New Legislation Allowing VA to Fire Career Employees Tied to Wait Times Passes House

Statement

Congressman Henry Cuellar today voted in support of HR 4031, a bill that will allow the Veterans Affairs Secretary to remove any career employee tied to the ongoing issues regarding wait times and quality of care at the VA. Under the measure, the VA secretary could remove any such individual from federal service or transfer the individual to another position that the secretary determines is appropriate.

"Our veterans deserve the highest level of care and customer service and we must ensure that the Veterans Administration remains accountable," said Congressman Cuellar. "The recent allegations of delayed care and wait lists at Veterans Affairs facilities across the country are unacceptable and a disservice to the men and women who have fought for our freedom. That is why I am supporting this legislation that will make it easier for the Secretary of the VA to fix the problems that are plaguing the system. We owe the more than 21.1 million veterans in the United States and more than 1.6 million veterans in the State of Texas a higher standard of care and a higher level of commitment."

Rep. Cuellar spoke on the House Floor in May 2014 in support in of increased funds to reduce the benefits claims backlog that affects many Texas veterans.

Source