administrators; Mr.
Will Hubbard, Vice President for Veterans and Military Policy,
Veterans Education Succes; and Mr. Joe Rasmussen, Director,
University Veteran Services at UW-Madison.
The following groups submitted as statement for the record:
The American Legion and Mr. Charles Bernstein.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Sink or Swim? A Deep Dive into the
Current State of VA's Home Loan Program in a Competitive
Market''
On February 15, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the current state of
the Home Loan Guaranty program and VA's Servicing Purchase
(VASP) program, which will be released in 2024. The
Subcommittee aimed to review the VA home loan program,
including VA procedures governing mortgages, appraisals,
refinancing, and foreclosures, with input from stakeholders
such as veterans, mortgage brokers, and VA. Finally, the
Subcommittee considered steps VA could take to improve the home
loan and VASP program in a fiscally responsible manner and
ensure veterans receive a high-quality homebuying experience.
There were two witness panels. The following witness
testified on the first panel: Mr. John E. Bell, Executive
Director, Loan Guaranty Service, Veterans Benefits
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Edward J. DeMarco, President, Housing Policy Council; Mr. Mark
Jones, Chairman, Mortgage Bankers Association; and Mr. Steve
Sharpe, Senior Attorney, National Consumer Law Center.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Exploring the Use of Data-Driven
Methods and Community Collaboration to Reduce Veteran
Homelessness''
On June 27, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to the current state of veteran
homelessness, analyze data collection methods, and assess
community collaboration initiatives aimed at reducing veteran
homelessness. The Subcommittee explored data capabilities at VA
and steps that VA and its community partners can use to
identify housing-insecure veterans and connect them with
appropriate resources to achieve functional zero within
communities.
There were two witness panels for this hearing. The
following witnesses testified on the first panel: Dr. Thomas
O'Toole, Deputy Undersecretary for Health Clinical Services,
Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; and Mr. Jeff Olivet, Executive Director, U.S.
Interagency Council on Homelessness.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Ms.
Rosanne Haggerty, President, Community Solutions; Mr. Ray
Carville, Public Affairs Manager, Veterans Inc.; Dr. Randy
Withrow, Site Director, Veterans Housing and Recovery Program,
Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan; and
Mr. Nick Wood, Regional Site Director, Nations' Finest.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Black Veterans Empowerment Council, Inc., Endeavors, New
England Center and Home for Veterans, and Rep. Deila Ramirez.
Subcommittee Oversight Joint Hearing--``Leveling the Playing Field:
Examining the Landscape of Veteran Owned Small Businesses''
On July 23, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight joint hearing with the Committee on Small
Business, Subcommittee on Contracting and Infrastructure to
highlight the experience of veterans in establishing and
running a small business. The hearing aimed to create awareness
regarding programs and assistance for veterans and emphasize
the benefits of veterans and military spouses establishing and
running small businesses. The hearing focused on veteran-owned
small businesses (VOSBs) and service-disabled veteran-owned
small businesses (SDVOSBs) and what the Committees can do to
eliminate any potential barriers to the veteran
entrepreneurship.
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: Ms. Stephanie Brown, CEO and Founder, The
Rosie Network; Mr. Stephen Hayduk, Senior Principal, Hayduk
Engineering LLC; Mr. Bill Belknap, President, AEONRG, LLC; and
Mr. Jon Tellier, President, JetCo Solutions.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
America's Credit Unions
Subcommittee Oversight Field Hearing--``Examining Transitioning
Servicemembers Experience''
On August 23, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight field hearing at the University of
Wisconsin La Crosse, in La Crosse, Wisconsin to examine the
veteran transition experience, both on and off campus, and
steps the Department of Veteran's Affairs, schools, veteran
service organizations, and community members could take to
improve the experience for veterans.
There were two witness panels for this hearing. The
following witnesses testified on the first panel: Mr. Duane
Honeycutt, Executive Director, Milwaukee VA Regional Office,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Nick Pamperin,
Executive Director, Veteran Readiness and Employment, Veterans
Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs;
and Ms. Melissa Cohen, Executive Director, Outreach Transition,
and Economic Development, Veterans Benefits Administration,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Joe Quackenboss, Veteran Service Officer, Trempealeau County;
Mr. Dustin Schultz, Veteran Specialist, Western Technical
College; Ms. Danielle Luba, Commander, Veterans of Foreign
Wars; Ms. Kaytlyn Brown, Student Veteran, Western Technical
College; and Mr. Adrian Moreno, Student Veteran, University of
Wisconsin La Cross.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Disabled American Veterans
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Mission Transition: Evaluating Mental
Health Support Programs for Separating Servicemembers''
On September 10, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to focus on the effectiveness
of current mental health care programs during the transition
from military to civilian life. Additionally, the Subcommittee
assessed data capabilities and explored strategies for VA, DOL,
and DOD to better identify and connect with veterans in need of
mental health resources.
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: Ms. Melissa Cohen, Executive Director,
Outreach Transition, and Economic Development, Veterans
Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs;
Ms. Jill Debord, Executive Director, Care Management and Social
Work, Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Ms. Susan Orsega, Deputy Assistant Secretary
of Defense for Health Services Policy and Oversight, U.S.
Department of Defense; Ms. Alyssa Hundrup, Director of Health
Care, Government Accountability Office; and Mr. James
Rodriguez, Assistant Secretary for Veterans' Employment and
Training Service, U.S. Department of Labor.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Western Governors Association
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Digital GI Bill in Disarray: Holding
the Biden-Harris Administration Accountable for VA's Costly
Mismanagement''
On September 26, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs' (VA) progress at retiring antiquated
legacy IT systems and implementing the Digital G.I. Bill IT
system, which aims to streamline the processing of education
benefits under the G.I. Bill. The hearing focused on the report
from the Office of Inspector General (OIG) highlighting issues
with the planning, expectations, and execution of the Digital
GI Bill (DGIB) project. The hearing also reviewed the
recommendations of the Office of the Inspector General to
improve the program and ideas to make the DGIB program more
efficient for veterans.
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: Mr. Ronald Burke, Undersecretary for
Policy and Oversight, Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Robert Orifici, Executive
Director, Benefits and Memorial Services, Office of Information
and Technology, Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Joseph Garcia, Executive
Director, Education Services, Veterans Benefits Administration,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Nicholas Dahl, Deputy
Assistant Inspector General, Management and Administration,
Office of the Inspector General, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; and Mr. Justin Parke, Managing Director, DGIB Program
Manager, Accenture Federal Services; and MITRE.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
The MITRE Corporation
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Examining the Effectiveness of the
Veterans Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program''
On December 11, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine several aspects of
the VR&E program, including staffing, management, outcomes,
effectiveness, and needs. The subcommittee focused on the
recent increase in applicants due to the PACT Act, as well as
the impact this surge has had on counselor caseloads and
veterans' experiences. Additionally, this hearing highlighted
the strengths of the VR&E program in serving veterans and
identify areas for improvement.
There were two witness panels for this hearing. The
following witnesses testified on the first panel: Mr. Nick
Pamperin, Executive Director, Veteran Readiness and Employment,
Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; and Mr. Kenneth P. Smith, Assistant Deputy Under
Secretary, Operation Management Team, Veterans Benefits
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Ms.
Julie Howell, Associate Legislative Director for Government
Relations, Paralyzed Veterans of America; and Dr. Keith
Glindemann, President, National Association of Veteran Program
Administrators.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. and Student Veterans of
America.
ROUNDTABLES
Subcommittee Roundtable--``Transition Assistance Program''
On September 11, 2023, the Subcommittee conducted a
roundtable with the four corners and veteran service
organizations to discuss potential improvements for the
Transition Assistance Program, evaluate gaps in services and
servicemembers' and dependents' accessibility to services,
examine consistency across the services/OSD support in
accordance with mission readiness, discuss retirement/
separation/spousal employment barriers, and discuss unique
transition issues in the Guard and Reserve components.
In attendance were: Mr. Michael Bianchi, Institute for
Veterans and Military Families; Ms. Deborah Bradford, Institute
for Veterans and Military Families; Ms. Ashley Scott, Blue Star
Families; Ms. Jenny Akin, Blue Star Families; Mr. Matt
Schwartzmann, Reserve Officers Association; Mr. Trey Criner,
Reserve Officers Association; Mr. Julian M. Plamann; National
Guard Association of the United States; Ms. Marcy Weldin,
National Guard Association of the United States; Mr. Kevin
Hollinger, Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the
United States; Mr. Joe Sharpe, The American Legion; Mr. John
Kaim, The American Legion; Mr. Pat Murray, Veterans of Foreign
Wars; Ms. Brittany Dymond, Veterans of Foreign Wars; Mr. Cory
Titus, Military Officers Association of America; Mr. Pat
Williams, Military Officers Association of America; Mr. Marquis
Barefield, Disabled American Veterans; Mr. Matt Jahn, Disabled
American Veterans; Mr. Morgan Brown, Paralyzed Veterans of
America; Mr. Charles McCaffrey, Paralyzed Veterans of America;
Mr. Aleks Morosky, Wounded Warrior Project; Mr. Jeremy
Villanueva, Wounded Warrior Project; Ms. Tammy Barlet, Student
Veterans of America; Mr. Thomas Winkel, Arizona Coalition for
Military Families; Ms. Kelly Hruska, National Military Family
Association; Mr. Michael Quinn, HireMilitary; Mr. Chris Thorne,
North San Diego Business Chamber; Dr. Arthur S. DeGroat, Ed.D.,
Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.), Military Innovation Center-Kansas
State University; Mr. Will Hubbard, Veterans Education Success;
Mr. James Rodriguez, U.S. Department of Labor; Ms. Cheryl J.
Rawls, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr. John
Boerstler, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Subcommittee Roundtable--``Higher Education Roundtable''
On January 18, 2024, the Subcommittee conducted a
roundtable with the four corners and higher education groups to
discuss potential improvements for the GI Bill Comparison Tool,
current data collection practices, H.R. 5956, evaluation of
gaps in veteran-specific data collection, and GI Bill return on
investment.
In attendance were: Mr. Jeff Arthur, ECPI University; Mr.
Alex Cassell, American Council on Education; Ms. Anne Meehan,
American Council on Education; Stephanie Giesecke, National
Association of Independent Colleges and Universities; Mr.
Justin Monk, National Association of Independent Colleges and
Universities; Mr. Jim Hermes, American Association of Community
Colleges; Mr. Kent Phillippe, American Association of Community
Colleges; Ms. Bao Le, Association of Public & Land-Grant
Universities; Mr. Craig Lindwarm, Association of Public & Lane-
Grant Universities; Mr. Morgan Taylor, American Association of
State Colleges and Universities; and Mr. John Patrick Walsh,
American Association of State Colleges and Universities.
SITE VISITS
Orlando, Florida. On January 6, 2023, the Subcommittee
majority and minority staff attended the Student Veterans of
America 2023 National Conference in Orlando, FL. Committee
staff participated in a conference legislative priorities panel
and a breakout session with Veterans Service Organizations
(VSO) and conference attendees. Committee staff highlighted
recent legislative proposals passed into law, discussed
priorities for the 118th Congress, and listened to concerns
from G.I. Bill beneficiaries and School Certifying Officials.
Portland, Oregon. On February 22, 2023, the Subcommittee
majority and minority staff conducted a site visit to the
Vancouver, Washington VA Medical Center to review the Portland,
Oregon, and surrounding area Homeless Program Office (HPO).
Staff met with HPO leadership to discuss the status of VA
homeless programs in the area. The Portland-Vancouver HPO
focuses heavily on housing homeless veterans through the Grant
and Per-Diem (GPD) program, but they had been having staffing
issues. Committee staff discussed ways the HPO had been able to
overcome staffing issues and listened to what ways GPD could
still be improved. Committee Staff also visited an on-campus
Enhanced Use-Lease facility that was under renovation.
Unfortunately, Committee staff were unable to visit a GPD
provider in Portland because of bad weather in the area.
Seattle, Washington. On February 23, 2023, the Subcommittee
majority and minority staff conducted a site visit to the
Seattle Community Resource and Referral Center. The purpose of
this travel was to conduct oversight of VA's status of homeless
programs in Seattle and the King County area. VA Homeless
Program Office leadership, as well as the King County Public
Housing Authority personnel, were in attendance to discuss GPD,
and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development-VA
Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) issues in the Seattle area.
Seattle had specific problems with veterans making over the
maximum for housing vouchers even though they did not have
employment. Subcommittee staff also met with community
providers, toured several GPD facilities, and discussed funding
and hiring and issues with case managers and GPD programs.
Seattle, Washington. On March 14, 2023, the Subcommittees
on Economic Opportunity and Disability Assistance and Military
Affairs majority staff attended the Veteran Benefits
Administration (VBA) Senior leadership symposium in Seattle,
WA. The purpose of this travel was to attend the conference
with the VBA and Regional Office (RO) leadership to learn more
about the implementation of the PACT Act and recent changes to
the Veteran Readiness & Employment (VRE) program.
San Diego, California. On May 4, 2023, the Subcommittee
held a field hearing in Oceanside, California. During the
hearing, Subcommittee staff heard about homeless issues in the
San Diego area from the VA, Oceanside and San Diego County
Public Housing Authority, and local community providers. The
purpose of this trip was to gain an understanding of veteran
homelessness in an area where housing costs are high and there
are a large number of veterans. Additionally, Subcommittee
staff conducted an oversight visit of the Naval Special Warfare
Command (NSW) in Coronado, California to receive a briefing on
NSW's Transition Assistance Program (TAP), and their special
program called Readiness for SOF Transition (R4ST).
Subcommittee staff also met with NSW leadership to discuss the
changing environment in TAP and how TAP outcomes could be
improved.
Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Fort Liberty, North Carolina,
Norfolk Naval Station, Virginia. From August 7 to 9, 2023, the
Subcommittee majority staff went on StaffDel Flynn to oversee
TAP at Camp Lejeune, Fort Liberty, and Norfolk Naval Station.
Committee and personal office staff met with base commanders at
Camp Lejeune and Fort Liberty, as well as TAP counselors and
servicemembers about the current transition process across the
Armed Services. Majority staff were concerned about the Armed
Service's inability to provide the information and data
required by Congress. Majority staff also learned that while
TAP is highly encouraged to be in-person whenever possible,
many of the services were encouraging participation in TAP
online instead of in person. The staff also listened in on DOL
and DOD TAP courses and were able to attend a Skillbridge class
with Trane Technologies and BMW at Fort Liberty.
Georgetown University, Washington, DC. On October 12, 2023,
the Subcommittee majority staff conducted a site visit at
Georgetown University to meet with School Certifying Officials
about the status of Enrollment Manager and listen to concerns
both the school and veterans had about the system.
Buffalo, New York. On November 16, 2023, the Subcommittee
majority and minority staff conducted an oversight visit at the
Buffalo, NY Regional Office. Staff met with RO leadership to
discuss current issues in VA education, listen to their
concerns about the Digital G.I. Bill system, and oversee the
education claims process. Staff also met with on the ground VA
employees to listen to their concerns and see how the Education
Service can be improved.
Nashville, Tennessee. On January 5, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority and minority staff attended the Student Veterans of
America 2024 National Conference in Nashville, TN. Committee
staff participated in a conference legislative priorities panel
and a breakout session with Veterans Service Organizations
(VSO) and conference attendees. Committee staff highlighted
recent legislative proposals passed into law, discussed
priorities for the 118th Congress, such as TAP reform and
improvements to the VR&E program and listened to concerns from
G.I. Bill beneficiaries and School Certifying Officials.
Miami, Florida. On February 28, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority staff arrived to meet with the Miami VA Medical Center
Homeless Program Office, as well as visit two homeless
providers, Camillus House and Carrfour Supportive Housing.
Committee staff also visited the Sunrise, FL VR&E facility and
a Veteran Success on Campus Coordinator (VSOC) at Florida
International University (FIU). This two-day visit was focused
on gaining information on the homeless situation in Miami, FL,
and how the homeless providers are performing with a decreased
amount of Grant Per-Deim (GPD) post-COVID-19. The trip also
focused on learning ways we could improve and reduce the
administrative workload of VR&E counselors and VSOCs.
St. Paul, Minnesota. On April 17, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority and minority staff visited the St. Paul Regional
Office on Thursday, April 18, 2024; staff met with the regional
office VA employees in the morning for a briefing. Committee
staff met and discussed VR&E and Loan Guaranty Service issues
one-on-one with front-line staff.
Baltimore, Maryland, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. On
April 23, 2024, the Subcommittee majority and minority staff
met with the Maryland DOL-VETS State Level Office and visited
one of the Homeless Veteran Reintegration Program (HVRP) and
Jobs for Veteran State Grants (JVSG) combination sites.
Committee staff on Wednesday visited the DOL-VETS Regional
Office in Philadelphia and a Veterans Multi-Service Center.
This two-day visit focused on gaining information on how well
the JVSG and HVRP programs are working to serve and provide
better economic opportunities for veterans. The trip also
focused on learning ways DOL-VETS could improve the tracking of
the employment programs to ensure they are an effective use of
taxpayer dollars.
Las Vegas, Nevada. On August 12, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority staff attended conference sessions and a panel
discussion on their legislative priorities with the House and
Senate Veterans Affairs Committees. They also engaged with
several VSOs and SCOs. This three-day visit focused on
attending conference seminars on veteran education, employment,
and SAA and SCO issues they face on the field. Additionally,
this trip aimed to update SAAs on relevant legislative
initiatives during a legislative panel with Committee staff,
veteran service organizations (VSOs), and school certifying
officials (SCOs). Finally, Committee staff were able to meet
and discuss some of the SAA legislative priorities.
Des Moines, Iowa. On August 19, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority staff attended a veteran roundtable with Rep. Nunn in
Des Moines, Iowa on Tuesday, August 20, 2024. During the
roundtable, Committee staff was able to hear about veteran
issues local to Iowa and receive updates of how national
legislation has impacted veterans and their families in Rep.
Nunn's District.
La Crosse, Wisconsin. On August 23, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority staff met with School Certifying Officials at the
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse to find ways to reduce red
tape in the education benefit space.
New Orleans, Louisiana. On August 23, 2024, the
Subcommittee majority staff attended the American Legion
National Convention on Saturday, August 24, 2024. Staff
participated in 4-Corners legislative priorities meeting with
House minority and Senate minority staff to discuss legislative
and oversight priorities for the rest of the Congress.
Subcommittee staff heard during a Q&A session about the VBA
budget shortfall, and the need to do more oversight and hold VA
employees accountable.
Detroit, Michigan. On August 28, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority staff conducted an oversight visit with Rep. John
James at Selfridge Air National Guard Base during the morning
of Thursday, August 29, 2024. Staff received briefings on TAP,
mental health concerns, and education opportunities unique to
Michigan National Guard members. During the afternoon,
Subcommittee staff went to the University of Michigan to meet
with student veterans and School Certifying Officials about
their problems and solutions surrounding education benefits. On
Friday, August 30, 2024, Subcommittee staff visited the Detroit
Regional Office to hear about Veteran Readiness & Employment
and Homeless Veteran Outreach Coordinator efforts.
Additionally, Committee staff viewed the voter registration
site at the Detroit RO.
Kansas City, Missouri. On September 10, 2024, the
Subcommittee majority staff attended the Veteran Benefits
Administration (VBA) 2024 Fall Senior Leaders Symposium in
Kansas City, MO. The purpose of this travel was to attend the
conference with the VBA and Regional Office (RO) leadership to
learn more about upcoming changes to the Veteran Readiness &
Employment (VRE) program, Office of Equity Assurance Updates, a
union leadership roundtable, and RO best practices.
Syracuse, New York. On October 4, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority staff, along with Representative Willams and his
staff, visited the IVMF at the University of Syracuse. In the
afternoon, the Subcommittee also attended a veteran roundtable
with IVMF and other local stakeholders and constituents of
Representative Williams at his district office. Committee
staff, alongside Rep. Williams and his staff, learned about the
research initiatives the IVMF is currently working on,
including transition, mental health, and economic opportunities
for veterans. Syracuse's IVMF has been a top-ranked research
facility for veterans' issues nationwide.
Memphis, Tennessee. On October 4-6, 2024, the Subcommittee
minority staff conducted a visit to the Memphis VA Medical
Center, University of Memphis, Alpha Omega Veteran Services,
and LeMoyne-Owen College. The purpose of this visit was to
review security screening systems, GI Bill implementation, and
homeless services.
Kansas City, Missouri. On October 7-9, 2024, the
Subcommittee minority staff attended the National Association
of Veteran Program Administrators Conference. Staff presented
on a panel on veteran education issues before Congress and
attended breakout sessions with attendees.
Los Angeles, California. On October 21, 2024, Subcommittee
majority staff, along with Rep. Kim and her staff, attended a
veteran roundtable at the American Legion Post 132. On the
afternoon of the 21st, Subcommittee staff traveled to the
Villages at Cabrillo in Long Beach, where they toured the
facility and discussed current issues with US VETS. On the
morning of October 22nd, Committee staff toured the West LA
Campus, held a candid roundtable discussion with veterans
living on the campus, met with leadership, and discussed recent
updates to the West Los Angeles Master Plan, Grand and Per-Diem
(GPD), and HUD-VASH vouchers.
