05.25.17

Bipartisan Bill Will Help Ensure Veterans Receive the Care They Need

‘…[A]fter the state work period, we’ll be taking up a bipartisan bill reported out of Committee just yesterday that will enhance accountability at the VA, improve the care veterans receive, and empower the VA with the tools necessary to remove employees who are failing to perform at the high-quality level our nation’s heroes richly deserve.’

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) made the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act:

“As we approach the Memorial Day weekend, we are reminded of the great sacrifice that so many men and women in uniform have made on our behalf through the years. The servicemembers whose memory we honor paid the ultimate price in defending our nation, our families, and our freedom. We are forever indebted to them.

“But as we reflect upon our fallen soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines, we’re also reminded of the responsibility we have to the heroes who have returned home — our veterans. I don’t have to tell colleagues how important keeping our commitment to our veterans is. We have an all-volunteer force, and we cannot break faith with the Americans who bravely and willingly fight on our behalf.   One way we can honor them is by working to ensure that they receive the quality, timely care they need through the Department of Veterans Affairs.

“That’s why after the state work period, we’ll be taking up a bipartisan bill reported out of Committee just yesterday that will enhance accountability at the VA, improve the care veterans receive, and empower the VA with the tools necessary to remove employees who are failing to perform at the high-quality level our nation’s heroes richly deserve.

“Importantly this bill, the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act, will build on progress we’ve made already with the 2014 Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act.

“We know many challenges remain in ensuring that veterans have access to the care they need and deserve at the VA, but this legislation will further improve our ability to meet our commitment to them.  I appreciate Chairman Isakson for his continued advocacy on behalf of our veterans as well as Senator Rubio for his leadership on this critical legislation. I look forward to the full Senate taking up the bill and passing it soon.”

Related Issues: Veterans