Larson Disappointed House Republicans Block Bipartisan, Veteran-Backed Measure

Press Release

Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) expressed his disappointment that Republican Leadership would not allow his amendment to the VA Accountability First and Appeals Modernization Act (H.R. 5620). Larson's amendment was identical to part of a bipartisan Senate measure that has been endorsed by the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Disabled American Veterans.

"Our veterans should never be used as a political football," said Larson. "By ruling my amendment out of order, Republican Leadership has put partisanship above the well-being of those who have selflessly served our nation. I am deeply disappointed that an amendment backed by our veterans themselves could not be made in order. By moving a partisan bill forward without improvements, Republicans are only further delaying the action our veterans desperately need to improve accountability at the VA. I will keep fighting to protect the constitutional rights of VA workers and whistleblowers while still providing a more effective way to remove bad actors."

Larson's amendment would allow for the efficient removal of employees with reported misconduct and poor performance while still allowing for fair, evidence-based reviews. Larson's amendment enjoys support from:

American Legion
Veterans of Foreign Wars
Disabled American Veterans
Paralyzed Veterans of America
Office of Special Counsel
Government Accountability Project
National Association of State Approving Agencies
National Guard Association of the U.S.
Veterans Education Success
Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS)
Project on Government Oversight
Nurses Organization of Veterans Affairs (NOVA)
Military Officers Association of America
Vietnam Veterans of America
AMVETS
National Alliance to End Homelessness
National Coalition for Homeless Veterans

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