New York, New York. On October 27-29, 2024, the
Subcommittee minority staff conducted an oversight of the New
York VA Medical Center, and met with DOL Vets program
participants, New York City veteran housing staff, Student
Veterans of America chapters, and homelessness grant
recipients.
ACTIVITIES OF THE SUBCOMMITTEE ON HEALTH
MARIANNETTE MILLER MEEKS, Iowa, Chairwoman
JULIA BROWNLEY, California, Ranking Member
AMATA COLEMAN RADEWAGEN, MIKE LEVIN, California
American Samoa SHEILA CHERFILUS-McCORMICK,
JACK BERGMAN, Michigan Florida3
GREG MURPHY, North Carolina GREG LANDSMAN, Ohio
DERRICK VAN ORDEN, Wisconsin NIKKI BUDZINSKI, Illinois
MORGAN LUTTRELL, Texas
JEN KIGGANS, Virginia
------
James Whittaker, Majority Staff Director
Alexis MacDonald, Minority Staff Director
----------
3On June 3, 2024, Representative Chris Deluzio resigned his
position on the Subcommittee on Health, and on September 10, 2024,
Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick joined the Subcommittee.
LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITIES
Subcommittee Markup. On April 18, 2023, the Subcommittee
held a markup on H.R. 41, VA Same-Day Scheduling Act of 2023;
H.R. 562, Improving Veterans Access to Congressional Services
Act of 2023; H.R. 808, Veterans Patient Advocacy Act; H.R. 754,
Modernizing Veterans' Health Care Eligibility Act; H.R. 693,
Veterans Affairs Medical Center Absence and Notification
Timeline (VACANT) Act; H.R. 1089, VA Medical Center
Transparency; H.R. 366, Korean American VALOR Act; and H.R.
1256, Veterans Health Administration Leadership Transformation
Act. H.R. 754, H.R. 693, H.R. 1089, and H.R. 366 were ordered
reported by voice vote to Full Committee, without amendment.
H.R. 562, H.R. 808, H.R. 1256, and H.R. 41 were ordered
reported by voice vote to Full Committee, as amended.
Subcommittee Markup. On July 18, 2023, the Subcommittee
held a markup on H.R. 3520, Veteran Care Improvement Act of
2023; H.R. 3581, COPE Act; H.R. 1278, DRIVE Act; H.R. 1639, VA
Zero Suicide Demonstration Act of 2023; H.R. 1774, VA Emergency
Transportation Act; H.R. 1815, Expanding Veterans' Options for
Long Term Care Act; H.R. 2683, VA Flood Preparedness Act; H.R.
2768. PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program Act; and H.R.
2818, Autonomy for Disabled Veterans Act. H.R. 1278, H.R. 1639,
H.R. 2683, H.R. 2768, and H.R. 3581 were ordered reported by
voice vote to Full Committee, without amendment. H.R. 3520,
H.R. 1815, H.R. 1774, and H.R. 2818 were ordered reported by
voice vote to Full Committee, as amended.
The following groups submitted letters of support: American
Seniors Housing Association, Argentum, Leading Age, and
National Center for Assisted Living.
Subcommittee Markup. On April 16, 2024, the Subcommittee
held a markup on H.R. 3225, BUILD for Veterans Act of 2023;
H.R. 3303, Maternal Health for Veterans Act; H.R. 3644, ACT for
Veterans Act; H.R. 3649, Veterans National Traumatic Brain
Injury Treatment Act; H.R. 4424, Vietnam Veterans Liver Fluke
Cancer Study Act; H.R. 5530, VA Emergency Transportation Access
Act; H.R. 5794, Veterans Affairs Peer Review Neutrality Act of
2023; H.R. 6324, Fiscal Year 2024 Veterans Affairs Major
Medical Facility Authorization Act; H.R. 6373, Veterans STAND
Act; H.R. 7347, To amend title 38, United States Code, to
direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to report on whether
the Secretary will include certain psychedelic drugs in the
formulary of the Department of Veterans Affairs; and Lease
Resolution. H.R. 3644, was ordered reported by voice vote to
Full Committee, as amended. H.R. 3584, H.R. 4424, H.R. 6373,
H.R. 5530, H.R. 6324, H.R. 7347, H.R. 3225, H.R. 5794, H.R.
3649, H.R. 3303, and the Lease Resolutions were order reported
by voice vote to Full Committee, without amendment.
Subcommittee Markup. On September 18, 2024, the
Subcommittee held a markup on H.R. 9496, To amend title 38,
United States Code, to include a representative of the National
Association of State Veterans Homes on the Geriatrics and
Gerontology Advisory Committee of the Department of Veterans
Affairs; H.R. 9324, Protecting Veteran Access to Telemedicine
Services Act of 2024; H.R. 9478, Veterans Supporting
Prosthetics Opportunities and Recreational Therapy (SPORT) Act;
H.R. 9525, Service Dogs Assisting Veterans (SAVES) Act; H.R.
7504, Rural Veterans Transportation to Care Act; H.R. 9301, New
Mexico Rural Veteran Health Care Access Act; H.R. 9485,
Enhancing Faith-Based Support for Veterans Act of 2024; H.R.
9438, No Wrong Door for Veterans Act; H.R. 9146, Ensuring
Continuity in Veterans Health Act; and H.R. 8562, Parity for
Native Hawaiian Veterans Act. H.R. 9496, H.R. 9324, H.R. 9478,
H.R. 9525, H.R. 7504, H.R. 9301, H.R. 9485, H.R. 9416, and H.R.
8562 were ordered reported by voice vote to Full Committee,
without amendment. H.R. 9438 was ordered reported by voice vote
to Full Committee, as amended.
LEGISLATIVE HEARINGS
Subcommittee Legislative Hearing--``Legislative Hearing on H.R. 41, VA
Same-Day Scheduling Act of 2023; H.R. 562, Improving Veterans
Access to Congressional Services Act of 2023; H.R. 808,
Veterans Patient Advocacy Act; H.R. 754, Modernizing Veterans'
Health Care Eligibility Act; H.R. 693, Veterans Affairs Medical
Center Absence and Notification Timeline (VACANT) Act; H.R.
1089, VA Medical Center Facility Transparency Act; H.R. 366,
Korean American VALOR Act; H.R. 542, Elizabeth Dole Home Care
Act of 2023; and H.R. 1256, Veterans Health Administration
Leadership Transformation Act''
On March 29, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct a legislative hearing on the above bills. There were
three witness panels. The following witnesses testified on the
first panel: Representative Brian Mast (FL-21); Representative
Jim Baird (IN-4); Representative John Moolenaar (MI-2);
Representative Steve Womack (AR-3); and Representative Debbie
Lesko (AZ-8).
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Alfred Montoya, Deputy Assistant Under Secretary for Health for
Operations, Office of the Deputy Under Secretary for Health,
Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Dr. Scotte Hartronft, Executive Director, Office of
Geriatrics & Extended Care, Veterans Health Administration,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr. David Perry, Chief
Officer, Workforce Management, Veterans Health Administration,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the third panel: Mr.
Jon Retzer, Assistant National Legislative Director, Disabled
American Veterans; Ms. Tiffany Ellett, Deputy Director of
Health Policy, The American Legion; and Mr. Morgan Brown,
National Legislative Director, Paralyzed Veterans of America.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S., AARP, Student Veterans of
America, and Elizabeth Dole Foundation.
Subcommittee Legislative Hearing--``Legislative Hearing on H.R. 3520,
Veterans Care Improvement Act of 2023; H.R. 1182, Veterans
Serving Veterans Act of 2023; H.R. 1774, VA Emergency
Transportation Act; H.R. 2683, VA Flood Preparedness Act; H.R.
2768, PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program Act; H.R. 2818,
Autonomy for Disabled Veterans Act; H.R. 3581, Caregiver
Outreach and Program Enhancement (COPE) Act; H.R. 1278, DRIVE
Act; H.R. 1639, VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of
2023; and H.R. 1815, Expanding Veterans' Options for Long Term
Care Act''
On June 21, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct a legislative hearing on the above bills. There were
three witness panels. The following witnesses testified on the
first panel: Representative Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon (Puerto
Rico-At Large).
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Dr.
Erica Scavella, M.D., Assistant Under Secretary for Health
Clinical Services, Veterans Health Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Dr. Colleen Richardson, Psy.D.,
Executive Director, Caregiver Support Program, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Dr. Scotte
Hartronft, M.D., Executive Director, Office of Geriatrics and
Extended Care, Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs; and Dr. Mark Hausman, M.D., Executive
Director, Integrated Access, Office of Integrated Veteran Care,
Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the third panel: Mr.
Jon Retzer, Assistant National Legislative Director, Disabled
American Veterans; Ms. Tiffany Ellett, Director, Veterans
Affairs and Rehabilitation Division; and Mr. Cole Lyle,
Executive Director, Mission Roll Call, America's Warrior
Partnership.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
The Independence Fund, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S.,
Wounded Warrior Project, All Points North Community Care
Provider, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Representative Susie
Lee (Nevada), Argentum, and Representative Mark Alford
(Missouri).
Subcommittee Legislative Hearing--``Legislative Hearing on H.R. 3584,
Veterans CARE Act; H.R. 3644, Act for Veterans Act; H.R. 3649,
Veterans National Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act; H.R.
4424, Vietnam Veterans Liver Fluke Cancer Study Act; H.R. 5530,
VA Emergency Transportation Access Act; H.R. 6324, FY24 VA
Major Medical Facility Authorization Act; H.R. 6373, Veterans
STAND Act; H.R. 7347, To amend title 38, United States Code, to
direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to report on whether
the Secretary will include certain psychedelic drugs in the
formulary of the Department of Veterans Affairs; H.R. 3225,
BUILD for Veterans Act; H.R. 5794, VA Peer Review Neutrality
Act; H.R. 3303 Maternal Health for Veterans Act; and H.R. 5247,
Expedited Hiring for VA Trained Psychiatrists Act of 2023''
On March 21, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct a legislative hearing on the above bills. There were
three witness panels. The following witnesses testified on the
first panel: Chairman Mike Bost (IL-12); Representative Chris
Deluzio (PA-17); Representative Jack Bergman (MI-1);
Representative Greg Murphy (NC-3); Representative Derrick Van
Orden (WI-3); Representative Nick LaLota (NY-1); Representative
Debbie Dingell (MI-6); and Representative Lauren Underwood (IL-
14).
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Dr.
Ajit Pai, Executive Director, Office of Rehabilitation and
Prosthetic Services, Veterans Health Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Dr. Michael Brennan, Executive
Director, Office of Construction and Facilities Management,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Dr. Wendy Tenhula, Deputy
Chief Research and Development Officer, Office of Research and
Development, Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; and Mr. David Perry, Chief Officer, Workforce
Management and Consulting, Veterans Health Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the third panel: Mr.
Jon Retzer, Assistant National Legislative Director, Disabled
American Veterans; Mr. Roscoe Butler, Senior Health Policy
Advisor, Paralyzed Veterans of America; Ms. Brittany Elliot,
Veteran (USMC), Advocate; and Ms. Melissa Bryant, Chair, Board
of Directors, Minority Veterans of America.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Association of Air Medical Services, Rep. Matt Cartwright,
Jewish War Veterans, Military-Veterans Advocacy, Wounded
Warrior Project, American Ambulance Association/International
Association of Fire Chiefs, and TreatNOW.
Subcommittee Legislative Hearing--``Legislative Hearing on H.R. 9496,
to amend title 38, United States Code, to include a
representative of the National Association of State Veterans
Homes on the Geriatrics and Gerontology Advisory Committee of
the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA); H.R. 9427, Veterans'
Mental Health Access Act; H.R. 9463, Recruitment Improvement
for Service Excellence at VA Hospitals Act; H.R. 9485,
Enhancing Faith-Based Support for Veterans Act of 2024; H.R.
9438, No Wrong Door for Veterans Act; H.R. 9324, Protecting
Veteran Access to Telemedicine Services Act; H.R. 9426,
Safeguarding VA's Healthcare Workforce Act; H.R. 9478, The
Veterans Supporting Prosthetics Opportunities and Recreational
Therapy Act; H.R. 9525, Service Dogs Assisting Veterans Act;
H.R. 9146, Ensuring Continuity in Veterans Health Act; H.R.
7504, Rural Veterans Transportation to Care Act; H.R. 6330,
Veterans Sentinel Act; H.R. 8562, Parity for Native Hawaiian
Veterans Act; H.R. 6291, Have You Served Act; H.R. 9301, New
Mexico Rural Veteran Health Care Access Act; DRAFT, Conflict of
Interest Waiver for VA Researchers''
On September 11, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct a legislative hearing on the above bills. There were
three witness panels for this hearing.
The following witnesses testified on the first panel:
Representative Morgan Luttrell (TX-8); Representative Gabe
Vasquez (NM-2); Representative Scott Franklin (FL-18);
Representative Marie Gluesenkamp-Perez (WA-3); Representative
Keith Self (TX-3); Representative Jill Tokuda (HI-2);
Representative Steve Womack (AR-3)
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Dr.
Carolyn Clancy, Assistant Undersecretary for Health, Discovery,
Education, and Affiliate Networks, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Dr.
Matthew Miller, Executive Director, Office of Suicide
Prevention, Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Dr. Ajit Pai, Executive Director, Office of
Rehabilitation and Prosthetic Services, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr.
Ryan Heiman, Acting Director, Member Services, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Brian Dempsey, Director of Government Relations, Wounded
Warrior Project; Ms. Missy Meyer, Director of Community
Integration, America's Warrior Partnership; Mr. Clark
Pennington, Chief Operating Officer, The Independence Fund; and
Mr. Jon Retzer, Deputy National Legislative Director, Disabled
American Veterans.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Joint Statement- American Psychological Association,
Association of VA Psychologist Leaders, Association of VA
Social Workers, National Association of Veterans Affairs
Physicians and Dentists, Nurses Organization of Veterans
Affairs, and Veterans Healthcare Policy Institute; American
Federation of Government Employees, AFL-CIO, National
Association of State Veterans Homes, U.S. Office of Government
Ethics, and Rep. Jason Crow.
Subcommittee Legislative Hearing--``Legislative Hearing on H.R. 214,
Veterans' True Choice Act of 2023; H.R. 3176 Veterans Health
Care Freedom Act; H.R. 5287, Veterans Access to Direct Primary
Care Act; H.R. 8481, Emergency Community Care Notification Time
Adjustment Act of 2024; H.R. 10012, to amend title 38, United
States Code, to include eyeglass lens fittings in the category
of medical services authorized to be furnished to veterans
under the Veterans Community Care Program, and for other
purposes; H.R. 9924, What Works for Preventing Veteran Suicide
Act; H.R. 8347, Improving Menopause Care for Veterans Act; H.R.
6333, Veterans Emergency Care Reimbursement Act; Discussion
Draft--Supporting Medical Students and VA Workforce Act; H.R.
10267, Complete the Mission Act of 2024.''
On December 17, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct a legislative hearing on the above bills. There were
three witness panels for this hearing. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Chairman Mike Bost (Illinois);
Representative Celeste Maloy (Utah); Representative Andy Biggs
(Arizona); Representative Brian Mast (Florida); Representative
Chip Roy (Texas); Representative Greg Steube (Florida);
Representative Julia Brownley (California); Ranking Member Mark
Takano (California); and Representative Greg Landsman (Ohio).
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Ms.
Hillary Peabody, Acting Assistant Under Secretary for Health
for Integrated Veteran Care, Veterans Health Administration,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Dr. Erica Scavella,
Assistant Under Secretary for Health for Clinical Services,
Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Cole Lyle, Director of Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation, The
American Legion; Mr. Darin Selnick, Senior Veterans Affairs
Advisor; Mr. Patrick Murray, Director, National Legislative
Service, Veterans of Foreign Wars; and Ms. Mary-Jean ``MJ''
Burke, First Executive Vice President, National Veterans
Affairs Council, American Federation of Government Employees.
OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Combatting a Crisis: Providing
Veterans Access to Life-saving Substance Abuse Disorder
Treatment''
On April 18, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine the U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs' provision of substance use disorder (SUD)
treatment both through in-house Mental Health Residential
Rehabilitation Treatment Programs (MHRRTPs) and through
community care referrals. The Subcommittee sought to look at
how VA evaluates veterans for treatment and whether that
treatment meets the often-urgent need for access.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Dr. Tamara Campbell, MD,
Executive Director, Office of Mental Health and Suicide
Prevention, Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Dr. Sachin Yende, MD, Chief Medical Officer,
Office of Integrated Veteran Care, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Dr.
Julie Kroviak, MD, Principal Deputy Assistant Inspector
General, Healthcare Inspections, Office of the Inspector
General, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Daniel Elkins, Chief of Staff, The Independence Fund; Mrs. Jen
Silva, Chief Program Officer, Wounded Warrior Project; Mr.
Thoams B. Sauer, Chief Executive Officer & Owner, Miramar
Health; and Mr. Brendan Dowling, Veteran Outreach, Mental
Health.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Cohen Veterans Network
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Care Coordination: Assessing Veteran
Needs and Improving Outcomes''
On June 13, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine the U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs' (VA's) management of its various care
coordination programs. Specifically, the Subcommittee sought to
look at how the VA assesses veterans' needs and supports care
transitions both within the VA and with community providers or
emergency services. The hearing also explored the various roles
and responsibilities of care coordinators, patient advocates,
and case managers and how their functions may need to be
adjusted to serve diverse populations such as rural or
geriatric veterans.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Dr. M. Christopher Saslo, Ph.D.,
Assistant Under Secretary for Health/Chief Nursing Officer,
Office of Patient Care Services, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Dr. Sachin
Yende, MD, Chief Medical Officer, Office of Integrated Veteran
Care, Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Dr. Jennifer Strawn, Ph.D., Deputy Chief
Nursing Officer/Executive Director, Office of Nursing Service,
Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Ms. Jill Debord, Executive Director, Office of Care
Management and Social Work Services, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Dr.
Julie Kroviak, MD, Principal Deputy Assistant Inspector
General, Healthcare Inspections, Office of the Inspector
General, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Ms.
Andrea Sawyer, Advocacy Director, Quality of Life Foundation;
Mr. Matt Brady, Director, Complex Case Coordination Program,
Wounded Warrior Project; and Mr. Roscoe Butler, Senior Health
Policy Advisor, Paralyzed Veterans of America.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``VA's Federal Supremacy Initiative:
Putting Veterans First''
On September 19, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs' (VA's) multi-year process to standardize
their clinical scope of practice standards for over 50 health
care specialties. The Subcommittee sought to look at how VA
assesses licensure requirements and jurisdiction of care and
ensure that all stakeholder concerns are being heard. The
Subcommittee also examined potential ways to improve VA's
process and outcomes to ensure safe, quality care is provided
to our nation's veterans.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Dr. Jesse Ehrenfeld, MD,
President, American Medical Association; Dr. Paul Barney, OD,
American Optometric Association; Ms. Janet Setnor, MSN, CRNA,
Col (Ret.) USAFR, NC, President Elect, American Association of
Nurse Anesthesiology; Dr. Stephen D. McLeod, MD, Chief
Executive Officer, American Academy of Ophthalmology; and Dr.
Ron Harter, MD, FASA, President-Elect, American Society of
Anesthesiologists.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Dr.
Erica Scavella, MD, FACP, FACHE, Assistant Under Secretary for
Health Clinical Services, Chief Medical Officer, Veterans
Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Dr.
M. Christopher Saslo, DNS, ARNP- BC, FAANP, Assistant Under
Secretary for Health for Patient Care Services, Chief Nursing
Officer, Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; and Mr. Ethan Kalett, Executive Director,
Office of Regulations, Appeals & Policy, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
American Academy of Family Physicians, American Nurses
Association, American Society of Retina Specialists, The
American Legion, Nursing Community Coalition, National
Conference of State Legislatures, American Association of Nurse
Practitioners, American Pharmacists Association, Blinded
Veterans Association, Fleet Reserve Association, Jewish War
Veterans of the USA, and American Association of Nurse
Anesthesiology.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Emerging Therapies: Breakthroughs in
the Battle Against Suicide?''
On November 14, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the ongoing research
and clinical trials involving psychedelic-assisted therapy for
treating PTSD, other mental conditions, and substance use
disorder. The Subcommittee sought to hear from U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs (VA) and different stakeholders about the
details and results of clinical trials so far, next steps, and
how VA is preparing for potential FDA approval of the assisted
therapy. The Subcommittee examined the scaling of treatments to
veterans nationwide, heard from the researchers in the
forefront of this field, and discussed potential dangers or
barriers that lay ahead.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Dr. Carolyn Clancy, MD, Assistant
Under Secretary for Health, Office of Discovery, Education, and
Affiliate Networks, Veterans Health Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Dr. Ilse Wiechers, MD, Deputy
Executive Director, Office of Mental Health and Suicide
Prevention, Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; and Dr. Rachel Yehuda, Ph.D., Patient Care
Center Director, Bronx Veterans Affairs Medical Center,
Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel:
Sergeant Jonathan Lubecky, USA (Ret.), clinical trial
participant; Dr. Frederick Barrett, Ph.D., Associate Professor
of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins Center for
Psychedelic and Consciousness Research; Mr. Mike Mullette,
Chief Operating Officer, Multidisciplinary Association for
Psychedelic Studies- Public Benefit Corporation (MAPS PBC); Dr.
