Larson Disappointed House Republicans Block Bipartisan, Veteran-Backed Measure
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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