▶ 0:00:00inflation. They're also continuing to grow even as the veterans population declines. So, where exactly is the money Well, within the budget function that covers veterans benefits and services, there are five major categories: income education, training, and rehabilitation, hospital and medical care, housing, and other general benefits and Of the total 377.22 billion going to everything
▶ 0:00:30in this function, more than half is spent on income security programs. The vast majority of this is for disability compensation and pension programs, which, while they are important, do also need to be reevaluated for fraud, waste, abuse, and any dollars that are going toward bureaucratic overhead rather than veterans themselves.
▶ 0:00:51This is followed by nearly 150 billion for hospital and medical care for Knowing that money is currently being spent in this sector is important only insofar as Congress actually acts on this without worsening the national The need for oversight and sustained reauthorization is absolutely key. If you are not looking at where the dollars are going now, you will not know how to better spend them in the future. There are challenges today that were not present in the 1970s or '80s.
▶ 0:01:20For example, perhaps housing should be getting a bigger slice of that pie or education and training. Perhaps we should be reevaluating mental health research and making sure that outcomes are matching up with where dollars should be going rather than following the trend of the '70s, '80s, and '90s prior to the global war on terror.
▶ 0:01:39I'm running low on time here, so I'll just finish up by saying that GAO has consistently ranked several VA programs as high risk, that payment accuracy has noted that the VA comprises only 6% of entire federal budget, but is responsible for the fourth highest outlays to designated to susceptible programs. And improper fraud, waste, and abuse, as well as improper payments are going to continue being exacerbated without additional action by Congress.
▶ 0:02:08The alternative is clear, oversight is needed. Thank you, and I look forward to your questions. I would I'd now like to recognize Mr. Stratton for Stratton for his 5-minutes opening remarks. Good morning Good morning, Mr. Chairman, ranking member, and members of the committee. Thank you for having me testify today. My name is Tim Stratton, and I'm the director of the Congressional Oversight Initiative at the Project on Government Oversight, or POGO.
▶ 0:02:38POGO is a non-profit independent watchdog that investigates, exposes, and champions reforms on systematic corruption, abuse of power, and waste. Since 2006, the Congressional Oversight Initiative has trained nearly 6,000 congressional staffers from both parties and both chambers on the best practices of oversight and investigations. I'm honored to be here today to talk about the importance of congressional oversight, especially at the Department of Veterans Affairs.
▶ 0:03:07As the Article 1 branch of government, Congress has a constitutional responsibility to conduct oversight. The Supreme Court recognized this nearly 100 years ago when it stated, "Congress cannot legislate wisely or effectively in the absence of information." To fulfill that constitutional role, Congress must ensure the executive branch responds to oversight requests either through request letters, briefings, and pure net hearings, and it remains accountable to the public it serves.
▶ 0:03:37Strong oversight can uncover waste, fraud, abuse, mismanagement before problems escalate into larger failures. It can also inform future legislation. Oversight depends heavily on whistleblowers and bipartisan cooperation, both of which strengthen Congress's ability to hold agencies This This committee understands those stakes very well.
▶ 0:04:00The 2014 VA wait list scandal demonstrated the serious consequences that can occur when accountability breaks down. At that time, POGO collected nearly 1,000 responses from veterans and VA employees revealing a troubling culture of retaliation against whistleblowers.
▶ 0:04:17As POGO has testified before this committee on several occasions on the need to reform the VA's Office of Accountability and Whistleblower Protection to ensure whistleblowers are protected and the office functions independently and as effectively as Congress intended. Today, the need for oversight at the VA remains substantial.
▶ 0:04:38Congress has not reauthorized key components of the department for nearly three decades with many programs continuing to operate under expired At that time, the VA's fiscal year 2017 budget request totals more than $488 a 7.7% increase over last year's enacted Investments on that scale demand sustained congressional oversight to ensure laws and programs are operating effectively in delivering intended outcomes for veterans.
▶ 0:05:08As you said, Mr. Chairman, outcomes are The top line figure, however, is just the tip of the iceberg. In fiscal year 2015 alone, the VA made nearly $288 billion in awards including $90 billion in contracts. POGO has spent decades conducting oversight of federal contracting, an area historically vulnerable to waste, fraud, abuse, and mismanagement.
▶ 0:05:35Last year, the VA awarded more than $6 billion in contracts without competition and another nearly $10 million in contracts were made when only a single bid was received. Congress should continue ensuring agencies use robust competition and sound contracting practices. Strong oversight also depends on strong um oversight institutions. Mr. Chairman, you mentioned Inspectors General and the Government Accountability Office.