Rajeev Ramchand, Ph.D., Co-Director, RAND Epstein Family
Veterans Policy Research Institute; Mr. Brett Waters, Co-
Founder, Executive Director, Reason for Hope, Co-Founder,
Veteran Mental Health Leadership Coalition; and Ms. Juliana
Mercer, USMC (Ret.), Director, Veteran Advocacy and Public
Policy, Health Breakthrough.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
American Psychedelic Practitioners Association.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``SSG Fox Suicide Prevention Grants:
Saving Veterans' Lives Through Community Connection''
On December 12, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs' (VA) Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox
Suicide Prevention Grant Program, which assists veterans and
their families by providing veteran-based outreach, veteran
suicide prevention services, connections to VA, and additional
community resources that provide more encompassing mental
health care access. The Subcommittee sought to evaluate the
application process to ensure these grants are accessible to
the community organizations best suited to help veterans. The
Subcommittee heard from grantees about the strengths and
shortcomings of the program and discussed how Congress and VA
can enhance and expand the grant program beyond the initial
pilot phase to reach even more veterans.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Dr. Erica Scavella, MD, Assistant Under Secretary
for Health for Clinical Services, Veterans Health
Administration; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Dr. Todd
Burnett, PsyD, Senior Consultant for Operations, Suicide
Prevention Program, Veterans Health Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Missy Myers, Director of
Community Integration, America's Warrior Partnership; Mr. Ken
Falke, Chairman/Founder, Boulder Crest Foundation; Ms. Joyce
King, Project Director, SSG Fox Veterans Suicide Prevention
Program, Sheppard Pratt.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
D'Aniello Institute for Veterans & Military Families, Swords to
Plowshares, and Wounded Warrior Project.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Artificial Intelligence at VA:
Exploring its Current State and Future Possibilities''
On February 15, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the Department of
Veterans Affairs' (VA) artificial intelligence (AI) use-case
pipeline, the policy guidelines in place for these initiatives,
the alignment of VA policies on AI with executive orders
governing AI, and the department's ability to rapidly implement
and scale AI solutions and technologies.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Mr. Charles Worthington, Chief
Technology Officer/Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer,
Office of Information and Technology, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Dr. Gil Alterovitz, Ph.D., Director, VA
National Artificial Intelligence Institute, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Dr.
Carolyn Clancy, M.D., Assistant Under Secretary for Health,
Office of Discovery, Education, and Affiliate Networks,
Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel:
Prashant Natarajan, Author, Topics:
Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning; Gary Velasquez,
Chief Executive Officer, Cogitativo; Charles Rockefeller, Co-
Founder and Head of Partnerships, CuraPatient; and Dr. David
Newman-Toker, M.D., Ph.D., Director, Armstrong Institute Center
for Diagnostic Excellence, Johns Hopkins University School of
Medicine.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc., Johnson & Johnson, UCSF
Weill Institute for Neurosciences, and SHRM.
Subcommittee Oversight Field Hearing--``Iowa: A Leader in Veteran
Healthcare Innovation''
On May 13, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session in
Iowa City, Iowa to conduct an oversight field hearing to
examine the modern healthcare and services that the Department
of Veterans Affairs (VA) Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
performs across the state of Iowa. The subcommittee discussed
the partnerships that VA has forged with local universities,
and community-based healthcare providers to assess the unique
ways that VHA, in partnership with Iowa providers, serves as an
innovator in the healthcare industry for veterans, active-duty
servicemembers, and their families. Further, the subcommittee
discussed the progress that the University of Iowa, a VA
partner, has achieved regarding Artificial Intelligence (AI) in
the ophthalmology industry.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Dr. Carolyn Clancy, M.D.,
Assistant Under Secretary for Health, Office of Discovery,
Education and Affiliate Networks, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Dr.
Victoria Sharp, M.D., Deputy Chief of Staff, Iowa City VA
Healthcare System, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Dr.
Mahsaw Mansoor, M.D., Resident, University of Iowa, Department
of Ophthalmology; and Mr. Brandon Blankenship, Chief Technology
Officer, Pro Circular.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
American Optometric Association.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``The Continuity of Care: Assessing the
Structure of VA's Healthcare Network''
On June 26, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine the oversight,
stability, and evolution of the Department of Veterans Affairs
(VA) Veterans Integrated Service Networks (VISNs). The
Subcommittee aimed to discuss the administrative structures and
practices of VISNs, Veteran Health Administration (VHA)
oversight of VISN management and performance, and patient care
outcomes to determine where improvements in access to care need
to be made.
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: Mr. Alfred ``Al'' Montoya, Deputy
Assistant Under Secretary for Health Operations, Veterans
Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr.
Ryan Lilly, MPA, Director of the Veterans Integrated Service
Network, New England Healthcare System (VISN 1), Veterans
Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Dr.
Julie Kroviak, MD, Principal Deputy Assistant Inspector General
for Healthcare Inspections, Office of the Inspector General,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and The Honorable Kenneth
W. Kizer, MD, MPH, Distinguished Professor Emeritus, University
of California Davis School of Medicine.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Alzheimer's Association and U.S. Government Accountability
Office.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Dial 988 +1: Examining the Operations
of the Veterans Crisis Line''
On September 18, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the Department of
Veterans Affairs' (VA) oversight and operations of the Veterans
Crisis Line. The Subcommittee explored if VA is ensuring that
the Veterans Crisis Line is operating at its full capacity for
veterans who use this crucial resource in times of need.
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: Dr. Matthew Miller, Executive Director,
Office of Suicide Prevention, Veterans Health Administration,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Dr. Christopher Watson,
Executive Director, Veterans Crisis Line, Office of Suicide
Prevention, Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Mr. Brad Mills, Deputy Director, Unified
Communications Operations, Connectivity & Collaboration
Services, Office of Information & Technology, U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs; and Dr. Julie Kroviak, MD, Principal
Deputy Assistant Inspector General for Healthcare Inspections,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of the Inspector
General.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Disabled American
Veterans, and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Life After Limb Loss: Examining VA
Amputee Prosthetics Care''
On November 20, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the Department of
Veterans Affairs' (VA) ability to care for veterans in need of
amputee prosthetics who suffered amputation during or after
their military service. The Subcommittee also examined recent
alleged failures in the prosthetics departments and examine
whether direct VA amputee care and care in the community are
ensuring veteran amputees are all receiving quality care from
VA.
There were two witness panels for this hearing. The
following witnesses testified on the first panel: Dr.
Christopher Saslo, DNS, APRN-BC, FAANP, Assistant Under
Secretary for Patient Care Services/Chief Nursing Officer,
Veterans Health Administration, Dr. Joel Scholten, Executive
Director, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Veterans Health
Administration; Dr. Ajit Pai, Executive Director, Office of
Rehabilitation and Prosthetic Services, Veterans Health
Administration, and Mr. J. Drew Craig, Design Chief, Enterprise
Measurement and Design Directorate, Veterans Experience Office,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Jose Ramos, Vice President of Government and Community
Relations, Wounded Warrior Project; Ms. Ashlie White, Chief
Strategy and Programs Officer, Amputee Coalition; and Mr. Matt
Brown, U.S. Army Veteran, The Independence Fund.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
U.S. Government Accountability Office, The American Legion, and
Mr. Scott Restivo.
ROUNDTABLES
Subcommittee Roundtable--``Federal Supremacy''
On April 26, 2023, the Subcommittee conducted a roundtable
to educate Members about the U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs' (VA) Federal Supremacy Project. The Subcommittee heard
from different stakeholders about their professional
perspectives on the process behind the development of the
national standards and what it means for VA patient care.
In attendance were: Mr. Ethan Kalett, Senior Advisor for
Regulations and Policy, Veterans Health Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Sallie Massarsky, Director
of Regulations and Policy, Veterans Health Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Dr. Gerald E. Harmon, M.D.,
Board Chair and Former President, American Medical Association;
Colonel Janet L. Setnor, CRNA, Vice President, American
Association of Nurse Anesthesiology; Dr. Richard Castillo,
O.D., D.O., Co-Chair, Contemporary Practice Task Force,
American Optometric Association; Dr. Suzanne S. Blaylock, M.D.,
Delegate, American Society of Anesthesiologists; Mr. W. Take
Heuer, Vice President of Federal Advocacy, American Academy of
PAs; and Dr. Mary Gilbert Lawrence, M.D., M.P.H., Medical
Director for Governmental Affairs, Minnesota Academy of
Ophthalmology.
Subcommittee Roundtable--``Emerging Therapies''
On June 5, 2023, the Subcommittee conducted a roundtable on
``Emerging Therapies'' regarding psychedelic-assisted therapy
clinical trials that are ongoing at universities and VA medical
centers across the country.
In attendance were: Dr. Carolyn M. Clancy, M.D., Assistant
Under Secretary for Health, Office of Discovery, Education and
Affiliate Networks, Veterans Health Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Dr. Christopher Bever, M.D.,
Director, Biomedical Laboratory Research and Development, VA
Maryland Health Care System, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Dr. Miriam Smyth, Ph.D., Acting Director, Clinical
Science Research, & Development, Office of Research &
Development, Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Dr. Stephen Ross, M.D., Associate Director,
Psychedelic Medicine Research Training Program, New York
University Langone Health Center for Psychedelic Medicine; Dr.
Kelley O'Donnell, M.D., Ph.D., Director Clinical Training,
Center for Psychedelic Medicine, New York University Langone
Health Center for Psychedelic Medicine; Dr. Frederick Barrett,
Ph.D., Associate Professor for Psychiatry and Behavior
Sciences, Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic and
Consciousness Research; Dr. Sandeep Nayak, M.D., Assistant
Professor for Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins
Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research; Mr. Mike
Mullette, Chief Operating Officer, Multidisciplinary Associate
for Psychedelic Studies-Public Benefit Corporation (MAPS-PBC);
Honorable Mimi Walters, Chairwoman, Apollo Pact; Ms. Juliana
Mercer, USMC, Director, Veteran Advocacy and Public Policy,
Healing Breakthrough; and Mr. Jonathan M. Lubecky, USA (Ret.),
Veteran clinical trial participant.
Subcommittee Roundtable--``Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide
Prevention Grant Program (Fox Grants)''
On September 6, 2023, the Subcommittee conducted a
roundtable to discuss the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox
Suicide Prevention Grant Program. The purpose of the roundtable
was to bring together different stakeholders to examine the Fox
Grants strengths and shortcomings and to evaluate the
application process to ensure a better understanding of how to
make these grants effective for veterans and their families.
In attendance were: Dr. Todd Burnett, Senior Consultant,
Operations, Suicide Prevention Program, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Sandra
Foley, Director, Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon (SSG) Fox Suicide
Prevention Grants Program (SPGP), Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Missy
Meyer, Director of Community Integration, America's Warrior
Partnership; Mr. Josh Goldberg, Chief Executive Officer,
Boulder Crest Foundation; Ms. Sarah Norman, Chief of Community
Development, Sheppard Pratt Health System; Ms. Joyce King,
Program Director, SSG Fox SPGP, Sheppard Pratt Health System;
and Mr. Jared Sussman, Analyst in Health Policy, Congressional
Research Service.
SITE VISITS
Orlando, Florida. On February 15-17, 2023, the Subcommittee
majority and minority staff conducted a site visit to the
Orlando VA Medical Center and surrounding facilities. Staff met
with medical center leadership and visited multiple clinics and
the community living center. While at the medical center, staff
met with AFGE employees and discussed work conditions in the
facility. Oversight also included a visit to the Orlando vet
center and satellite office campus for the Office of Community
Care to monitor the Well Hive self-scheduling pilot program.
New York, New York. On April 4-6, 2023, the Subcommittee
majority staff conducted a site visit to the Bronx and
Manhattan VA Medical Centers, as well as New York University's
Langone Hospital. Staff met with VA medical center leadership
and visited select clinics within the facilities, including the
psychedelic research centers and prosthetics centers. Staff
also met with New York University's Langone Center for
Psychedelic Medicine, toured the facility, and spoke with their
leading researchers. Minority staff joined the NYU portion via
teleconference.
Laredo, Texas. On April 20-22, 2023 the Subcommittee
majority and communications staff travelled with Chairman Bost
to conduct an oversight visit focused on veteran support
operations at or near the US southern border. The Chairman
visited the Laredo Vet Center and travelled to Eagle Pass to
meet with Border Patrol Agents, view operations, and discuss
the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Del Rio Sector
Partnership and VA outreach.
Baltimore, Maryland. On May 5, 2023, the Subcommittee
majority staff conducted a visit to Johns Hopkins University
Psychedelic and Consciousness Research Center to gather
information on clinical trials involving psychedelics with
patients who have PTSD and substance abuse disorder. We met
with leading researchers in the field and toured their
facility.
Phoenix, Arizona. On June 14, 2023, majority and minority
staff participated in a Veterans Health Administration (VHA)
Senior Leader Summit in Phoenix, AZ. Together with majority and
minority staff from the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs,
they appeared on a panel to discuss their respective
legislative and oversight priorities for the 118th Congress,
and responded to questions from VHA senior executives.
Loma Linda, California. On June 15, 2023, the Subcommittee
majority staff conducted a site visit to Loma Linda VA Medical
Center with majority staff from the Oversight and
Investigations Subcommittee. Staff toured the facility and
discussed geriatric care, suicide prevention, policing, and
community care. Staff conducted whistleblower interviews
regarding workplace rights..
Phoenix, Payson, Flagstaff, and Prescott, Arizona. On
August 14-18, 2023, the Subcommittee majority staff led
oversight visits, along with other Committee majority staff, to
various locations within the Phoenix VA Health Care System
(PVAHCS) and the Northern Arizona VA Health Care System
(NAVAHCS) catchment areas. In additional to meeting with
leadership at both the Phoenix and Prescott VAMCs, oversight
focused on emergency care, women's health, substance abuse and
mental health inpatient rehabilitation (MH RRTP), and community
care operations both at the medical centers and their
affiliated CBOCs. Committee staff also participated in veteran
forums in Payson, Flagstaff and at the Navajo Nation. Finally,
staff visited with the leadership team from US Vets and visited
the workforce area, living areas, and dining facility.
Winchester, Virginia. On August 29, 2023, the Subcommittee
majority staff conducted a site visit to the Winchester,
Virginia, VA clinic. Staff toured the facility and spoke with
leadership about rural health, telehealth, and hiring and
retention issues.
Tomah, Wisconsin. On October 11, 2023, the Subcommittee
majority staff led an oversight visit along with majority staff
from the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee to the Tomah
VA Medical Center. After participating in various leadership
huddles, staff focused on discussions with clinicians located
in community care, urgent care, the mental health residential
rehabilitation unit (MH RRTP), the proposed women's health
clinic, and the whole health clinic. The visit concluded with a
review of various quality metric evaluations.
Las Vegas, Nevada. On October 26, 2023, the Subcommittee
majority and Senate minority staff conducted a site visit to
North Las Vegas VA Medical Center. Staff met with VA clinicians
within the inpatient ward, emergency department, prosthetics,
and the VA Southern Nevada Fisher House. Staff also toured the
Northeast Primary Care Clinic. Majority and minority staff,
along with majority and minority staff from the Senate
Veterans' Affairs Committee, participated in a Nurses
Organization of VA (NOVA) conference panel on October 27, 2023.
They presented their respective legislative and oversight
priorities for the 118th Congress and responded to questions
from VA nurses in attendance at the conference.
Las Vegas, NV. On November 26, 2023, House majority and
Senate minority staff conducted a site visit to North Las Vegas
VA Medical Center. Staff met with VA clinicians within the
inpatient ward, emergency department, and prosthetics
departments, and visited the VA Southern Nevada Fisher House.
Staff also toured the Northeast Primary Care Clinic. Staff
participated in a Nurses Organization of VA (NOVA) conference
panel on November 27, 2023.
Lyons, NJ; East Orange, NJ. Between February 26 to 27,
2024, the Subcommittee majority staff as well as local district
staff visited the Lyons VA Medical Center and East Orange VA
Medical Center to tour the facilities and discuss ongoing
challenges related to infrastructure, staffing, and access to
care. The visit also included an in-depth review of specialized
programs, such as women's health initiatives, mental health
services, and the PACT Act outreach efforts, along with an
examination of the facilities' partnerships with community
providers and Rutgers University.
Tucson, AZ. On March 13 to 15, 2024, majority staff from
the Health and Economic Opportunity Subcommittees travelled to
Tucson, Arizona, to meet with staff and researchers at the
University of Arizona, wo are also affiliated with the Tucson
VA Medical Center, regarding their research on mental health
and vaccinations and preventative health measures. Staff also
learned about the University's education and transition
services.
West Palm Beach, Florida. On March 25 to 26, 2024, the
Subcommittee majority staff as well as local Congressional
staff visited the West Palm Beach VA Medical Center to tour the
facility and meet with leadership regarding Congressional
office space issues faced by members of Congress. Additionally,
staff investigated a recent veteran homicide at a mental health
unit on campus.
Iowa City, IA; La Crosse and Tomah, WI; Rochester and
Minneapolis, MN. Between August 11 and 16, 2024 majority staff
from the Health, Technology Modernization, and Disability
Assistance and Memorial Affairs Subcommittees travelled to Iowa
City, IA; La Crosse and Tomah, WI; and Rochester and
Minneapolis, MN to conduct oversight of VA Medical Centers,
Community Based Outpatient Clincs, Vet Centers, and other
veterans support initiatives. Staff met with leadership and
staff at all these facilities to conduct oversight of their
operations. Of note, Staff were able to discuss the findings of
an Administrative Investigations Board Report with Rep. Van
Orden and the Executive Leadership Team regarding an incident
at the Tomah facility.
Detroit, Michigan. On September 4, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority staff visited the John D. Dingell Department of
Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) in Detroit, Michigan
with Representative John James and members of his staff to
conduct oversight over the facility's implementation of the
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA's) voter registration
program as required by Executive Order (EO) 14019, discuss the
facility's progress in addressing the recommendations from a
July 2023 VA Office of Inspector General (OIG) report about
senior leadership failures regarding care quality, learn about
the facility's plans to open a new Community Based Outpatient
Clinics (CBOCs) in Rep. James' district, and discuss the
facility's preparedness for the potential implementation of the
Oracle Cerner Electronic Health Record (EHR).
Virginia Beach, Virginia. On October 10 to 11, 2024, the
Subcommittee majority and minority staff visited Virginia Beach
to participate in the Nurses Organization of Veterans Affairs
(NOVA) conference's panel titled ``118th Congress VA
Legislation/Policy Wrap Up.'' Additionally, majority staff
briefly visited a state veterans' home in Virginia Beach, which
was recently approved for VA funding, to discuss its mission
and how VA could be most helpful moving forward.
Miami, Florida. On October 28, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority staff went on an oversight visit to the Key largo VA
Clinic and the Homestead VA Clinic and met with facility
leadership. During the visit, the leadership team provided
staff with details on current challenges with aging facilities
in the Miami region. Staff toured the facilities and discussed
the challenges of leasing a new Homestead clinic location.
After the visits, staff engaged in a veteran's roundtable with
Rep. Gimenez and his constituents.
ACTIVITIES OF THE SUBCOMMITTEE ON
OVERSIGHT AND INVESTIGATIONS
JEN KIGGANS, Virginia, Chairman
FRANK MRVAN, Indiana, Ranking Member
AMATA COLEMAN RADEWAGEN, CHRIS PAPPAS, New Hampshire
American Samoa TIMOTHY KENNEDY, New York\4\
JACK BERGMAN, Michigan
MATT ROSENDALE, Montana
------
Thomas Finnigan III, Majority Staff Director
Ally Cimino, Minority Staff Director
----------
\4\On September 10, 2024, Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick
resigned her position on the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations, and Representative Timothy Kennedy joined the
Subcommittee.
LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITIES
Subcommittee Markup. On July 19, 2023, the Subcommittee
held a markup on H.R. 592, Department of Veterans Affairs
Electronic Health Record Modernization Improvement Act; H.R.
608, To Terminate the Electronic Health Record Modernization
Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs; H.R. 1659,
Department of Veterans Affairs IT Modernization Improvement
Act; H.R. 2499, VA Supply Chain Management System Authorization
Act; H.R. 4278, Restore Department of Veterans Affairs
Accountability Act; H.R. 196, Expediting Temporary Ratings for
Veterans Act; H.R. 4461, Modernizing Department of Veteran
Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act; H.R. 3504, VA
Medical Center Security Report Act; H.R. 2733, Department of
Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General Training Act; and
H.R. 4225, VA Acquisition Review Board Act. H.R. 196, H.R.
