Bilirakis Continues Work to Reform VA, Improve Hiring Practices

The Committee on Veterans' Affairs Subcommittees on Health and Economic Opportunity today held a joint legislative hearing on draft legislation to improve the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to hire and retain physicians and other employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Members discussed legislation that would reform the VA to ensure the Secretary of Veterans Affairs has the necessary authority to take action when addressing concerns and hiring employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Witnesses included: the Partnership for Public Service's Max Stier, The American Legion's Roscoe G. Butler, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Carlos Fuentes, and the VA's Carolyn Clancy, M.D. accompanied by Elias Hernandez

"Today gave us the opportunity to review the VA's proposal to reduce barriers in hiring qualified health physicians and other employees of the Department," said Congressman Bilirakis. "There have been many ongoing issues within the VA and we are continuously working to address these problems. With input from key witnesses today, I am hopeful that we will draft efficient and effective legislation in order to bring about positive reforms."

"Our Veterans deserve a supportive, transparent, proficient VA with the best employees possible," Bilirakis added. "It is our duty to look after our heroes who so bravely looked after our freedoms."

Learn more about today's hearing here.