▶ 0:06:03Those are among Congress's most important partners in conducting effective oversight. As of this month, the VA's Office of Inspector General has more than 550 open recommendations for the department. And the GAO has another 170 more, including more than 20 listed as high priority and high risk.
▶ 0:06:22These recommendations present a clear opportunity for congressional oversight and a potential roadmap for legislative I should add that while the VA does have a permanent IG in place, dozens of IG positions across the government are vacant, with most of them still waiting for a nominee. And the GAO is also acting without a permanent head and is also waiting for a nominee since December.
▶ 0:06:48Finally, as I close, I'd like to stress congressional oversight should not depend on which party controls the White House. Oversight is one of Congress's core constitutional responsibilities as the Article 1 branch of government. Effective oversight protects taxpayer dollars, improves government performance, ensures existing laws are being implemented properly, safeguards veterans and whistleblowers, and preserves the system of checks and balances envisioned by the framers. Thank you again for the opportunity to testify today, and I look forward to your questions.
▶ 0:07:18Thank you, Mr. Stratton. And um also for the both the written statement of Ms. Madney and Mr. Stratton will be entered into the hearing record. Uh I would now like to recognize Mr. Ritchie uh for 5 minutes uh for his opening remarks. Chairman Bost, Ranking Member Takano, members of the committee, thank you for the opportunity to testify today.
▶ 0:07:43My name is Mark Ritchie and I am on the board of the National Federal Development Association or NFDA. The nonprofit NFDA represents the private sector partners who have who have invested billions in the infrastructure essential to the VA mission. We are not just vendors, we are the bridge between private capital and the public service of our nation's veterans.
▶ 0:08:08We understand the mechanics of the federal real estate leasing market better than most and we are here today to express our strong support for HR leasing and infrastructure act of 2025.
▶ 0:08:24The bill provides for common sense solutions by adopting modern standards and if I leave you with anything today, it is by adoption of these reforms, we will be able to deliver timely, cost-effective medical facilities for use by our nation's veterans. The testimony should also serve to answer the question, why does VA keep coming back to Congress for additional money to fund these lease projects?
▶ 0:08:52The three major takeaways are the methodology the VA utilizes to determine rent for these projects makes no sense. Two, current use of full service leases for a 20-year period actually adds to the cost of these important projects and three, the linear VA GSA approval process adds significant time to the delivery of these important facilities.
▶ 0:09:20I think we we can agree the requisite agencies intentions are to protect taxpayers all while serving our vets. In reality, the current VA GSA OMB process is dysfunctional and by maintaining the status quo, these bid busts will continue to haunt us. Why? You will be asked again and again to approve prospectuses that aren't worth the paper they are print print printed on.
▶ 0:09:48While my written testimony delves deeper into these three pillars, I believe the best place to start is in the middle of the story. Where on May 1, 2024, nearly 2 years after approval of the PACT Act, the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee hosted a business meeting with NVA Secretary McDonough.
▶ 0:10:09Among the topics discussed were the 31 PACT Act leases, and in his remarks to Senator Tillis, Secretary Secretary McDonough commented, and I'm paraphrasing, he McDonough might need to come back and ask to reauthorize at a higher cost level. We've seen anywhere between 60 and 150% above the authorized level.
▶ 0:10:35My written testimony details a timeline of this odyssey, so I won't address that now. However, and in and ex- and an experienced industry practitioner can quickly determine the viability of these projects within minutes of review of the initial authorization request. I'm not here to castigate VA as a VA does the best it can with the tools provided.
▶ 0:11:03Unfortunately, we've provided the VA with a jeweler's hammer when a sledgehammer is required. HR 6599 is not just a leasing bill. It is a clinical access bill. When a lease award is delayed by years due to bureaucratic friction, that is time veterans spend waiting for the care they have earned.
▶ 0:11:25By removing the government premium and streamlining authority, we ensure that taxpayer dollars go toward veteran health rather than administrative waste. HR 6599 provides the VA with the necessary tools to build a responsive, modern healthcare network while while remaining fiscally accountable.
▶ 0:11:47By modernizing cost estimation, adopting market-based leasing structures, and establishing independent authority, the committee can dissolve the gridlock that has stalled veteran care. The NFDA believes its legislation is a prudent way to ensure that taxpayer dollars are used efficiently to build the 21st century facilities the VA mission requires.