4461, H.R. 1659, H.R. 608, H.R. 592, H.R. 4225, H.R. 4278, and
H.R. 2733 were ordered reported by voice vote to Full
Committee, without amendment. H.R. 3504 and H.R. 2499 were
ordered reported by voice vote, as amended.
Subcommittee Markup. On April 17, 2024, the Subcommittee
held a markup on H.R. 6452, Veterans Scam and Fraud Evasion Act
of 2023; H.R. 6531 TRAIN VA Employees Act; H.R. 6538, VA
Correct Compensation Act of 2023; H.R. 6874, VA WEB Act; H.R.
6947, Veterans Affairs Centennial and Heritage Act of 2024;
H.R. 7342, Veterans Accessibility Advisory Committee Act of
2024; H.R. 7713, VA Political Performance Disclosure Act; and
H.R. 7734, To Amend Title 38, United States Code, to Require a
Notation in the Personnel Record File of Certain Employees of
the Department of Veterans Affairs Who Resign from Government
Employment Under Certain Circumstances. H.R. 6538, H.R. 6874,
H.R. 7342, H.R. 7713, H.R. 6531, and H.R. 6947 were ordered
reported by voice vote to Full Committee, without amendment.
H.R. 6452 and H.R. 7734, were ordered reported by voice vote to
Full Committee, as amended.
LEGISLATIVE HEARINGS
Subcommittee Legislative Hearing--``Legislative Hearing on H.R. 592,
Department of Veterans Affairs Electronic Health Record
Modernization Improvement Act; H.R. 608, To Terminate the
Electronic Health Record Modernization Program of the
Department of Veterans Affairs; H.R. 1658, Manage VA Act; H.R.
1659, Department of Veterans Affairs IT Modernization
Improvement Act; and H.R. 2499, VA Supply Chain Management
System Authorization Act''
On April 19, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct a legislative hearing on the above bills. There was one
witness panel. The following witnesses testified: Mr. Phillip
Christy, Deputy Executive Director, Office of Acquisition,
Logistics, and Construction, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Ms. Catherine Cravens, Chief of Staff, Office of
Information Technology, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs;
Dr. Leslie Sofocleous, Executive Director, Program Management
Office, Electronic Health Record Modernization, Integration
Office, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Shana Love-
Holmon, Acting Assistant Secretary, Office of Enterprise
Integration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Ms.
Shelby Oakley, Director, Contracting and National Security
Acquisitions, Government Accountability Office.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Fleet Reserve Association and The American Legion.
Subcommittee Legislative Hearing--``Legislative Hearing on H.R. 4278,
Restore Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability Act; H.R.
196, Expediting Temporary Ratings for Veterans Act; H.R. 4461,
Modernizing Department of Veteran Affairs Disability Benefit
Questionnaires Act; H.R. 3504, VA Medical Center Security
Report Act; H.R. 2733, Department of Veterans Affairs Office of
Inspector General Training Act; and H.R. 4225, VA Acquisition
Review Board Act''
On July 12, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct a legislative hearing on the above bills. There were
two witness panels. The following witnesses testified on the
first panel: Mr. Lewis Ratchford, Chief Security Officer,
Office of Human Resources and Administration/Operations,
Security, and Preparedness, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Mr. Rondy Waye, Executive Director, Human Capital
Programs, Office of Human Resources and Administration/
Operations, Security, and Preparedness, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Mr. Ray Tellez, Acting Deputy Under Secretary
for Automated Benefits Delivery, Veterans Benefits
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Angela
Billups, Ph.D., Executive Director, Office of Acquisitions and
Logistics, Office of Acquisition, Logistics, and Construction,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr. David Case, Deputy
Inspector General, Office of Inspector General, U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Joshua Hastings, Veterans Benefits Policy Analyst, The American
Legion; Mr. Patrick Murray, Director, National Legislative
Service, Veterans of Foreign Wars; Mr. Clint Romesha, SSG
(ret.), Board of Director, Emeritus, America's Warrior
Partnership; and Ms. Terry Gerton, President and Chief
Executive Officer, National Academy of Public Administration.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
American Federation of Government Employees, AFL-CIO, Concerned
Veterans of America, National Federation of Federal Employees,
Partnership for Public Service, Senior Executives Association,
and United Nurses Association of California/Union of Health
Care Professionals.
Subcommittee Legislative Hearing--``Legislative Hearing on H.R. 6452,
Veterans Scam and Fraud Evasion Act; H.R. 6531, TRAIN VA
Employees Act; H.R. 6538, VA Correct Compensation Act; H.R.
6874, VA WEB Act; H.R. 6947, Veterans Affairs Centennial and
Heritage Act; H.R. 7342, Veterans Accessibility Advisory
Committee Act; H.R. 7765, VA Security Screening Pilot Program
Act; H.R. 7734, Required Notation of Investigation in Personnel
Record File Act; and H.R. 7713, VA Political Performance
Disclosure Act''
On March 21, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct a legislative hearing on the above bills. There was one
witness panel. The following witnesses testified: Mr. John W.
Boerstler, Chief Veterans Experience Officer, Office of Human
Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and
Preparedness, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Tracey
Therit, Chief Human Capital Officer, Office of Human Resources
and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. David Perry, Chief Officer,
Workforce Management and Consulting, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr.
Charles Worthington, Chief Technology Officer, Office of
Information Technology, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs;
and Ms. Joycelyn Westbrooks, RN, Secretary-Treasurer, AFGE
Local 1633, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Paralyzed Veterans of America, American Association of Nurse
Anesthesiology, National Federation of Federal Employees/
Service Employees International Union, Rep. Williams, Senior
Executives Association, Rep. Turner, and United Nurses
Associations of California/Union Health Care Professionals.
OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Accountability at VA: Leadership
Decisions Impacting its Employees and Veterans''
On March 9, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine how VA leaders, and
their employees, are held accountable to the Veterans they
serve. Members had the opportunity to ask questions about VA's
Human Resources Office The hearing's goal was to examine if the
policies and systems VA has in place foster accountability
within VA and, if they do not, how they can be improved.
There was one witness panel. The witness on the first and
only panel was the following: Ms. Tracey Therit, Chief Human
Capital Officer, Human Resources Administration/Operations,
Security and Preparedness, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
American Federation of Government Employees, AFL-CIO.
Joint Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``VHA Recruitment and Retention:
Is Bureaucracy Holding Back a Quality Workforce?''
On May 17, 2023, the Subcommittees on Oversight and
Investigations and Health met in open session to conduct an
oversight hearing to examine the U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs' (VA's) and Veterans Health Administration's (VHA's)
workforce. The subcommittees looked at VA's recruitment,
retention, and relocation efforts over the past year, with
particular emphasis on legislative authorities that were
enacted in the 117th Congress. The hearing also provided the
subcommittees an opportunity to examine VHA's organizational
``modernization'' of its Human Resource functions and its
impact on the ability to adequately support Medical Center
needs. Another goal of the hearing was to look at the
effectiveness of VHA in retaining its workforce, to include
equitable implementation of educational incentives and other
benefits unique to federal employment.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Ms. Tracey Therit, Chief Human
Capital Officer, Human Resources Administration/ Operations,
Security and Preparedness, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs;
Ms. Jessica Bonjorni, MBA, PMP, SPHR, Chief of Human Capital
Management, Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; and Ms. Sharon Silas, Director of Health Care
Team, Government Accountability Office.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Ms.
Mary Jane ``MJ'' Burke, First Executive Vice President, AFGE
National VA Council; Dr. Robyn Begley, DNP, RN, NEA BC, FAAN,
Senior Vice President of Workforce, American Hospital
Association; Mr. Will Morse, Corporate Vice President of
Solution Design and Sales, AMN Healthcare; and Ms. Kelley
Saindon, DNP, RN NE-BC, CHPN, Chairman of the Legislative
Committee, Nurses Organization of Veterans Affairs.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``VA Procurement: Made in America''
On September 20, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine how VA's procurement
practices and the reasons why more progress has not been made.
The subcommittee sought to investigate why very little appeared
to have been accomplished to boost domestic purchases during
the Biden Administration, particularly in the U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs, which is the second largest buyer in the
federal government.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Mr. Michael D. Parrish, Principal Executive Director
and Chief Acquisition Officer, Office of Acquisition,
Logistics, and Construction, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Dr. Angela Billups, Executive Director and Senior
Procurement Executive, Office of Acquisition, Logistics, and
Construction, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Andrew
Centineo, Executive Director for Procurement and Logistics,
Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; and Dr. Thomas Emmendorfer, Executive Director for
Pharmacy Benefits Management Services, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Representative Matt Rosendale (Montana).
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Trust in Transparency: Holding VA
Accountable and Protecting Whistleblowers''
On November 2, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the whistleblower
protections and reporting avenues available to U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs (VA) employees and the veterans they serve.
The subcommittee sought to examine VA and its Office of
Accountability and Whistleblower Protection's (OAWP's) progress
in addressing the subcommittee's concerns raised during its
2019 and 2021 hearings about VA whistleblowers.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Mr. Bruce P. Gipe, Acting
Assistant Secretary, Office of Accountability and Whistleblower
Protection, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Eric
Calhoun, Director, Investigations Division, Office of
Accountability and Whistleblower Protection, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Mr. Ted Radway, Executive Director,
Investigations and Acting Executive Director, Compliance and
Oversight Directorate, Office of Accountability and
Whistleblower Protection, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs;
Ms. Emiliee Collier, Chief, Investigation and Prosecution
Division, Office of Special Counsel; and Mr. Thomas Costa,
Director, Education, Workforce, and Income Security, Government
Accountability Office.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Tristan Leavitt, President, Empower Oversight; Ms. Samanatha
Feinstein, International Director and Staff Attorney,
Government Accountability Project; Mr. Joe Speilberger, Policy
Counsel, Project on Government Oversight; and Mr. Paul Pearson,
Vice President, Whistleblowers of America.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Whistleblowers of America.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Background Checks: Are VA's HR
Failures Risking Drug Abuse and Veteran Harm?''
On December 6, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine VA's personnel
suitability program governance with a particular focus on how
VA ensures employees with felony drug convictions are properly
identified.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Ms. Jessica Bonjoni, Chief, Human Capital
Management, Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Mr. Shawn Steele, Director of the Healthcare
Infrastructure Division, Office of Inspector General, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Seto Bagdoyan, Director for
Audit Services, Forensic Audits & Investigative Service, U.S.
Government Accountability Office; and Mr. Daniel Galik,
Executive Director for Identity Credential and Access
Management, Office of Human Resources and Administration/
Operations, Security and Preparedness, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``VA Revolving Funds: Are Veterans
Being Shortchanged?''
On January 17, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine VA's two large
revolving funds, the Franchise Fund and the Supply Fund, that
provide services to VA offices and other agencies on a fee-for-
service basis. Together, they have assets exceeding $1.7
billion. The Subcommittee discovered that the Supply Fund
operated at a loss in fiscal year 2023 and individual
enterprises within the Franchise Fund routinely operate at a
loss. The Subcommittee sought to question whether the Financial
Services Center was best equipped to process payments for
veterans' community care, most of which were transferred to the
VA Office of Integrated Veteran Care when the Biden
Administration reorganized community care in 2021.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Ms. Teresa Riffel, Deputy Assistant Secretary for
Financial Management Business Transformation, Financial
Management Business Transformation Service, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Mr. Leroy Larkins, Executive Director, Office
of Revolving Funds, Office of Management, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Mr. Phillip Christy, Deputy Executive
Director, Office of Acquisition, Logistics, and Construction,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Ms. Julie Matta,
Deputy General Counsel, U.S. Government Accountability Office.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Ensuring VA's Security: How Can
Congress Best Support VA's Law Enforcement?''
On May 16, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to explore different ways for
Congress to effectively support the U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs (VA) Police and provide oversight to ensure VA is
adequately supporting its Police Officers to serve and protect.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Mr. Alfred, Montoya, Deputy
Assistant Under Secretary for Health Operations, Veterans
Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr.
Troy Brown, Senior Security Officer, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Brandy
Soto, Chief of Police, Little Rock, Arkansas Veterans Affairs
Medical Cetner, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. George
Chester, Chief of Police, Detroit, Michigan Veterans Affairs
Medical Center, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr.
Bryan Hunt, President, AFGE Local #2384.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Kapua Conley, Regional President, Sentara Healthcare System,
Hampton, Virginia; Mr. Chuck Dowd, Vice President, Public
Safety Broadband Technology Association, Las Vegas, Nevada; and
Mr. Jon Retzer, Assistant National Legislative Director,
Disabled American Veterans.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``VA Accountability: What Has Happened
to Hampton?''
On September 24, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the alleged and
substantiated misconduct within the Department of Veterans
Affairs (VA) Hampton Medical Center (Hampton VA).
Whistleblowers alleged the Hampton VA Chief of Surgery was a
poor leader who retaliated against those who reported patient
safety concerns and failed to act against medical professionals
who were clinically inept. Whistleblowers also alleged Hampton
VA leadership did not adequately address the whistleblowers'
concerns and poorly managed the facility. The whistleblowers
alleged this ineffective leadership led to internal employee
disputes, workplace harassment, and facility cleanliness
issues. As a result, many providers have left the facility.
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: Mr. Paul S. Crews, Veterans Integrated
Services Network 6 Director, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Dr. Frederick Kotler, MD, Interim Medical Inspector,
Office of the Medical Inspector, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Mr. Walt C. Dannenberg, Acting Executive Director, VA
Hampton Health Care, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and
Dr. Jennifer Baptiste, Deputy Assistant Inspector General for
Healthcare Inspections, Office of Inspector General, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology.
SITE VISITS
Columbia, South Carolina. On February 3, 2023, the
Subcommittee majority staff conducted a site visit to the
Columbia Regional Office and Columbia VA Medical Center. Staff
met with VBA and VAMC leadership and took a tour of the
facilities, including the medical center's Women's Clinic. The
visit included continued oversight of PACT Act implementation.
Staff also met with representatives from the local AFGE about
their relationship with regional office leadership. Minority
staff joined for a briefing that provided an overview of the
medical center and the progress it has made.
Hampton, Virginia. On April 12, 2023, the Subcommittee
majority staff visited Hampton VA Medical Center with
Chairwoman Kiggans and her team. Staff visited Hampton VAMC in
part, because it was ranked 134 out of 141 VA Medical Centers
in the 2022 All Employee Survey. The Hampton VA has overseen a
steady increase in veterans utilizing its care. Therefore,
leadership argued they need a new facility to meet demand.
Chairwoman Kiggans stressed the need to follow up on the
development of VA facilities in and around Virginia Beach.
Majority staff also met with student veterans at Old Dominion
University where student veterans discussed the need for better
access to mental health care and improved on campus VA liaison
services. Chairwoman Kiggans and Majority staff also hosted a
town hall where veterans focused on the need for adequate care
including accessibility to the East Shore Rural Health System
as part of the Community Care program.
Loma Linda, California. On June 15, 2023, the Subcommittee
majority staff met with personnel from different Loma Linda VA
departments. Majority staff met with leadership to discuss
geriatric care. Loma Linda clinical staff discussed the need
for a greater financial investment in geriatric care
infrastructure. On June 16th, Rep. Obernolte of California
joined majority staff on a visit to the medical center and
toured the facility with local leadership. Before the tour, Mr.
Obernolte and majority staff discussed various disciplinary
actions with Loma Linda leadership. Additionally, majority
staff met with whistleblowers to discuss Loma Linda VA waste,
fraud, and abuse, and whistleblower retaliation.
San Diego, California. On August 14, 2023, the Subcommittee
majority staff conducted a site visit to Jennifer Moreno VA
Medical Center in San Diego. Staff met with Community Care,
Police, GEC, Supply Chain, and Mental Health and Emergency
Department leadership. Community Care leadership shared with
staff that their biggest challenge involves medical records and
the lack of coordination from community partners. During the
staff's meeting with police leadership, the Police Chief
explained the jurisdictional issues VA police have when
responding to calls. For example, leadership explained how VA
police would not be able to take action without extensive
coordination and approval if an individual committing
disorderly conduct or experiencing behavioral health challenges
left the facility's immediate boundaries.
Loma Linda, California. On August 15-16, 2023, the
Subcommittee majority staff met with a former VA official to
discuss whistleblower protections and problems VA
whistleblowers in California are experiencing. Staff also met
with individuals who raised concerns about patient safety and
employment issues at VA facilities in Loma Linda. Staff was
able to identify core issues facing patients and employees at
VA Loma Linda, which have led to ongoing investigations.
Palo Alto, California. On August 17, 2023, the Subcommittee
majority staff conducted an oversight trip to the Palo Alto
Veteran Affairs Medical Center. Majority staff met with the
acting Medical Center Director and senior VA leaders of the
following offices and programs: Finance, Police and Security,
Supply Chain, Geriatrics, and the Office of Facilities. Staff
had the opportunity to tour the largest multidisciplinary
rehabilitation building in the VA Health Care System. O&I also
met with supply chain leadership to discuss corrective actions
since the VA OIG report on the facility's purchase card misuse.
Leadership assured staff that there have been systemic changes
to inventory and supply management to ensure financial
efficiency.
San Francisco, California. On August 18, 2023, the
Subcommittee majority staff conducted an oversight visit to the
San Francisco Veteran Affairs Medical Center. Staff met with
the Medical Center Director and leadership from the following
offices and programs: Social Work, HUD/VASH, and the Police
Force. Medical Center leadership informed staff during the
visit that there are 196 residencies through a University of
California San Francisco School of Medicine partnership. San
Francisco VA has one of the largest funded research programs in
VHA, with $84.3 million in research expenditures in FY2022. O&I
visited the new Memory Care unit within the Community Living
Center. The Center houses 14 single-bed units that integrate
construction with minimal risk of triggering unsafe behaviors
in a quiet and decluttered atmosphere with reassuring sensory
interventions.
Tomah, Wisconsin. On October 10, 2023, the Subcommittee on
Oversight and Investigations and Health majority staff
conducted an oversight visit to the Tomah Veterans Affairs
Medical Center. O&I and Health traveled to Tomah, WI, to meet
with the Tomah Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) executive
leadership and VISN 12 representatives, including the VISN 12
Director. During the visit, the facility leadership team
provided staff with details on current initiatives and
challenges at the VAMC. Staff had the opportunity to observe
both clinical and administrative team huddles, tour newly
constructed facilities, and engage with employees from multiple
health service departments who provide daily services to
veterans. Finally, staff met with representatives from the
local AFGE union.
St. Petersburg, Florida. On November 6, 2023, the
Subcommittee majority staff traveled to Florida to conduct
oversight visits at the VA Tampa and Bay Pines VA Healthcare
Systems. Staff assessed operations at the North Pinellas VA
Clinic, the C.W. Bill Young VAMC in St. Petersburg, the Bay
Pines National Cemetery, and was joined by the Subcommittee on
Economic Opportunity majority staff to visit the James A. Haley
VAMC in Tampa, Tampa VA Domiciliary and St. Petersburg Regional
Office. Staff from the offices of Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL-
13), who represents most of St. Petersburg, and Rep. Laurel Lee
(R-FL-15), who represents most of Tampa, were present during
the visit to the VAMC's in their respective districts. During
the visits to the medical centers and the national cemetery,
committee staff were briefed on ongoing initiatives and current
challenges. Staff also met with AFGE representatives at the
James A. Haley VAMC and at C.W. Bill Young VAMC. The St.
Petersburg Regional Office briefed O&I and EO staff on
challenges related to the Veteran Readiness and Employment
office.
Northport, New York. On November 29, 2023, the Subcommittee
majority staff traveled to Northport, NY to conduct an
oversight visit of the Northport VAMC on Long Island. Staff was
joined by staff from the offices of Representative LaLota (R-
NY-01), Representative Garbarino (R-NY-02), and Representative
D'Esposito (R-NY-04). Staff assessed operations at the medical
center and conducted oversight based on the Committee's 2016
and 2017 investigations into the aging infrastructure at
Northport VAMC. The campus is 277 acres and has far too many
buildings, many of them vacant, to match its current patient
volume. Staff found that while there are many buildings that
remain in disrepair and there are several capital improvement
projects that have yet to be funded, the medical center has
completed or is in the process of completing a number of
significant projects addressing the major deficiencies that
were identified by the Committee in 2017 and in a 2014 facility
condition assessment. An updated facility condition assessment
was conducted earlier in 2023 and the facility stated that they
expect it to be published in late 2023 or early 2024.
Atlanta and Augusta, Georgia. On December 11 to 13, 2023,
the Subcommittee majority staff traveled to Georgia, VISN 7, to
conduct oversight visits within the Augusta and Atlanta VA
Healthcare systems. The visit included visiting two medical
centers, the Charlie Norwood Department of Veterans' Affairs
Medical Center in Augusta, GA and the Joseph Maxwell Cleland
Medical Center in Atlanta, GA, and the Cobb County
Multispecialty Clinic in Marietta, GA. Additionally,
subcommittee staff met with individuals off-site who shared
concerns about their respective facilities. Staff from the
offices of Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA-11), who represents most
of Marietta, GA and Rep. Rick Allen (R-GA-12), who represents
most of Augusta, were present during the visit to the
facilities in their respective districts. During the visits,
committee staff were briefed on ongoing initiatives and current
challenges. Finally, committee staff met with AFGE
representatives at both the Charlie Norwood and Jospeh Maxwell
Cleland VAMCs.
