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Larson Disappointed House Republicans Block Bipartisan, Veteran-Backed Measure

September 14, 2016

Washington – 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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Issues:Veterans