▶ 0:12:14We urge the committee to move forward with these essential reforms to ensure our veterans receive the high-quality facilities they have earned and deserve. Chairman Bost, thanks to you and your committee for your laser focus on this important issue. I look forward to your questions. Thank you, Mr. Richie. And Mr. Richie's state statement The written statement of Mr. Richie will be entered into the hearing record.
▶ 0:12:42And finally, we want to recognize Ms. Kean, not before we say welcome back after the delivery of your daughter. And this is our first time appearing before us since that, and congratulations. Now you're recognized for 5 minutes for your opening Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
▶ 0:13:00Chairman Bost, Ranking Member Takano, and members of the committee, on behalf of the men and women of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States and its auxiliary, thank you for the opportunity to present the VFW's views on pending legislation. The VFW's full written statement addresses nearly all the bills on today's agenda, but I would like to briefly highlight four key key pieces of legislation.
▶ 0:13:24The VFW appreciates Chairman Bost's leadership in bringing attention to the governance issues caused by VA's VISN structure by introducing HR 6733, the VISN Reform Act of 2025. After years of Inspector General reports documenting inconsistencies in healthcare delivery and serious patient safety concerns across the VISN structure, we strongly believe that reform is necessary.
▶ 0:13:51However, since VA has already begun restructuring and consolidating its 18 VISNs, the VFW would like to better understand the impact of those ongoing efforts before fully endorsing large-scale statutory changes. We want to ensure that reforms improve accountability and consistency without reducing flexibility at the local level or negatively affecting veterans access to care. We look forward to continuing to work with the committee on this important issue.
▶ 0:14:23The VFW supports HR 6843, the Establishing the Veteran Veterans Economic Opportunity and Transition Administration Act of 2025. This legislation would create a fourth administration within VA dedicated to the economic opportunity and transition programs. This would include education benefits, voc rehab, and employment, housing loan programs, and transition assistance.
▶ 0:14:49The VFW believes these programs deserve focused leadership and resources to help veterans successfully transition to civilian life while allowing VBA to focus on disability compensation claims and appeals. The VFW supports 4114, the Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition or E-VEST Act.
▶ 0:15:11This legislation would automatically enroll transitioning service members into the VA healthcare system within 60 days of VA receiving the necessary information from the Department of It would also preserve veterans' ability to opt out.
▶ 0:15:28The VFW strongly supports efforts to create a seamless transition from DoD to Too many veterans leave military service without immediately connecting to the benefits and health care that they've The first year after service often brings challenges surrounding mental health, employment, housing stability, and increased risks for suicide.
▶ 0:15:51Automatic enrollment helps create a warm handoff and reduces barriers to critical Veterans should not have to navigate unnecessary hurdles simply to access the health care that they've earned. Finally, the VFW supports the discussion draft to establish an office for toxic exposure implementation and oversight and an assistant secretary for toxic exposure coordination within VA.
▶ 0:16:18The implementation of the PACT Act and toxic exposure policy now touches nearly every part of VA, including health care, disability compensation, research, outreach, and workforce planning. The VFW supports creating centralized leadership to improve coordination and accountability across these efforts. We also encourage the committee to consider transparency measures as part of this proposal.
▶ 0:16:46Veterans deserve greater visibility into how VA evaluates toxic exposures and presumptive conditions. We would like to see clearer public communication regarding which exposures and conditions are under review, estimated timelines for presumptive evaluations, and how scientific evidence is being assessed. Veterans exposed to toxins should not be left uncertain about whether their conditions are being considered or where the progress stands.
▶ 0:17:17Chairman Bost, ranking Member Takano, this concludes my remarks. I'm prepared to answer any questions you or the members of the committee may have. Thank you, Ms. Keeman. The written statement of Ms. Keeman will be entered into the hearing record. We now will proceed to questions and I will yield myself 5 minutes. Um Ms. Badanek, can you explain the importance of authorizing appro- appropriated funds? Absolutely, Mr. Chairman.
▶ 0:17:48I think I could talk to you about the generalities of why Congress has an oversight responsibility, but perhaps it's more effective to start with an In 2001, multiple things of significant importance to the VA happened. Of course, in September of that year, we had the start of the global war on terror given 9/11. We also had the expiration of the centers for mental illness research, education, and clinical activities at the VA.
▶ 0:18:18That program is continuing as an expired authorization that is receiving appropriations around 6 and 1/2 million That mental illness research that was expired but continuing to be an unauthorized appropriation in 2001 is not sufficient for veterans' needs and I'll explain how we know this. In 2001, we'll even take the next year, 2002 to be generous.