Brooklyn, New York. On December 18, 2023, the Subcommittee
majority staff traveled to Brooklyn, NY to conduct an oversight
visit at the Brooklyn VA Medical Center. O&I staff assessed
operations and spoke with employees at the facility. Staff from
the office of Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11), who represents
Staten Island and the southern tip of Brooklyn, including the
medical facility, also attended the visit. During the visit,
committee staff were briefed on ongoing initiatives and current
challenges. Staff also met with local AFGE representatives.
Hampton Beach, Virgina. On March 27, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority staff traveled to Virginia Beach, VA, to meet with six
whistleblowers who work at the Hampton Department of Veterans
Affairs Medical Center (Hampton VAMC). Committee staff were
also accompanied by two Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02) staff
members. During the visit, Committee staff heard credible
allegations, that retaliatory and ineffective leadership from
members of the Hampton VAMC leadership may be allowing
negligent medical providers to endanger Veterans lives by
missing cancer diagnosis, failing to fully remove easily
identifiable cancerous masses, and purposefully avoiding
patients who require care.
Montrose, New York. On April 18, 2024, the Oversight and
Investigations and Health Subcommittees majority staff traveled
to Montrose, NY, to conduct an oversight visit at the Franklin
Delano Roosevelt (FDR) Hospital. Staff from the Office of Rep.
Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), who represents Rockland and Putnam
Counties and portions of Westchester and Dutchess County, which
includes the medical facility, also attended the visit. Staff
assessed operations and spoke with facility leadership and
employees. During the visit, staff were also briefed on the
facility's ongoing initiatives.
Fayetteville, North Carolina. On April 25, 2024, the
Subcommittee majority staff as well as local congressional
staff were hosted by facility leadership for multiple briefings
regarding the services offered at the facility and programs
administered by the local VA Medical Center. In FY 2023, the
facility treated more than 92,838 Veterans and had more than
850,000 outpatient visits. The demographics are split roughly
80/20 between male and female veterans. According to Strategic
Analytics for Improvement and Learning (SAIL) data, care
coordination and provider rating scored in the ``opportunities
available'' quartile which is below average. Congressional
staff received a detailed explanation from leadership and their
plan to implement changes to improve care coordination and
provider ratings.
Syracuse, New York: On June 21, 2024, the Oversight and
Investigations and Health Subcommittees majority staff
supported Representative Brandon Williams (R-NY-22) with two
events. First, staff visited Clear Path for Veterans, an
organization offering comprehensive services such as canine
therapy, wellness, career, and culinary programs aimed at
empowering veterans. Staff toured the facility, learned about
the programs, and discussed Clear Path's Fox Grant application
with leadership who emphasized the success of their meal
program. Later, staff attended a veterans' resource fair hosted
by Rep. Williams, alongside VA representatives and local
agencies. Attendees had positive feedback about the Syracuse VA
Medical Center but raised concerns over the closure of its
neurological/spinal unit, which remains under review by the
Health Subcommittee.
Denver, Colorado: On July 10 to 12, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority staff visited the Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical
Center and the University of Colorado School of Medicine in
Aurora, Colorado, following the release of VA OIG and OMI
reports detailing leadership failures and patient safety
concerns. During meetings with VISN 19 and Rocky Mountain VAMC
leadership, staff discussed the disconnect between the facility
and its providers, communication challenges, and the impact on
patient care and resident education. The toxic culture at the
VAMC led to significant staff turnover, particularly in the ICU
and cardiothoracic departments, exacerbated by a hiring freeze.
Though facility morale is low, many providers remain committed
to the VA's mission. VISN leadership has faced criticism for
inadequate oversight, with leadership changes and ongoing
investigations into former leaders. Concerns persist regarding
the VISN director's leadership approach and her awareness of
facility issues. Staff recommended continued oversight and
engagement with whistleblowers to ensure VA addresses these
challenges.
Central Alabama Health Care System: On August 5 to 7, 2024,
the Subcommittee majority staff visited VA facilities in north
Florida, central Alabama, and west Georgia to address concerns
raised by the district offices of Representative Neal Dunn (R-
FL-02) and Representative Barry Moore (R-AL-02). Key issues
included VA appointment delays, community care challenges, and
the closure of the Panama City Beach clinic pharmacy, which
affects veterans' access to medications. At the G.V. (Sonny)
Montgomery VAMC, staff reported fears of retaliation from
leadership. The Columbus clinic, the newest in the system,
offers comprehensive services and robust security, serving as a
model for future facilities. Committee staff has continued to
work with Rep. Moore's staff including sending a Chairman's
letter to the Secretary.
Bakersfield, California: On August 12, 2024, the O&I,
Health, and DAMA Subcommittee majority staff participated in a
town hall with Representatives Valadao (R-CA-22) and Fong (R-
CA-20) where veterans and local stakeholders expressed concerns
about lengthy claims processing times, homelessness, and access
to care at VA. Staff then visited the Bakersfield Community-
Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC), where VA staff highlighted
difficulties in utilizing their current space effectively while
awaiting a new facility. VA staff also highlighted how the
clinic's reliance on outdated medical equipment has hindered
the quality of care, and how veterans face challenges accessing
the onsite pharmacy, which often resorting to mail-order
prescriptions.
Big Sandy Rancheria, California: On August 11, 2024, O&I,
Health, and DAMA Subcommittee majority staff visited the Big
Sandy Rancheria, where tribal leaders raised concerns about the
underuse of their cemetery, that was built in 2016.
Additionally, they highlighted issues related to the tribe's
responsibility for keeping up maintenance costs. They praised
the effectiveness of the National Cemetery Administration's
(NCA) national training, which was tailored for tribal staff.
Madera and Oakland, California: On August 12, 2024, O&I,
Health, and DAMA Subcommittee majority staff participated in a
Representative Duarte (R-CA-13) led town hall and visited the
Oakland Regional Office (RO). At the townhall, which occurred
in Representative Duarte's district in Madera California,
Committee staff were available to assist Representative
Durate's constituents with VA related questions. At the Oakland
Regional Office, Committee staff listened to claims processing
staff who raised concerns about high workforce attrition and
training gaps. These issues have negatively impacted the
overall quality and timeliness of claims, with the RO currently
ranking 27th in performance metrics. Committee staff also heard
from Union representatives about reported tensions between
leadership and staff. Veterans Benefit Administration (VBA) RO
leadership explained that to fix these concerns, the facility
implemented a mentor system, where a senior Veterans Service
Representatives (VSRs) and Rating Veteran Service
Representatives (RVSRs) are paired with junior staff.
Hampton, Virginia. On August 26 to 28, 2024, the
Subcommittee minority staff and Health minority staff conducted
a site visit to the Hampton VA Medical Center. The purpose of
this trip was to obtain a perspective on concerns that have
been raised about facilities management, credentialing and
privileging, risk management, recruitment and retention, and
quality management at the facility, ahead of future oversight
hearings on the topic.
Buffalo, New York: On August 29, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority and minority staff traveled to Buffalo NY to visit the
Buffalo Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center
(Buffalo VAMC) after learning the facility poorly managed
oncology referrals made to the community, which led to veterans
receiving delayed care. Committee staff's goal was to talk with
Buffalo VAMC employees and VISN 2 leadership to better
understand how the poor management occurred and what the
facility was currently doing to not only correct previous
errors, but ensure similar mistakes are not repeated.
New York City, New York. On September 15 to 16, 2024, the
Subcommittee minority staff conducted a site visit at two
medical facilities in New York City: the Bronx VA Medical
Center and the Manhattan VA Medical Center. The purpose of this
trip was to provide oversight of operations at the Bronx and
Manhattan VAMCs as it relates to clinical and nonclinical
staff, police and security efforts, and IT modernization
projects.
Los Angeles, California. On September 30 to October 2,
2024, the Subcommittee minority staff conducted a site visit to
the West Los Angeles VA Medical Center. The purpose of this
trip was to provide an oversight of operations at the Greater
Los Angeles Healthcare System, specifically regarding veteran
homelessness, VA police, supply chain, and community relations.
Staff met with veterans and various community officials,
stakeholders, partners, and providers who will engage in
services for regional veterans.
Rocky Point, New York: On October 15, 2024, the
Subcommittee majority staff participated in a veteran
roundtable hosted by Representative LaLota (R-NY-01) in Rocky
Point, New York. Roundtable participants included veteran
leaders from local Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs),
Suffolk County New York Community leaders, Rep. Lalota staff,
and committee staff. The roundtable addressed several pressing
issues impacting the local veteran community, and veterans
nationally, including mental health care, housing, healthcare,
the Northport VA Medical Center (Northport VAMC), and state
veterans' homes. The visit's goals were to: (1) learn the local
veteran population's opinion on major veteran topics including
mental health challenges, access to healthcare services at the
Northport VAMC, housing concerns, and the support level
veterans get from state veterans' homes; and (2) support
Representative LaLota with subject matter expertise. After the
roundtable, staff accepted an invitation to tour the Long
Island State Veterans Home.
Hempstead, New York: On October 21, 2024, the Subcommittee
majority staff participated in a veteran town hall hosted by
Representative Anthony D'Esposito (R-NY-04) in Hempstead, New
York. The event allowed veterans, leaders of local veteran
service organizations (VSOs), and local stakeholders to share
their concerns on issues impacting veterans living in Rep.
D'Esposito's district. During the town hall, committee staff
engaged with veterans, local VSO leaders, and community
stakeholders to hear about issues impacting veterans in
Representative D'Esposito's district. Attendees raised concerns
about access to VA benefits, healthcare, and employment
counseling, as well as homelessness among veterans. Attendees
were also interested in hearing more about Congress's work
combating antisemitism at the VA.
Mountain Home Tennessee: On October 30, 2024, the
Subcommittee majority staff traveled to Mountain Home,
Tennessee to conduct oversight at the James H. Quillen
Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center (Mountain Home
VAMC) to further the Committee's investigation into sexual
harassment, sexual assault, and inappropriate relationship
allegations at the facility. Travel to the Mountain Home VAMC
was necessary as VA would not provide the Committee with
requested information regarding the many serious allegations.
Committee staff's goal was to talk to VISN, facility, and
police leadership to gain a better understanding of how the
allegations were reported and addressed.
Atlantic City, New Jersey: On October 30, 2024, the
Subcommittee minority staff traveled to Atlantic City, New
Jersey to participate in the New Jersey Veterans Housing
Symposium. Staff discussed issues that New Jersey VSOs and
homeless service providers face in constructing new permanent
supportive housing for homeless veterans in the region. Staff
also heard directly from VA staff about how they are improving
the Veteran Justice Outreach program to further serve veterans
who have cases before the area Veterans Treatment Courts.
Wappingers Falls, New York: On December 10, 2024, Committee
staff traveled to Wappingers Falls, New York to conduct
oversight at the Castle Point VA Medical Center. Staff assessed
operations, spoke with facility leadership and employees, and
toured the facility. Staff also met with facility union
employees to gain insight into the challenges union employees
are currently facing.
ACTIVITIES OF THE SUBCOMMITTEE ON
TECHNOLOGY MODERNIZATION
MATT ROSENDALE, Montana, Chair
SHEILA CHERFILUS McCORMICK, Florida, Ranking Member
NANCY MACE, South Carolina TIM KENNEDY, New York\5\
KEITH SELF, Texas
------
William Mallison, Majority Staff Director
John Harry, Minority Staff Director
----------
\5\On September 10, 2024, Representative Greg Landsman resigned his
position on the Subcommittee on Technology Modernization, and
Representative Tim Kennedy joined the Subcommittee.
OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``VistA: the Good, the Bad, and the
Misunderstood''
On March 7, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine VistA's strengths and
weaknesses as well as explore its attributes, which are
commonly misunderstood. The Subcommittee discussed how VA will
operate and maintain VistA while the Oracle Cerner
implementation is ongoing and the likelihood that the
Department will continue relying on VistA for many years.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Mr. Daniel McCune, Executive
Director of Software Product Management, Office of Information
& Technology, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Charles
Hume, Chief Informatics Officer, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Thomas
O'Toole, M.D., Deputy Assistant Undersecretary for Health for
Clinical Services, Veterans Health Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Zhuchun ``Emily'' Qui,
Director of Health Informatics, Office of Information &
Technology, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and Mr.
Michael Giurbino, Director of Health Infrastructure and Systems
Management, Office of Information & Technology, U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: the
Honorable Roger Baker; the Honorable James Gfrerer; and Mr.
Peter L. Levin.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Electronic Health Record
Modernization Deep Dive: Pharmacy''
On May 9, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine the Oracle Cerner
electronic health record (EHR) system's pharmacy functions,
including changes and enhancements that were completed in
February and April 2023. The Subcommittee sough to discuss the
VA's April 21 announcement that will halt future deployments of
the Oracle Cerner EHR while prioritizing improvements at the
five sites currently using the system, as part of a larger
program reset.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Mr. Neil Evans, M.D., Acting Program Executive
Director, Electronic Health Record Modernization Integration
Office, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Thomas
Emmendorfer, Pharm.D., Executive Director, Pharmacy Benefits
Management Services, Veterans Health Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Robert Silverman, Pharm.D.,
Chairman, Pharmacy Council, Veterans Health Administration,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Carol Harris,
Director, Information Technology and Cybersecurity, Government
Accountability Office; Mr. Mike Sicilia, Executive Vice
President, Global Industries, Oracle; and Mr. James Ellzy,
M.D., Vice President, Federal, Health Executive, Oracle.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``VA Information Technology
Contracting: Challenges in Consolidation of Competition and
Conflict of Interest''
On May 24, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine trends in the U.S.
Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) information technology
contracting including increasing spending, a consolidating
contractor/supplier base, and procurement methods that limit
the pool of eligible companies. The Subcommittee also
considered VA's management of organizational conflicts of
interest among current and prospective contractors.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Ms. Shelby Oakley, Director, Contracting and
National Security Acquisitions, U.S. Government Accountability
Office; and Ms. Hana Schank, Senior Advisor, New America.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``The Status of VA Financial Management
Business Transformation''
On June 20, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine the U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs' effort, Financial Management Business
Transformation (FMBT) program, to replace its aging finance and
accounting systems with the CGI Momentum system and resolve
longstanding audit findings.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Ms. Teresa Riffel, Deputy Assistant Secretary for
Financial Management Business Transformation, Financial
Management Business Transformation Service, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Mr. Charles Tapp II, Chief Financial Officer,
Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Mr. Daniel McCune, Deputy Chief Information Officer,
Software Product Management, Office of Information &
Technology, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Sidney
Getz, Senior Vice President, CGI Federal; and Mr. Nick Dahl,
Deputy Assistant Inspector General for Audits and Evaluations,
Office of Inspector General, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Examining VA.gov''
On September 26, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine recent glitches in
VA.gov that impacted nearly 100,000 veterans and survivors,
causing their benefits claims to be delayed or lost. The
hearing aimed to cover when VA first became aware of the
benefits-related glitches, whether the Department determined
and disclosed the extent of the problems, how the affected
veterans would be made whole, and what VA's plan was to improve
the website and associated systems.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: the Honorable Kurt DelBene, Assistant Secretary for
Information and Technology, Office of Information & Technology,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Charles Worthington,
Chief Technology Officer, Office of Information & Technology,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr. Ray Tellez, Acting
Assistant Deputy Under Secretary for Automated Benefits
Delivery, Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Electronic Health Record
Modernization Deep Dive: System Uptime''
On November 15, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the Oracle Cerner
electronic health record (EHR) system. The Subcommittee
demonstrated that Oracle and VA had made some improvements,
independent data and the employees themselves portray the
situation as dramatically worse. The Oracle Cerner EHR's
instability has been caused by a wide range of problems that
Oracle, VA, and the Department of Defense (DoD) are each
responsible for. The data indicates that the Oracle system
itself is the primary cause. The Subcommittee questioned if
Oracle and VA were not cooperating adequately, and to see if
the DoD was still not sufficiently prioritizing solving the
problems that its aging IT infrastructure created, despite this
issue having been escalated to the VA and DoD chief information
officers' level earlier this year.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: the Honorable Kurt DelBene, Assistant Secretary for
Information and Technology, Office of Information & Technology,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Laura Prietula, Deputy
Chief Information Officer, Electronic Health Record
Modernization Integration Office, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Mr. Bill Tinston, Director, Federal Electronic Health
Record Modernization Office, U.S. Department of Defense; and
Mr. Lance Scott, Solutions Integration Director and Acting
Technical Director, Federal Electronic Health Record
Modernization Office, U.S. Department of Defense.
The following groups submitted statements for the record:
Oracle
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Reexamining VA.gov''
On December 4, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to follow up on the promises
that the VA officials made in the September 26th hearing,
``Examining VA.gov'' to make over 120,000 veterans and
survivors whole, whose benefits claims were delayed or lost
because of global glitches in VA.gov. The Subcommittee also
sought to explore why the pension mistakes happened, whether
they were truly resolved, how the veterans would be held
harmless, and whether there were connections between any of
these issues.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: the Honorable Kurt DelBene, Assistant Secretary for
Information and Technology, Office of Information & Technology,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Charles Worthington,
Chief Technology Officer, Office of Information & Technology,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Ray Tellez, Executive
Director, Office of Business Integration, Veterans Benefits
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr.
Paul Shute, Deputy Under Secretary for Automated Benefits
Delivery, Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``The Future of Data Privacy and
Artificial Intelligence at VA''
On January 29, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine how the Department
of Veterans Affairs (VA) manages veterans' data and protects
their privacy. This includes detecting and containing data
breaches caused by employees losing or stealing records. Such
data breaches have been happening several times per year with
each incident impacting hundreds or a few thousand veterans.
Protecting data privacy also includes preventing the
mishandling of veterans' data by VA's contractors or technology
partners who are entrusted with access to VA's data sets or
systems, potentially impacting thousands or millions of people.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Mr. Charles Worthington, Chief Technology Officer,
Office of Information & Technology, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Mr. Gil Alterovitz, Ph.D., Director, VA National
Artificial Intelligence Institute, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. John
Oswalt, Deputy Chief Information Officer, Office of Freedom of
Information Act, Office of Information & Technology, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Stephania Griffin,
Director, Information Access and Privacy Office, Veterans
Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and
Ms. Shane Tews, Nonresident Senior Fellow, American Enterprise
Institute.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Electronic Health Record
Modernization Deep Dive: Can the Oracle Pharmacy Software Be
Made Safe and Effective?''
On February 15, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine continued problems
with the pharmacy functions of the Oracle Cerner electronic
health record (EHR) system, including Oracle's second
unsuccessful attempt to implement a major fix in a software
update, and a forthcoming Office of Inspector General (OIG)
report that uncovered errors in roughly 250,000 veterans'
medication records, potentially impacting the accuracy drug-to-
drug interaction and medication allergy checks. The
Subcommittee will also examine the pharmacy challenges
presented by the Oracle Cerner EHR go-live at the James A.
Lovell Federal Health Care Center, which is scheduled to happen
on March 9th.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Mr. Neil Evans, M.D., Acting Program Executive
Director, EHRM Integration Office, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Mr. Thomas Emmendorfer, Pharm.D., Executive Director,
Pharmacy Benefits Management Services, Veterans Heath
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Robert
Silverman, Pharm.D., Chairman, EHRM Pharmacy Council, Veterans
Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr.
David Case, Deputy Inspector General, Office of Inspector
General, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr. Mike
Sicilia, Executive Vice President, Oracle Corporation.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``VA Supply Chain Modernization: Ready
for Prime Time?''
On April 9, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine Supply Chain
Modernization project when VA ignored an ultimatum in March
2024 to provide the information. The Subcommittee examined the
Department of Veterans Affairs plan to award a series of
contracts, potentially worth hundreds of millions or billions
of dollars, for a new supply chain management IT system.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Mr. Michael D. Parrish, Chief Acquisition Officer
and Principal Executive Director, Office of Acquisition,
Logistics, and Construction, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Mr. Ronald Miller, Ph.D., Deputy Assistant Under
Secretary for Health for Support, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr.
Dewaine Beard, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Veterans
Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Office of Information and Technology Budget Request for Fiscal
Year 2025''
On May 14, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine the Office of
Information and Technology budget request for FY 2025. The
Biden administration requested $7.595 billion for OIT for
fiscal year (FY) 2025, which is a slight cut from $7.644
billion in FY 2024 (including the base budget and the Toxic
Exposures Fund). The flat budget included a 99% cut to IT
development, a 2.7% cut to operations and maintenance, and a
4.9% increase to salaries and administration.
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: the Honorable Kurt DelBene, Assistant
Secretary for Information and Technology, Office of Information
and Technology, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr.
Dewaine Beard, Principal Deputy Under Secretary, Office of
Information and Technology, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Mr. Nathan Tierney, Deputy Chief Information Officer
and Chief People Officer, Office of Information and Technology,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr. Timothy Puetz,
Deputy Chief Information Officer and Chief Financial Officer,
Office of Information and Technology, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``The VA Beneficiary Travel Self-
Service System: Mission Accomplished?''
On June 11, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine the U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs Beneficiary Travel Self-Service System
(BTSSS), a web-based system for veterans to input their travel
reimbursement claims, replacing the medical center VetLink
kiosks and the beneficiary travel module within VistA. The
Subcommittee aimed to question how the BTSSS project has been
managed, why VA ignored veterans' complaints all over the
country, and what is necessary for the system to achieve its
goals.
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: Mr. Ryan Heiman, Deputy Executive Director
for Member Services, Veterans Health Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Benjamin Williams, Veterans
Transportation Program Director, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Carrie
Lee, Deputy Chief Information Officer, Office of Information
and Technology, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr.
Jon Retzer, Assistant National Legislative Director, Disabled
American Veterans.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Report Card: Assessing Electronic
Health Record Modernization at the Captain James A. Lovell
Federal Health Care Center''
On July 22, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine the Department of
Veterans Affairs (VA) and Oracle implementation of the Oracle
Cerner electronic health record (EHR) system at the Captain
James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center in North Chicago,
Illinois. The hearing aimed to assess the new problems the
facility is experiencing, in addition to the challenges
regarding additional staff needed and the billions of dollars
of cost to compensate for the system's productivity defects and
safety risks.
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: Mr. Neil Evans, M.D., Acting Program
Executive Director, Electronic Health Record Modernization
Integration Office, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms.
Laura Duke, Chief Financial Officer, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Robert
Buckley, M.D., Director, Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health
Care Center, Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Ms. Seema Verma, Executive Vice President,
Oracle Health and Oracle Life Sciences, Oracle Corporation.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``VA's Open Cash Register: Fraud,
Waste, Abuse, and Revenue Operations''
On September 19, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the Department of
Veterans Affairs' (VA) Program Integrity Tool (PIT), which is a
key system used to collect payments from insurance companies
and veterans for non-service connected community care as well
as to prevent waste, fraud, and abuse when VA pays community
care providers' claims.
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: the Honorable Kurt DelBene, Assistant
Secretary for Information and Technology and Chief Information
Office, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Cherri Waters,
Executive Director, Health Portfolio, Office of Information and
Technology, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Laura
Duke, Chief Financial Officer, Veterans Health Administration,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Tracy Davis-Bradley,
Ph.D., Chief Integrity and Compliance Officer, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Ms.
Jennifer McDonald, Ph.D., Director, Community Care Division,
Office of Inspector General, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Ensuring Timely Access: Challenges in
VA Scheduling''
On September 26, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the Department of
Veterans Affairs' (VA) information technology systems used to
schedule veterans' medical appointments. The Subcommittee will
also examine the viability of these projects and VA's overall
strategy to modernize appointment scheduling and encourage the
Department to move forward, not waste more time and money by
repeatedly changing direction.
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: Ms. Hillary Peabody, Acting Assistant
Under Secretary for Health for Integrated Veteran Care,
Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Mr. Mark Hausman, M.D., Executive Director for
Integrated Access, Veterans Health Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; and Ms. Cherri Waters,
Executive Director, Health Portfolio, Office of Information and
Technology, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``VA Cybersecurity: Protecting Veteran
Data from Evolving Threats''
On November 20, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the results of the
Office of Inspector General's annual Federal Information
Security Modernization Act (FISMA) audit and a special
cybersecurity assessment by the MITRE Corporation that Congress
commissioned in the Strengthening VA Cybersecurity Act of 2022
(Public Law 117-302).
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: the Honorable Kurt DelBene, Assistant
Secretary for Information and Technology and Chief Information
Officer, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Lynette
Sherrill, Chief Information Security Officer, Office of
Information and Technology, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Mr. Jeff Spaeth, Executive Director of Information
Security Operations, Office of Information and Technology, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Michael Bowman, Director,
Information Security Division, Office of Inspector General,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr. David Powner,
Executive Director, Center for Data-Driven Policy, MITRE
Corporation.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Modernizing VA: Lessons Learned in
the 118th Congress''
On December 12, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the Department of
Veterans Affairs (VA) technology modernization projects during
the 118th Congress.
The following witnesses testified on the first panel: Ms.
Carol Harris, Director, Information Technology and
Cybersecurity Issues, U.S. Government Accountability Office;
Ms. Lynn Overmann, Executive Director, Beeck Center at
Georgetown University; and Mr. Reynold Schweickhardt, Non-
Resident Senior Fellow for Congressional Modernization.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: the
Honorable Kurt DelBene, Assistant Secretary for Information and
Technology, Office of Information & Technology, U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Robert Orifici, Director, Benefits and
Memorial Systems Portfolio, Office of Information & Technology,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Ms. Cherri Waters,
Executive Director, Health Portfolio, Office of Information &
Technology, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
ROUNDTABLES
On October 23, 2023, the Subcommittee conducted a
roundtable to discuss the trajectory of the electronic health
record (EHR) industry. Specifically, the Subcommittee discussed
the original policy objectives and expectations with respect to
EHRs during the Bush and Obama administrations, how well the
industry has performed against these expectations, and current
issues facing the industry.
In attendance were: Mr. Michael Cannon, Director, Health
Policy Studies, Cato Institute; Ms. Christina Caraballo, Vice
President, Informatics, Health Information Management and
Systems Society (HIMSS); Ms. Patricia MacTaggart, Teaching
Instructor and Program Director of Health Informatics, George
Washington University, Health Information Management and
Systems Society (HIMSS); Mr. Brian Miller, M.D., Nonresident
Fellow, American Enterprise Institute; Ms. Nora Wells, Analyst
in Health Policy, Analyst in Health Policy, Congressional
Research Service.
SITE VISITS
North Chicago, Illinois. On June 13-14, 2023, the
Subcommittee majority and minority staff visited the James A.
Lovell Federal Health Care Center (FHCC) to examine the impact
of the Oracle Cerner EHR, which went live on March 9, 2024.
This was DoD's last Oracle Cerner deployment and VA's sixth.
This oversight visit allowed committee staff to speak directly
with facility staff and hear their firsthand perspective about
the Oracle Cerner EHR. Staff concluded that the facility is
performing better on Oracle Cerner than the previous VA medical
centers, but this is because of an infusion of resources and
strong management, not improvements in the Cerner EHR.
Pittsburgh, PA. On September 12, 2023, Subcommittee staff
from the Technology Modernization and Disability and Memorial
Affairs Subcommittees visited the Pittsburgh VA Regional Office
to examine the office's operations and review the progress of
disability compensation claims automation. The office has
experienced a large staff expansion in the last year and seems
to be well managed and high performing. Staff expressed
frustration with the Veterans Benefits Management System
(VBMS), but they were much more positive about automation than
the Boise RO staff in October 2022. The automation tools have
become more accurate and useful.
North Chicago, Illinois. On December 8, 2023, the
Subcommittee majority staff visited the James A. Lovell Federal
Health Care Center (FHCC) to examine preparations for the
Oracle Cerner EHR go-live on March 9, 2024. FHCC is the only
DoD-VA joint hospital. Discussions with facility staff revealed
that Lovell is already struggling with staffing shortages in
primary care, cardiology, radiology, and a few other
specialties. Immediately after the EHR go-live, the facility
plans to go down to 50% of normal patient volumes to
accommodate for the transition to the new EHR. Staff concluded
from the visit that FHCC is somewhat better prepared for Oracle
Cerner than previous VA medical centers, but it poses a host of
unique challenges that outweigh that preparedness.
Seattle, Washington. On October 1-3, 2024, the Subcommittee
minority staff conducted a site visit to the Seattle VA Medical
Center. The purpose of this trip was to conduct oversight of
the Seattle VAMC's preparation to transition to the Electronic
Health Record, and to attend the opening of Minority Veterans
of America's new Transitional Housing Program.
ACTIVITIES OF THE WOMEN VETERANS TASK FORCE
AUMUA AMATA COLEMAN RADEWAGEN, American Samoa, Chairwoman
JULIA BROWNLEY, California, Co-Chairwoman
COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP ON THE TASK FORCE
MIKE BOST, Illinois MARK TAKANO, California
JACK BERGMAN, Michigan MIKE LEVIN, California
NANCY MACE, South Carolina CHRIS PAPPAS, New Hampshire
MATT ROSENDALE, Montana SHEILA CHERFILUS-McCORMICK,
MARIANNETTE MILLER-MEEKS, Iowa Florida
GREG MURPHY, North Carolina CHRIS DELUZIO, Pennsylvania
SCOTT FRANKLIN, Florida MORGAN McGARVEY, Kentucky
DERRICK VAN ORDEN, Wisconsin DELIA RAMIREZ, Illinois
MORGAN LUTTRELL, Texas GREG LANDSMAN, Ohio
JUAN CISCOMANI, Arizona NIKKI BUDZINSKI, Illinois
ELI CRANE, Arizona
KEITH SELF, Texas
JEN KIGGANS, Virginia
------
Olivia Naughton, Majority Professional Staff Member
Alexis MacDonald, Minority Staff Director
LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITIES
The Women Veterans Task Force coordinated all legislative
activities through the subcommittees of the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs.
OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES
Task Force Roundtable--``Barriers to Disability Benefits for Women
Veterans''
On April 27, 2023, the Task Force held a closed-door
roundtable to address barriers to benefits for women veterans.
The purpose of the roundtable is to examine the potential
barriers to benefits that women veterans may face in the VA
disability claims process. Such topics included: outreach to
women veterans about the disability benefits available to them,
potential inequities in the claims and rating process for women
veterans, and ensuring accurate decisions for women veterans,
including those serving in special operations.
The following were in attendance: Ms. Kristina N.
Messenger, Deputy Executive Director of Operations,
Compensation Service, Veterans Benefits Administration; Ms.
Cheryl Rawls, Executive Director, Outreach, Transition, and
Economic Development, Veterans Benefits Administration; Ms.
Elizabeth Curda, Director, Education, Workforce, and Income
Security, Government Accountability Office; Ms. Naomi Mathis,
Associate National Legislative Director, Disabled American
Veterans; Ms. Kaitlynne Yancy, Associate Director, Government
Affairs, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America; Ms. Alia
Schenck, Casework Director, OEF Veteran, The Independence Fund;
Ms. Kristina Keenan, Deputy Director of National Legislative
Service, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S.; Ms. Kristen
Laha-Walsh, Government Affairs Specialist, Wounded Warrior
Project; Ms. Jax Scott, Board Member, Special Operation
Association of America; Ms. Tiffany Myrick-Woodley, Army First
Seargeant (Retired); Ms. Caitlin ``Cat'' Clason, MSN, CRNP,
WHNP-BC; and Ms. Raquel Patrick, Army Chief Warrant Officer 4
(Retired).
Task Force Roundtable--``Women Wounded Warriors''
On May 23, 2023, the Task Force held a closed-door
roundtable to examine cancer-related health issues that are
specific to women veterans. Topics included the different types
of cancer research (i.e. breast, ovarian, and cervical),
treatments, and diagnostics being done at VA and through
community care to help early detection and improve the lives of
female veterans.
The following were in attendance: Ms. Sarah Colonna, MD,
MSCI, Associate Professor, Medical Oncology, Breast Genetics,
Huntsman Cancer, Institute/Section Chief, Hematology/Oncology,
George E. Wahlen VA and Medical Director, Breast Oncology; Ms.
Susan Kirsch, MD, MPH, Deputy Assistant Under Secretary, Health
for Office of Discovery Education, and Affiliate Networks; Ms.
Rachel Ramoni, DMD, ScD, Chief Research and Development
Officer, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Kenute Myrie,
PhD, Senior Portfolio Manager for Precision Oncology; Ms. Julie
Howell, Associate Legislative Director, Paralyzed Veterans of
America; Ms. Naomi Mathis, Associate National Legislative
Director, Disabled American Veterans; Ms. Tiffany Ellett,
Director, Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Division, The
American Legion; Ms. Cassandra ``Cassie'' Ricci, Senior
Manager, Alliance Development and Federal Government Affairs,
Roche; Mr. Stan Lipkowitz, MD, PhD, Senior Investigator--
Women's Malignances Branch, National Institute of Health; Mr.
Orrin Marcella, Head of U.S. Government Affairs & Policy, GE--
HealthCare; Ms. Kathryn Schubert, MPP, CAE, Chief Executive
Officer, Society for Women's Health Research; Ms. Clara
Bodelon, PhD, MS, Staff Scientist--Integrative Tumor
Epidemiology Branch, American Cancer Society; and Ms. Anna Jo
Smith, MD, MPH, Senior Manager, Governance and Clinical
Practice, Society of Gynecologic Oncology.
Task Force Roundtable--``EO focus on Underemployment for Women
Veterans''
On June 7, 2023, the Task Force held a closed-door
roundtable to examine issues related to underemployment as it
applies to women veterans. The purpose of the roundtable was to
discuss the economic issues that uniquely affect women
veterans. Such topics included: increasing employment
opportunities for women veterans, food insecurity, and
homelessness as they relate to underemployment and mental
health for women veterans.
The following were in attendance: Mr. Anthony Love,
Principal Advisor, Intra/Inter-Agency Collaboration and
Director of Community Engagement, VHA Homeless Programs; Ms.
Lourdes Tiglao, Director, Center for Women Veterans; Ms. Regina
Yount, Assistant Director, Outreach, Transition, and Economic
Development; Ms. Cheyenna Irwin, Deputy Director, Veteran
Readiness and Employment Service; Dr. Christine Going, Acting
Senior Advisor, Food Security Office; Ms. Karla Langham, Chief
of Staff; DOL-VETS; Mr. Rick Gomez, Education and Employment
Policy Associate, The American Legion; Ms. Jennifer Goodale,
Director, Military Family and Survivor Policy, Military
Officers Association of America; Ms. Meredith M. Smith,
Government Relations Deputy Director, National Military Family
Association; Ms. Meggan Thomas, MPH, Associate Director,
National Legislative Services, Veterans of Foreign Wars; Lt.
Col. Olivia Nunn, USA (Ret), Founder and CEO, Olivia Nunn
Communications LLC. & Never Stop Serving Podcast; Ms. Sarah J.
Kelly, Senior Manager, Public Policy; D'Aniello Institute for
Veterans and Military Families; Ms. Deborah Bradbard, Senior
Research Associate, D'Aniello Institute for Veterans and
Military Families; Ms. Liza Lieberman, Vice President of
Communications, MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger; and Ms.
Christine Kurth, Director, Legislative Affairs, T-Mobile.
Task Force Roundtable--``Facility Security for Women Veterans''
On July 13, 2023, the Task Force held a closed-door
roundtable to examine issues related to safety and security in
VA Medical Centers as it applies to women veterans. The purpose
of the roundtable was to discuss the security issues that
uniquely affect women veterans. Such topics included: safety
for women at VA medical centers (VAMC) and women's health
clinics; recruitment, retention, and training programs for law
enforcement and health care providers; and, accurately
reporting and preventing sexual assault and sexual harassment
on VAMC campuses.
The following were in attendance:
Ms. Robyn Begley, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, AHA Senior Vice
President and Chief Nursing Officer, AONL Chief Executive
Officer, American Hospital Association; Tracy Fuller,
President, Government Services, Allied Universal; Charles
Bohnenberger, Senior Vice President, Government Services,
Allied Universal; Lindsay Church, Executive Director, Minority
Veterans of America; Alyssa Hundrup, Director, Health Care,
U.S. Government Accountability Office; Edward J. Dubois Chief,
Law Enforcement Oversight and Criminal Investigations Division
Office of Security and Law Enforcement, VA; Chelsea Cosby
Morgan, MD Acting Director, Comprehensive Health, Office of
Women's Health, VHA; Deborah K. McCallum, Senior Advisor to the
Deputy Assistant Secretary, Office of Resolution Management,
Diversity, and Inclusion, VA; Katheryne E. Hoover, Special
Agent, Law Enforcement Oversight and Criminal Investigations
Division, Office of Security and Law Enforcement; Lelia
Jackson, MBA, MS, FAC-P/PM Director, VHA Assault and Harassment
Prevention Program Department of Veterans Affairs; Troy Brown,
Senior Security Officer, VA.
Task Force Roundtable--``Support Services for Women Veterans''
On Thursday, August 23, 2023, at Meyera E. Oberndorf
Central Library in Virginia Beach, VA, the Women's Veteran Task
Force held a closed-door roundtable to examine issues related
to Support Services for Women Veterans. The purpose of the
roundtable was to discuss services for women veterans after
they leave the military starting on Day 1. Such topics included
TAP programs and other economic assistance and geriatric care.
The following were in attendance: Mr. Fred Kinkin, the
American Legion; Kathy Owens, Former Navy Pilot, President
Beach Development Group; Lois Thompson, Former Army,
Lieutenant, Virgina Beach Sherriff's Department; Nanette
Miller, Career Navy; Kerri Furey, Navy Veteran, ForKids Inc,
Defense Information School.
Task Force Roundtable--``Women in Tech''
On Thursday, September 28, 2023, the Task Force met for a
closed-door roundtable to discuss women veterans in technology
careers. Specifically, the Task Force examined the barriers and
resources available to women veterans to enter and advance in
technology careers, whether as entrepreneurs or employees, in
the private or public sector. The roundtable dialogue was
designed to convene knowledgeable and interested parties in a
single forum where challenges, opportunities, and potential
policy changes were discussed.
The following were in attendance: Ms. Barbara Ashe,
President, Montgomery County Chamber Community Foundation; Ms.
Julie Hoyte, MPA, BSN, RT(R), CSM, Chief Executive Officer,
Health Information Technology Solutions; Ms. Katherine Webster,
Founder & CEO, VetsinTech; Ms. Sharon Grimm, Chief Executive
Officer, Snowbird Agility.
APPENDIX I: LEGISLATION THAT PASSED THE HOUSE
BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE
THAT PASSED THE HOUSE
03/07/2023: H.R. 502--To amend title 38, United States
Code, to ensure that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs repays
members of the Armed Forces for certain contributions made by
such members towards Post-9/11 Educational Assistance, and for
other purposes.
03/07/2023: H.R. 1226--Wounded Warrior Access Act, To amend
title 38, United States Code, to allow for the electronic
request of certain records, and for other purposes.
03/08/2023: H.R. 753--VA COST SAVINGS Enhancements Act, To
direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to use on-site
regulated medical waste treatment systems at certain Department
of Veterans Affairs facilities, and for other purposes.
04/20/2023: H.R. 815--Making emergency supplemental
appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024,
and for other purposes, To amend title 38, United States Code,
to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of
veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment
furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for
other purposes.
05/22/2023: H.R. 366--Korean American VALOR Act, To amend
title 38, United States Code, to treat certain individuals who
served in Vietnam as a member of the armed forces of the
Republic of Korea as a veteran of the Armed Forces of the
United States for purposes of the provision of health care by
the Department of Veterans Affairs.
05/24/2023: H.R. 1669--VET-TEC Authorization Act of 2023,
To amend title 38, United States Code, to make permanent the
high technology pilot program of the Department of Veterans
Affairs, and for other purposes.
05/31/2023: H.R. 3746--Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023,
To provide for a responsible increase to the debt ceiling.
06/20/2023: H.R. 3672--To designate the clinic of the
Department of Veterans Affairs in Indian River, Michigan, as
the ``Pfc. Justin T. Paton Department of Veterans Affairs
Clinic''.
09/18/2023: H.R. 3981--Isakson-Roe Education Oversight
Expansion Act, To amend title 38, United States Code, to
improve the methods by which the Secretary of Veterans Affairs
conducts oversight of certain educational institutions, and for
other purposes.
09/20/2023: H.R. 1530--Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of
2023, To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the
requirement to publish disability benefit questionnaire forms
of Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.
11/13/2023: H.R. 593--To rename the Department of Veterans
Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in Hinesville,
Georgia, as the ``John Gibson, Dan James, William Sapp, and
Frankie Smiley VA Clinic''.
11/13/2023: H. Res. 848--Encouraging the connecting of
members of the Armed Forces in the United States to support
structures necessary to transition from the battlefield.
12/04/2023: H.R. 3581--COPE Act, To amend title 38, United
States Code, to modify the family caregiver program of the
Department of Veterans Affairs to include services related to
mental health and neurological disorders, and for other
purposes.
12/05/2023: H.R. 542--Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act of 2023,
To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve certain
programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs for home and
community based services for veterans, and for other purposes.
12/05/2023: H.R. 3848--Housing our Military Veterans
Effectively Act of 2023, To make certain improvements in the
laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs relating
to homelessness, and for other purposes.
04/29/2024: EXPLORE Act, To improve recreation
opportunities on, and facilitate greater access to, Federal
public land, and for other purposes.
04/29/2024: H.R. 3722--Daniel J. Harvey, Jr. and Adam
Lambert Improving Servicemember Transition to Reduce Veteran
Suicide Act, To require a pilot program on activities under the
pre- separation transition process of members of the Armed
Forces for a reduction in suicide among veterans, and for other
purposes.
04/29/2024: H.R. 5194--VETT Act, To amend title 38, United
States Code, to improve the processes to approve programs of
education for purposes of the educational assistance programs
of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.
04/30/2024: H.R. 1767--To amend title 38, United States
Code, to provide that educational assistance paid under
Department of Veterans Affairs educational assistance programs
to an individual who pursued a program or course of education
that was suspended or terminated for certain reasons shall not
be charged against the entitlement of the individual, and for
other purposes.
04/30/2024: H.R. 3738--Veterans Economic Opportunity and
Transition Administration Act, To amend title 38, United States
Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs the
Veterans Economic Opportunity and Transition Administration,
and for other purposes.
04/30/2024: H.R. 4016--Veteran Fraud Reimbursement Act, To
amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the repayment by
the Secretary of Veterans Affairs of benefits misused by a
fiduciary.
07/22/2024: H.R. 4136--U.S. Congressman Sam Johnson
Memorial VA Clinic Act, To name the Department of Veterans
Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in Plano, Texas, as
the ``U.S. Congressman Sam Johnson Memorial VA Clinic''.
07/22/2024: H.R. 7333--To name the Department of Veterans
Affairs medical center in West Palm Beach, Florida, as the
``Thomas H. Corey VA Medical Center''.
09/17/2024: H.R. 2911--Fairness for Servicemembers and
their Families Act of 2024, To amend title 38, United States
Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to
periodically review the automatic maximum coverage under the
Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program and the Veterans'
Group Life Insurance program, and for other purposes.
09/17/2024: H.R. 4190--Restoring Benefits to Defrauded
Veterans Act, To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct
the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to repay the estates of
deceased beneficiaries for certain benefits paid by the
Secretary and misused by fiduciaries of such beneficiaries.
09/17/2024: H.R. 4424--Vietnam Veterans Liver Fluke Cancer
Study Act, To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to study
and report on the prevalence of cholangiocarcinoma in veterans
who served in the Vietnam theater of operations during the
Vietnam era, and for other purposes.
09/17/2024: H.R. 5464--To name the Department of Veterans
Affairs community-based clinic in Guntersville, Alabama, as the
``Colonel Ola Lee Mize Department of Veterans Affairs Clinic''.
09/17/2024: H.R. 6324--Fiscal Year 2024 Veterans Affairs
Major Medical Facility Authorization Act, To authorize major
medical facility projects for the Department of Veterans
Affairs for fiscal year 2024, and for other purposes.
09/17/2024: H.R. 7100--Prioritizing Veterans' Survivors
Act, To amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify the
organization of the Office of Survivors Assistance of the
Department of Veterans Affairs.
09/17/2024: H.R. 7342--Veterans Accessibility Advisory
Committee Act of 2024, To establish the Veterans Advisory
Committee on Equal Access, and for other purposes.
09/17/2024: H.R. 7777--Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-
Living Adjustment Act of 2024, To increase, effective as of
December 1, 2024, the rates of compensation for veterans with
service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and
indemnity compensation for the survivors of certain disabled
veterans, and for other purposes.
09/17/2024: H.R. 7816--Clear Communication for Veterans
Claims Act, To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to seek
to enter into an agreement with a federally funded research and
development center for an assessment of notice letters that the
Secretary sends to claimants for benefits under laws
administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes.
09/25/2024: H.R. 522--Deliver for Veterans Act, To amend
title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of
Veterans Affairs to provide or assist in providing a vehicle
adapted for operation by disabled individuals to certain
eligible persons, to pay expenses associated with the delivery
of such vehicle, and for other purposes.
09/25/2024: H.R. 6656--Stuck on Hold Act, To direct the
Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the Commissioner of Social
Security to implement automated systems with callback
functionality for each customer service telephone line of the
Department of Veterans Affairs and the Social Security
Administration, respectively, and for other purposes.
09/25/2024: H.R. 7323--Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserves
Tuition Fairness Act of 2024, Amend title 38, United States
Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to disapprove
courses of education offered by a public institution of higher
learning that does not charge the in- State tuition rate to a
veteran using certain educational assistance under title 10 of
such Code, and for other purposes.
11/18/2024: H.R. 7653--VERY Act of 2024, To amend title 38,
United States Code, to update certain terminology regarding
veteran employment.
11/18/2024: H.R. 8371--Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century
Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act, To make
certain improvements in the laws administered by the Secretary
of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.
APPENDIX II: PUBLIC LAWS ENACTED
Public Law 118-20: H.R. 366--Korean American Valor Act, To
amend title 38, United States Code, to treat certain
individuals who served in Vietnam as a member of the armed
forces of the Republic of Korea as a veteran of the Armed
Forces of the United States for purposes of the provision of
health care by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Public Law 118-61: H.R. 593--To rename the Department of
Veterans Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in
Hinesville, Georgia, as the ``John Gibson, Dan James, William
Sapp, and Frankie Smiley VA Clinic''.
Public Law 118-50: H.R. 815--Making emergency supplemental
appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024,
and for other purposes, To amend title 38, United States Code,
to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of
veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment
furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for
other purposes.
Public Law 118-21: H.R. 1226--Wounded Warrior Access Act,
To amend title 38, United States Code, to allow for the
electronic request of certain records, and for other purposes.
Public Law 118-12: H.R. 3672--To designate the clinic of
the Department of Veterans Affairs in Indian River, Michigan,
as the ``Pfc. Justin T. Paton Department of Veterans Affairs
Clinic''.
Public Law 118-5: H.R. 3746--Fiscal Responsibility Act of
2023, To provide for a responsible increase to the debt
ceiling.
Public Law 118-114: H.R. 4190--Restoring Benefits to
Defrauded Veterans Act, To amend title 38, United States Code,
to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to repay the
estates of deceased beneficiaries for certain benefits paid by
the Secretary and misused by fiduciaries of such beneficiaries.
Public Law 118-114: H.R. 5464--To name the Department of
Veterans Affairs community based outpatient clinic in
Guntersville, Alabama, as the ``Colonel Ola Lee Mize Department
of Veterans Affairs Clinic''.
Public Law 118-124: H.R. 6324--Fiscal Year 2024 Veterans
Affairs Major Medical Facility Authorization Act, To authorize
major medical facility projects for the Department of Veterans
Affairs for fiscal year 2024, and for other purposes.
Public Law 118-128: H.R. 7333--To name the Department of
Veterans Affairs medical center in West Palm Beach, Florida, as
the ``Thomas H. Corey VA Medical Center''.
Public Law 118-130: H.R. 7777--Veterans' Compensation Cost-
of-Living Adjustment Act of 2024, To increase, effective as of
December 1, 2024, the rates of compensation for veterans with
service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and
indemnity compensation for the survivors of certain disabled
veterans, and for other purposes.
APPENDIX III: HEARINGS HELD PURSUANT TO
CLAUSES 2(n),(o), or (p) of RULE XI
Rule 2(n) Each standing committee, or subcommittee thereof, shall hold
at least one hearing during each 120-day period following the
establishment of the Committee on the topic of waste, fraud,
abuse or mismanagement in Government programs which that
Committee may authorize. The hearing shall focus on the most
egregious instances of waste, fraud, abuse or mismanagement as
documented by any report the Committee has received from a
Federal Office of the Inspector General or the Comptroller
General of the United States.
Full Committee Hearing--``Building an Accountable VA: Applying Lessons
Learned to Drive Future Success''
On February 28, 2023, the Full Committee met in open
session to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the
consequences of disengaged leadership, the implementation and
state of major U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
programs, and how Congressional oversight would hold VA
accountable to improve care and benefits for veterans.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: the Honorable Michael Missal, Inspector General,
Office of the Inspector General, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; the Honorable Gene Dodaro, Comptroller General of the
United States, Government Accountability Office; the Honorable
Shereef Elnahal, M.D., Under Secretary for Health, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Michael Frueh, Principal
Deputy Under Secretary for Benefits, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; and the Honorable Matthew Quinn, Under
Secretary for Memorial Affairs, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs.
Joint Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``VHA Recruitment and Retention:
Is Bureaucracy Holding Back a Quality Workforce?''
On May 17, 2023, the Subcommittees on Oversight and
Investigations and Health met in open session to conduct an
oversight hearing to examine the U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs' (VA's) and Veterans Health Administration's (VHA's)
workforce. The subcommittees looked at VA's recruitment,
retention, and relocation efforts over the past year, with
particular emphasis on legislative authorities that were
enacted in the 117th Congress. The hearing also provided the
subcommittees an opportunity to examine VHA's organizational
``modernization'' of its Human Resource functions and its
impact on the ability to adequately support Medical Center
needs.Another goal of the hearing was to look at the
effectiveness of VHA in retaining its workforce, to include
equitable implementation of educational incentives and other
benefits unique to federal employment.
There were two witness panels. The following witnesses
testified on the first panel: Ms. Tracey Therit, Chief Human
Capital Officer, Human Resources Administration/Operations,
Security and Preparedness, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs;
Ms. Jessica Bonjorni, MBA, PMP, SPHR, Chief of Human Capital
Management, Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; and Ms. Sharon Silas, Director of Health Care
Team, Government Accountability Office.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Ms.
Mary Jane ``MJ'' Burke, First Executive Vice President, AFGE
National VA Council; Dr. Robyn Begley, DNP, RN, NEA BC, FAAN,
Senior Vice President of Workforce, American Hospital
Association; Mr. Will Morse, Corporate Vice President of
Solution Design and Sales, AMN Healthcare; and Ms. Kelley
Saindon, DNP, RN NE-BC, CHPN, Chairman of the Legislative
Committee, Nurses Organization of Veterans Affairs.
Full Committee Hearing--``COVID-19 Supplemental Funding: Did it Protect
and Improve Veteran Care?''
On May 23, 2023, the Full Committee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine how the U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs spent the roughly $36.6 billion in combined
supplemental appropriations they received in the Families First
Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), the Coronavirus Aid, Relief,
and Economic Security (CARES) Act, and the American Rescue Plan
(ARP) Act. The Committee questioned whether VA used the funding
effectively to protect and improve veteran care.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Ms. Laura Duke, Chief Financial Officer, Veterans
Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr.
Robert McDivitt, Network Director, VISN 23, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; the Honorable Michael Missal, Inspector
General, Office of Inspect General, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; and Ms. Whitney Bell, President, National Association
of State Veterans Homes.
Subcommittee on Disability and Memorial Affairs Oversight Hearing--``VA
Disability Exams: Are Veterans Receiving Quality Services?''
On July 27, 2023, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to review the U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs (VA) oversight of disability exams conducted
by contractors as well as Veterans Health Administration
medical examiners. Other hearing topics included: exam
scheduling, information technology systems for exams, examiner
training, addressing underperforming examiners, and the
sufficiency of VA's process to determine the quality,
timeliness, and veteran satisfaction of disability exams. The
Subcommittee also examined the VA's progress implementing the
recommendations from several U.S. Government Accountability
Office (GAO) reports.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Mr. Jeffrey London, Executive Director, Medical
Disability Examination Office, Veterans Benefits
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms.
Jacqueline Imboden, Assistant Director, Procedures &
Interagency/MilPay, Compensation Service, Veterans Benefits
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr.
Christopher Parker, Associate Executive Director, Office of
Acquisitions, Logistics and Construction, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Dr. Henry Bridges, Senior Medical Officer for
the Office of Disability and Medical Assessment, (VHA/11CS
DMA), U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Elizabeth Curda,
Director, Education, Workforce, and Income Security, U.S.
Government Accountability Office; and Mr. Stephen Bracci,
Director, Claims and Medical Exams Inspection Division, Office
of Audits and Evaluations, Office of Inspector General, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Background Checks: Are VA's HR
Failures Risking Drug Abuse and Veteran Harm?''
On December 6, 2023, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations met in open session to conduct an oversight
hearing to examine VA's personnel suitability program
governance with a particular focus on how VA ensures employees
with felony drug convictions are properly identified.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Ms. Jessica Bonjoni, Chief, Human Capital
Management, Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Mr. Shawn Steele, Director of the Healthcare
Infrastructure Division, Office of Inspector General, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Seto Bagdoyan, Director for
Audit Services, Forensic Audits & Investigative Service, U.S.
Government Accountability Office; and Mr. Daniel Galik,
Executive Director for Identity Credential and Access
Management, Office of Human Resources and Administration/
Operations, Security and Preparedness, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``VA Revolving Funds: Are Veterans
Being Shortchanged?''
On January 17, 2024, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations met in open session to conduct an oversight
hearing to examine VA's two large revolving funds, the
Franchise Fund and the Supply Fund, that provide services to VA
offices and other agencies on a fee-for-service basis.
Together, they have assets exceeding $1.7 billion. The
Subcommittee discovered that the Supply Fund operated at a loss
in fiscal year 2023 and individual enterprises within the
Franchise Fund routinely operate at a loss. The Subcommittee
sought to question whether the Financial Services Center was
best equipped to process payments for veterans' community care,
most of which were transferred to the VA Office of Integrated
Veteran Care when the Biden administration reorganized
community care in 2021.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Ms. Teresa Riffel, Deputy Assistant Secretary for
Financial Management Business Transformation, Financial
Management Business Transformation Service, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Mr. Leroy Larkins, Executive Director, Office
of Revolving Funds, Office of Management, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Mr. Phillip Christy, Deputy Executive
Director, Office of Acquisition, Logistics, and Construction,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Ms. Julie Matta,
Deputy General Counsel, U.S. Government Accountability Office.
Full Committee Hearing--``VA's HR Office: Did Leaders Ignore and
Perpetuate Sexual Harassment?''
On February 14, 2024, the Full Committee met in open
session to conduct an oversight hearing to examine sexual
harassment and misconduct allegations within the Office of
Resolution Management, Diversity & Inclusion (ORMDI), an office
under the Assistant Secretary for Human Resources and
Administration/Operations, Security and Preparedness (HRA/OSP).
Chairman Bost wrote to the VA making the Secretary aware of
these allegations. The Committee's investigation focused on the
information VA was compelled to produce under the January 12th
subpoena, and during the hearing, the Committee examined when
VA leaders first became aware of these allegations and what
they did about them.
There were two witness panels. The following witness
testified on the first panel: the Honorable Denis McDonough,
Secretary, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Ms.
Cassandra Law, Assistant Secretary, Human Resources and
Administration/Operations, Security and Preparedness, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr. Bruce Gipe, Acting
Assistant Secretary, Office of Accountability and Whistleblower
Protection, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses were invited to the second panel
but did not show up to testify: Mr. Archie Davis, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Gary Richardson, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Gina Grosso; and Mr. Harvey
Johnson.
Full Committee Hearing--``Bonus Blunder: Examining VA's Improper
Decision to Award Senior Executives Millions in Incentives''
On June 4, 2024, the Full Committee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine the Department of
Veterans Affairs (VA) Office of Inspector General (OIG) report
detailing its investigation into critical skill incentive (CSI)
bonuses made to nearly ever career senior executive service
(SES) employee in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and
Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA).
There were two witness panels. The following witness
testified on the first panel: The Honorable Michael J. Missal,
Inspector General, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witness testified on the second panel: The
Honorable Denis R. McDonough, Secretary, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs.
Full Committee Hearing--``Accountable of Absent? Examining VA
Leadership Under the Biden-Harris Administration''
On September 10, 2024, the Full Committee met in open
session to conduct an oversight hearing to examine where
accountability is lacking within the Department of Veterans
Affairs (VA), which was found though oversight travel,
investigations, and whistleblower discussions. Members had the
opportunity to pose questions to VA Inspector General, the
Under Secretary for Health, and the Under Secretary for
Benefits to examine how VA leaders would take accountability
for their own conduct and address substantiated and alleged
misconduct.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: The Honorable Dr. Shereef Elnahal, Under Secretary
for Health, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; The Honorable
Joshua Jacobs, Under Secretary for Benefits, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Mr. Edward J. Murray, Acting Assistant
Secretary for Management and Chief Financial Officer, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; and The Honorable Michael J.
Missal, Inspector General, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Mission Transition: Evaluating Mental
Health Support Programs for Separating Servicemembers''
On September 10, 2024, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations met in open session to conduct an oversight
hearing to focus on the effectiveness of current mental health
care programs during the transition from military to civilian
life. Additionally, the Subcommittee assessed data capabilities
and explored strategies for VA, DOL, and DOD to better identify
and connect with veterans in need of mental health resources.
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: Ms. Melissa Cohen, Executive Director,
Outreach Transition, and Economic Development, Veterans
Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs;
Ms. Jill Debord, Executive Director, Care Management and Social
Work, Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of
Veterans Affairs; Ms. Susan Orsega, Deputy Assistant Secretary
of Defense for Health Services Policy and Oversight, U.S.
Department of Defense; Ms. Alyssa Hundrup, Director of Health
Care, Government Accountability Office; and Mr. James
Rodriguez, Assistant Secretary for Veterans' Employment and
Training Service, U.S. Department of Labor.
Subcommittee on Technology Modernization Oversight Hearing--``VA's Open
Cash Register: Fraud, Waste, Abuse, and Revenue Operations''
On September 19, 2024, the Subcommittee on Technology
Modernization met in open session to conduct an oversight
hearing to examine the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA)
Program Integrity Tool (PIT), which is a key system used to
collect payments from insurance companies and veterans for non-
service connected community care as well as to prevent waste,
fraud, and abuse when VA pays community care providers' claims.
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: the Honorable Kurt DelBene, Assistant
Secretary for Information and Technology and Chief Information
Office, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Cherri Waters,
Executive Director, Health Portfolio, Office of Information and
Technology, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Laura
Duke, Chief Financial Officer, Veterans Health Administration,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Ms. Tracy Davis-Bradley,
Ph.D., Chief Integrity and Compliance Officer, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Ms.
Jennifer McDonald, Ph.D., Director, Community Care Division,
Office of Inspector General, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``VA Accountability: What has Happened
to Hampton?''
On September 24, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the alleged and
substantiated misconduct within the Department of Veterans
Affairs (VA) Hampton Medical Center (Hampton VA).
Whistleblowers alleged the Hampton VA Chief of Surgery was a
poor leader who retaliated against those who reported patient
safety concerns and failed to act against medical professionals
who were clinically inept. Whistleblowers also alleged Hampton
VA leadership did not adequately address the whistleblowers'
concerns and poorly managed the facility. The whistleblowers
alleged this ineffective leadership led to internal employee
disputes, workplace harassment, and facility cleanliness
issues. As a result, many providers have left the facility.
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: Mr. Paul S. Crews, Veterans Integrated
Services Network 6 Director, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Mr. Frederick Kotler, MD, Interim Medical Inspector,
Office of the Medical Inspector, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Mr. Walt C. Dannenberg, Acting Executive Director, VA
Hampton Health Care, U.S. Department pf Veterans Affairs; and
Dr. Jennifer Baptiste, Deputy Assistant Inspector General for
Healthcare Inspections, Office of Inspector General, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``Digital GI Bill in Disarray: Holding
the Biden-Harris Administration Accountable for VA's Costly
Mismanagement''
On September 26, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs' (VA) progress at retiring antiquated
legacy IT systems and implementing the Digital G.I. Bill IT
system, which aims to streamline the processing of education
benefits under the G.I. Bill. The hearing focused on the report
from the Office of Inspector General (OIG) highlighting issues
with the planning, expectations, and execution of the Digital
GI Bill (DGIB) project. The hearing also reviewed the
recommendations of the Office of the Inspector General to
improve the program and ideas to make the DGIB program more
efficient for veterans.
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: Mr. Ronald Burke, Undersecretary for
Policy and Oversight, Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Robert Orifici, Executive
Director, Benefits and Memorial Services, Office of Information
and Technology, Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Joseph Garcia, Executive
Director, Education Services, Veterans Benefits Administration,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Nicholas Dahl, Deputy
Assistant Inspector General, Management and Administration,
Office of the Inspector General, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; and Mr. Justin Parke, Managing Director, DGIB Program
Manager, Accenture Federal Services.
Rule 2(p) Each standing committee, or subcommittee thereof, shall hold
at least one hearing on issues raised by reports issued by the
Comptroller General of the United States indicating that
federal programs or operations that the Committee may authorize
are at high risk for waste, fraud, and mismanagement, known as
the ``high risk list'' or the ``high risk series.''
Subcommittee on Technology Modernization Oversight Hearing:--``VA
Information Technology Contracting: Challenges in Consolidation
of Competition and Conflict of Interest''
On May 24, 2023, the Subcommittee on Technology
Modernization met in open session to conduct an oversight
hearing to examine trends in the U.S. Department of Veterans'
Affairs (VA) information technology contracting including
increasing spending, a consolidating contractor/supplier base,
and procurement methods that limit the pool of eligible
companies. The Subcommittee also considered VA's management of
organizational conflicts of interest among current and
prospective contractors.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Ms. Shelby Oakley, Director, Contracting and
National Security Acquisitions, U.S. Government Accountability
Office; and Ms. Hana Schank, Senior Advisor, New America.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``VA Procurement: Made in America''
On September 20, 2023, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations met in open session to conduct an oversight
hearing to examine how VA's procurement practices and the
reasons why more progress has not been made. The subcommittee
sought to investigate why very little appeared to have been
accomplished to boost domestic purchases during the Biden
Administration, particularly in the U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs, which is the second largest buyer in the federal
government.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Mr. Michael D. Parrish, Principal Executive Director
and Chief Acquisition Officer, Office of Acquisition,
Logistics, and Construction, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Dr. Angela Billups, Executive Director and Senior
Procurement Executive, Office of Acquisition, Logistics, and
Construction, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Mr. Andrew
Centineo, Executive Director for Procurement and Logistics,
Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; and Dr. Thomas Emmendorfer, Executive Director for
Pharmacy Benefits Management Services, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Subcommittee Oversight Hearing--``VA Supply Chain Modernization: Ready
for Prime Time?''
On April 9, 2024, the Subcommittee met in open session to
conduct an oversight hearing to examine Supply Chain
Modernization project when VA ignored an ultimatum in March
2024 to provide the information. The Subcommittee examined the
Department of Veterans Affairs plan to award a series of
contracts, potentially worth hundreds of millions or billions
of dollars, for a new supply chain management IT system.
There was one witness panel. The following witnesses
testified: Mr. Michael D. Parrish, Chief Acquisition Officer
and Principal Executive Director, Office of Acquisition,
Logistics, and Construction, U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs; Mr. Ronald Miller, Ph.D., Deputy Assistant Under
Secretary for Health for Support, Veterans Health
Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Mr.
Dewaine Beard, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Veterans
Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Rule 2(o) Each standing committee, or subcommittee thereof, shall hold
at least one hearing in any session in which the Committee has
received disclaimers of agency financial statements from
auditors of any federal agency that the Committee may authorize
to hear testimony on such disclaimers from representatives of
such agency.
Full Committee Hearing--``U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Budget
Request for Fiscal Years 2025 and 2026''
On April 11, 2024, the Full Committee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to consider President Biden's
budget request for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for
fiscal years 2025 and 2026. The U.S. Department of Veterans
Affairs requested $369.3 billion for fiscal year 2025, which is
a $41.8 billion increase over FY 2024 in mandatory spending and
a $8.9 billion decrease over FY 2024 in discretionary spending.
There were two witness panels. The following witness
testified on the first panel: The Honorable Denis McDonough,
Secretary, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following witnesses testified on the second panel: Mr.
Roscoe Butler, Senior Health Policy Advisor, Paralyzed Veterans
of America; Mr. Shane Liermann, Deputy National Legislative
Director, Disabled American Veterans; and Mr. Patrick Murray,
National Legislative Service Director, Veterans of Foreign
Wars.
Full Committee Hearing--``Fact and Fiction: Getting to the Bottom of
the VA Budget Shortfall''
On December 5, 2024, the Full Committee met in open session
to conduct an oversight hearing to examine the circumstances
surrounding the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) purported
fiscal year (FY) 2024 benefits budget shortfall and FY 2025
health care budget shortfall.
There was one witness panel for this hearing. The following
witnesses testified: the Honorable Shereef Elnahal, M.D., Under
Secretary for Health, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; the
Honorable Joshua Jacobs, Under Secretary for Benefits, Veterans
Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs;
Mr. Edward Murray, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for
Management and Deputy Chief Financial Officer; Ms. Laura Duke,
Chief Financial Officer for Veterans Health Administration,
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; and Ms. Lasheeco Graham,
Chief Financial Officer, Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs.
APPENDIX IV: MESSAGES FROM THE PRESIDENT AND
OTHER EXECUTIVE BRANCH COMMUNICATIONS
Executive Communication 164--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--01/25/2023
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Office of General
Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the
Department's interim final rule--Reimbursement of Emergent
Suicide Care (RIN: 2900-AR50) received January 19, 2023,
pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section
251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communication 165--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--01/25/2023
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Office of the
General Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting
the Department's final rule--Modifications of Approval
Requirements for Courses Designed to Prepare Individuals for
Licensure or Certifications (RIN: 2900-AQ91) received January
19, 2023, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-
121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communication 344--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--02/02/2023
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Office of General
Counsel (00REG), Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting
the Department's final rule--Statutory Increase in Operations
and Maintenance Grant Funding (RIN: 2900-AR71) received January
31, 2023, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-
121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communication 415--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--02/14/2023
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Office of General
Counsel (00REG), Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting
the Department's final rule--VA Acquisition Regulation:
Acquisition of Information Technology; and Other Contracts for
Goods and Services Involving Information, VA Sensitive
Information, and Information Security; and Liquidated Damages
Requirements for Data Breach (RIN: 2900-AQ41) received February
2, 2023, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121,
section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans'
Affairs.
Executive Communication 526--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--03/01/2023
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Office of General
Counsel (00REG), Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting
the Department's final rule--Change in Rates VA Pays for
Special Modes of Transportation (RIN: 2900-AP89) received
February 21, 2023, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public
Law 104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communication 548--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--03/03/2023
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Office of General
Counsel (00REG), Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting
the Department's Major final rule--Reimbursement for Emergency
Treatment (RIN: 2900-AQ08) received February 28, 2023, pursuant
to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110
Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communication 750--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--04/13/2023
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Department of
Veterans Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule
Updating Presumptive Radiation Locations based on the PACT Act
(RIN: 2900-AR74) received March 16, 2023, pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868);
to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communication 751--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--04/13/2023
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Department of
Veterans Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule
Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury
Protection Program (RIN: 2900-AQ53) received March 16, 2023,
pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section
251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communication 880--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--05/05/2023
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Office of General
Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the
Department's interim final rule--Exceptions to Applying the
Bilateral Factor in VA Disability Calculations (RIN: 2900-AR51)
received May 2, 2023, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public
Law 104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 881--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--05/05/
2023
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Office of General
Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the
Department's final rule--Medical Benefits Package; Chiropractic
Services (RIN: 2900-AQ70) received May 2, 2023, pursuant to 5
U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110
Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 1048--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--05/25/
2023
A letter from the National Adjutant, Chief Executive
Officer, Disabled American Veterans, transmitting the reports
and proceedings of the 2022 National Convention of Disabled
American Veterans, held in Orlando, Florida, August 6-9, 2022,
pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1332; Public Law 90-620, Oct. 22, 1968
(as amended by Public Law 105-225, section 3); (112 Stat.
1498); (H. Doc. No. 118-44); to the Committee on Veterans'
Affairs and ordered to be printed.
Executive Communications 1116--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--06/06/
2023
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Office of the
General Counsel (00REG), Department of Veterans Affairs,
transmitting the Department's final rule--Collection or
Recovery by VA for Humanitarian Care or Services and for
Certain Other Care and Services (RIN: 2900-AQ58) received May
25, 2023, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-
121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 1454--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--07/24/
2023
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Department of
Veterans Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule--
Allowance for Caskets and Urns for Unclaimed Remains of
Veterans (RIN: 2900-AR36(F)) received July 10, 2023, pursuant
to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110
Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 1586--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--08/08/
2023
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Department of
Veterans Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule--
Names for National Cemeteries and Features (RIN: 2900-AR81(F))
received July 24, 2023, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A);
Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the
Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 1620--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--08/08/
2023
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Department of
Veterans Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule--VA
Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Nomenclature Change
for Position Title--Revision (RIN: 2900-AQ11(F)) received July
24, 2023, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-
121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs.
Memorial 56--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--09/01/2023
The SPEAKER presented a memorial of the Senate of the State
of California, relative to Senate Joint Resolution No. 4,
urging the Congress to provide funding for the ongoing
operation of satellite VHA medical clinics located on or near
California veterans' home campuses; to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communication 1830--House Foreign Affairs and 4 more
committees including the Committee on Veterans' Affairs--09/08/
2023
A letter from the Secretary, Department of the Interior,
transmitting proposed legislation to provide mandatory
appropriations and necessary authorities to carry out
agreements related to the Compacts of Free Association between
the Government of the United States of America and the
Governments of the three Freely Associated States (FAS)--the
Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), the Republic of the
Marshall Islands (RMI), and the Republic of Palau (Palau);
jointly to the Committees on Foreign Affairs, the Judiciary,
Natural Resources, Veterans' Affairs, and Education and the
Workforce.
Executive Communications 1958--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--09/28/
2023
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Office of General
Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the
Department's final rule--Persons Eligible for Burial (RIN:
2900-AR80(F)) received September 15, 2023, pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868);
to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Memorial 69--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--09/28/2023
The SPEAKER presented a memorial of the State of Louisiana
relative to House Concurrent Resolution No. 12, to memorialize
the United States Congress to take such actions as are
necessary to establish the ``Agent Orange Veterans Service
Medal'' to commemorate the service and sacrifice of veterans
who were exposed to the Agency Orange herbicide during the
Vietnam War from 1961 to 1971; to the Committee on Veterans'
Affairs.
Executive Communication 1972--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--09/30/
2023
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Office of the
General Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting
the Department's Major final rule--Presumptive Service
Connection for Respiratory Conditions Due to Exposure to Fine
Particulate Matter [RIN: 2900-AR25] received September 11,
2023, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121,
section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans'
Affairs.
Memorial 79--House Armed Services and House Committee on Veterans'
Affairs--10/03/2023
The SPEAKER presented a memorial of the House of
Representatives of the State of Michigan, relative to House
Concurrent Resolution No. 5, urging the United States Congress,
Department of Defense, and Department of Veterans Affairs to
prioritize research and investment in non-technology treatment
options for servicemembers and veterans who have psychological
trauma as a result of military service; jointly to the
Committees on Armed Services and Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communication 2484--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--12/05/
2023
A letter from the Regulations Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Office of the
General Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting
the Department's final rule--VA Pilot Program on Graduate
Medical Education and Residency (RIN: 2900-AR01) received
November 29, 2023, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public
Law 104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communication 2576--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--12/15/
2023
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulations Policy and Management, Office of General
Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the
Department's final rule--Payments Under State Home Care
Agreements for Nursing Home Care (RIN: 2900-AR62) received
December 5, 2023, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law
104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communication 2584--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--12/19/
2023
A letter from the Adjutant General, Veterans Of Foreign
Wars, transmitting the proceedings of the 123rd National
Convention of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United
States, held in Kansas City, Missouri, July 16-21, 2023,
pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1332; Public Law 90-620, Oct. 22, 1968
(as amended by Public Law 105-225, section 3); (112 Stat.
1498); (H. Doc. No. 118-91); to the Committee on Veterans'
Affairs and ordered to be printed.
Executive Communication 2794--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--12/29/
2023
A letter from the Regulations Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, OGC, Office of
Regulation Policy and Management, Department of Veterans
Affairs, transmitting the Department's Major final rule--
Reevaluation of Claims for Dependency and Indemnity
Compensation (RIN: 2900-AR76) received December 5, 2023,
pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section
251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communication 3087--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--02/07/
2024
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Office of General
Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the
Department's final rule--85/15 Rule Calculations, Waiver
Criteria, and Reports [RIN: 2900-AR56] received January 22,
2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121,
section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans'
Affairs.
Petition 10--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--02/14/2024
The Speaker presented a petition of the Legislature of
Guam, relative to Resolution No. 29-37, requesting for the U.S.
Congress to appropriate monies for Guam non-military residents
who were exposed to Agent Orange and who are suffering from
ailments caused by exposure to Agent Orange; to the Committee
on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 3378--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--03/11/
2024
A letter from the Legislative Director, Legislative
Division, American Legion, transmitting The American Legion's
102nd Annual Report, The American Legion's Proceedings Of The
102nd Annual National Convention, And The American Legion's
Proceedings Of The 103rd Annual National Convention; (H. Doc.
No. 118-115); to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs and ordered
to be printed.
Executive Communications 3379--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--03/11/
2024
A letter from the Legislative Director, Legislative
Division, American Legion, transmitting The American Legion's
103rd Annual Report, The American Legion's Proceedings Of The
103rd Annual National Convention, And The American Legion's
Proceedings Of The 104th Annual National Convention; (H. Doc.
No. 118-116); to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs and ordered
to be printed.
Executive Communications 3649--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--04/02/
2024
A letter from the Regulations Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Department of
Veteran Affairs, transmitting the Department's Major final
rule--Schedule for Rating Disabilities: The Digestive System
(RIN: 2900-AQ90) received March 27, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868);
to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 3650--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--04/02/
2024
A letter from the Regulations Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulatory Policy and Management, Department of
Veterans Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule--
Reproductive Health Services (RIN: 2900-AR57) received March
27, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-
121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 3651--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--04/02/
2024
A letter from the Regulations Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Department of
Veterans Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule--
Agency Ethics Officials (RIN: 2900-AS04) received March 27,
2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121,
section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans'
Affairs.
Executive Communications 3714--House Education and the Workforce and 7
more committees including the Committee on Veterans' Affairs--
04/05/2024
A letter from the Senior Counsel, Office of Legal Policy,
DOJ (on behalf all participating Agencies), Department of
Justice et. al., transmitting the Departments' final rule--
Partnerships With Faith-Based and Neighborhood Organizations
[A.G. Order No.: 5874 2024] (RIN: 2900-AR23; 0412-AB10; 0503-
AA73; 0991-AC13; 1105-AB64; 1290-AA45; 1601-AB02; 1840-AD46;
2501-AD91) received March 13, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868);
jointly to the Committees on Education and the Workforce,
Homeland Security, Agriculture, Foreign Affairs, Financial
Services, the Judiciary, Veterans' Affairs, and Energy and
Commerce.
Executive Communications 3822--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--04/17/
2024
A letter from the National Adjutant, Chief Executive
Officer, Disabled American Veterans, transmitting the reports
and proceedings of the 2023 National Convention of Disabled
American Veterans, held in Atlantic City, New Jersey, August 5-
8, 2023; (H. Doc. No. 118-132); to the Committee on Veterans'
Affairs and ordered to be printed.
Executive Communications 4061--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--05/06/
2024
A letter from the Regulations Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Department of
Veterans Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule--
Loan Guaranty: Servicer Regulation Changes (RIN: 2900-AR97)
received April 24, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A);
Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the
Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Memorial 101--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--05/06/2024
The SPEAKER presented a memorial of the Legislature of the
State of Maine, relative to Joint Resolution S.P. 998,
requesting the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to
provide access to medical care and assistance to members of the
Maine National Guard who trained at the military support base
in Gagetown, New Brunswick, Canada; to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 4084--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--05/07/
2024
A letter from the Regulations Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulatory Policy and Management, Office of General
Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the
Department's manual--VA Manual M26-3, Chapter 9: VA Purchase
received April 24, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A);
Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the
Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 4085--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--05/07/
2024
A letter from the Regulations Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulatory Policy and Management, Office of General
Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the
Department's handbook--VA Servicer Handbook M26-4, Chapter 9:
VA Purchase received April 24, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868);
to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 4399--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--05/31/
2024
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulations Policy and Management, Office of General
Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the
Department's final rule--Changes to the Provision of Health
Care for World War II Veterans (RIN: 2900-AS01) received May
21, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-
121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 4425--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--06/03/
2024
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Office of General
Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the
Department's final rule--Commemorative Plaques and Urns (RIN:
2900-AR88) received May 22, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868);
to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 4618--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--06/26/
2024
A letter from the Regulations Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Office of General
Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the
Department's final rule--Changes in Rates VA Pays for Special
Modes of Transportation; Delay of Effective Date (RIN: 2900-
AS03) received June 12, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868);
to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 4707--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--07/05/
2024
A letter from the Regulations Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management (00REG), Office of
the General Counsel (OCG), Department of Veterans Affairs,
transmitting the Department's final rule--CHAMPVA Coverage of
Audio-Only Telehealth, Mental Health Services, and Cost Sharing
for Certain Contraceptive Services and Contraceptive Products
Approved, Cleared, or Granted by FDA (RIN: 2900-AR55) received
June 20, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law
104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 5014--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--07/30/
2024
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Office of General
Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the
Department's Major final rule--Update and Clarify Regulatory
Bars to Benefits Based on Character of Discharge (RIN: 2900-
AQ95(F)) received July 26, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868);
to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 5030--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--08/02/
2024
A letter from the Regulation Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Office of General
Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the
Department's final rule--Veteran and Spouse Transitional
Assistance Grant Program (RIN: 2900-AR68) received July 26,
2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121,
section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans'
Affairs.
Executive Communications 5102--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--08/16/
2024
A letter from the Regulations Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Office of General
Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the
Department's final rule--Reconsideration of Burial and
Memorialization Decisions (RIN: 2900-AR37(F)) received August
2, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121,
section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans'
Affairs.
Executive Communications 5318--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--09/16/
2024
A letter from the Regulations Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management (00REG), Department
of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule--
Adaptive Equipment Allowance (RIN: 2900-AP39) received August
20, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-
121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 5319--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--09/16/
2024)
A letter from the Regulations Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management (00REG), Department
of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule--
Center for Innovation for Care and Payment Update (RIN: 2900-
AR18) received August 20, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868);
to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 5320--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--09/16/
2024
A letter from the Regulations Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management (00REG), Department
of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule--
Update to Delegations of Authority to Certain Officials (RIN:
2900-AS09) received August 20, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868);
to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 5321--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--09/16/
2024
A letter from the Regulations Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management (00REG), Department
of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule--
Exemption of ``Diversity and Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)
Program Records'' (203VA08) (RIN: 2900-AR95) received August
20, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-
121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 5322--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--09/16/
2024
A letter from the Regulations Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management (00REG), Department
of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the Department's handbook--VA
Servicer Handbook M26-4, Chapter 9: VA Purchase received August
20, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-
121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 5323--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--09/16/
2024
A letter from the Regulations Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulatory Policy and Management (00REG), Department
of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule--
VA Health Professional Scholarship Program (RIN: 2900-AR98)
received August 20, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A);
Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the
Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 5531--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--10/01/
2024
A letter from the Senior Advisor for Oversight, Office of
Regulation Policy & Management (00REG), Department of Veterans
Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule--Bar to
Approval (RIN: 2900-AQ99) received August 27, 2024, pursuant to
5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110
Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 5532--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--10/01/
2024
A letter from the Senior Advisor for Oversight, Office of
Regulation Policy and Management (00REG), Department of
Veterans Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule--
Delegation of Concurrence for Entitlement Extensions (RIN:
2900-AS14(F)) received August 27, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868);
to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 5649--House Armed Services and 1 more
committee--10/11/2024
A letter from the Deputy Secretary and Under Secretary of
Defense for Personnel and Readiness, Department of Veterans
Affairs and Department of Defense, transmitting the Annual
Joint Report for Fiscal Year 2023 regarding the activities and
accomplishments of the Department of Veterans Affairs and
Department of Defense Joint Executive Committee, pursuant to 38
U.S.C. 8111(f)(1); Public Law 96-22, section 301(a) (as amended
by Public Law 97-174, section 3(a)(3)); (96 Stat. 73); jointly
to the Committees on Armed Services and Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 5924--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--11/01/
2024
A letter from the Senior Advisor, Office of Regulation
Policy and Management, Department of Veterans Affairs,
transmitting the Department's final rule--Expanded Burial
Benefits (RIN: 2900-AR69) received October 11, 2024, pursuant
to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110
Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 5925--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--11/01/
2024
A letter from the Senior Advisor for Oversight, Office of
Regulation Policy and Management, Department of Veterans
Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule--Outer Burial
Receptacles (RIN: 2900-AR82) received October 11, 2024,
pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section
251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 5926--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--11/01/
2024
A letter from the Regulations Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Department of
Veterans Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule--
Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant
Program (RIN: 2900-AR16) received October 11, 2024, pursuant to
5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section 251; (110
Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 5927--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--11/01/
2024
A letter from the Regulations Development Coordinator,
Office of Regulation Policy and Management, Department of
Veterans Affairs, transmitting the Department's manual--VA
Manual M26 3, Chapter 9: VA Purchase received October 11, 2024,
pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section
251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 5928--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--11/01/
2024
A letter from the Secretary, Department of Veterans
Affairs, transmitting a draft bill, the ``Veterans Health,
Benefits and Administration Programs Act of 2025''; to the
Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 6198--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--11/26/
2024
A letter from the Senior Advisor for Oversight, Office of
Regulation Policy and Management, Department of Veterans
Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule--Fee
Reasonableness Reviews; Effect of Loss of Accreditation on
Direct Payment (RIN: 2900-AR93) received November 21, 2024,
pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, section
251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 6199--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--11/26/
2024
A letter from the Senior Advisor for Oversight, Office of
Regulation Policy and Management, Department of Veterans
Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule--Determining
Eligibility for Domiciliary Care (RIN: 2900-AR61) received
November 21, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public
Law 104-121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs.
Executive Communications 6200--Committee on Veterans' Affairs--11/26/
2024
A letter from the Senior Advisor for Oversight, Office of
Regulation Policy and Management, Department of Veterans
Affairs, transmitting the Department's final rule--Legal
Services for Homeless Veterans and Veterans At-Risk for
Homelessness Grant Program (RIN: 2900-AR33) received November
21, 2024, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-
121, section 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on
Veterans' Affairs.
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