▶ 0:18:44The rate of suicide deaths for veterans per 100,000 was 24.2 veterans, already far too high. 24.2 back then. Now, the latest data we have is from 2023, the rate of suicides per 100,000 is 35.2 veterans. We've gone up from 23,24 veterans dying by suicide per 100,000. Could Could I ask you something there? Yes, sir. Okay.
▶ 0:19:14So, where were your numbers from on that? Because that's not the same numbers that we're lining up with. I don't think, but okay. On the amount of suicides this last report.
▶ 0:19:25This is per 100,000.
▶ 0:19:27Oh, per 100,000. Okay, thank you. Thank you. Yeah, let me know. Thank you. I was going per day. Sorry. No, no. I I thought that might be where you were going. It is actually the same data set, but I've adjusted it.
▶ 0:19:37you. Um So, per 100,000 we've gone up Well, what else has happened during that time? The mental health research and underlying programs at the VA have been receiving unauthorized appropriations. Now, that doesn't mean that we shouldn't be funding mental health research for veterans. What it means is that we need to be re-examining that program so it is properly tailored to the needs of today's veterans.
▶ 0:20:06As you mentioned during your opening statement, Mr. uh what is going on now is really focused on an entirely new generation of the veterans population. Well, that new generation needs attention just as much as previous generations. Right. Thank Uh Mr. Stratton, uh VA has repeatedly asked uh this committee for increased flexibility in our legislative proposals.
▶ 0:20:32How would continuing to give VA the flexibility hurt accountability and Congress' oversight capabilities? Uh thank you, Mr. Chairman. Flexibility is, you know, critically important, especially with programs like this. However, anytime an uh agency or department, you know, asks for these things, they should be up before the committee answering questions on their plans for implementation, uh once it's implemented, the progress of that.
▶ 0:20:59Uh they should be up here, you know, they should be briefings, they should be answering, you know, in public hearings on the status of, you know, implementing laws and their plans to improve such If they're asking for money and flexibility, they should be answering your questions and telling that you how they plan to spend that. Thank you. Mr. can you walk us through why OMB's current cost methodology is insufficient for estimating VA infrastructure projects today?
▶ 0:21:28Thank you for that question and and that is really the crux of everything um in regards to 6599. basically on day one when the VA looks to develop these clinics, the first thing they do is figure out where the veteran census is. Then they figure out how much it is going to cost or how much rent that they can pay.
▶ 0:21:52The uh OMB has a directive or a dictate in regards to they must use a specific piece of software or product that only calculates office rents. And if you've been to a clinic, these are nothing like office buildings. Um so day one, they effectively are given a bad road map.
▶ 0:22:16Then they go out to the market with their lease prospectus numbers that as we know from last year were between 60 and 150% below the actual rental costs. So something is wrong there, but using this um software product, it just isn't appropriate. It just doesn't work for general purpose medical buildings or medical facilities.
▶ 0:22:40I'm a little over on time, but I still want Miss King, can you share with us why OMB uh scorekeeping guidelines might need to be re-evaluated? I don't know the context of your questions. I I don't have any comments at this time. Thank you.
▶ 0:22:57All right. I will yield 5 minutes to ranking Thank you, Mr. [clears throat] Chairman. Um Mr. Keenan, I'd like to I'll begin Mr. Keenan, I'd like to begin with you. Greg, also congratulations on the arrival of your child. Um the chairman removed HR 1732, uh Mr. Pappas' Guard VA Benefits Act from today's agenda, meaning it will no longer be considered.
▶ 0:23:26Uh VFW spoke strongly in favor of that legislation at a joint VSO hearing at joint VSO hearings earlier this year. Do you believe that the Guard VA Benefits Act should be considered by this committee, marked up, and brought to the House floor for a vote? Um that's one question, and what is the importance of getting this legislation done for the Uh thank you, ranking member, for that question. Yes, we the VFW strongly wants to see the Guard Act move forward.
▶ 0:23:56Um and every day that it that it doesn't, um you know, unaccredited claim sharks continue to exploit veterans and their benefits. So, the longer that this this waits, the more veterans are going to be subject to some of this exploitation. Yes, thank you. It's you know, it's my you know, the states are some states are moving ahead with strong protections, others more permissive protections that allow veterans to be targeted.
▶ 0:24:24It's so there really is a a need for the federal government to uh enforce protections, um establish protections for our veterans from being targeted. Uh would you agree with that? Yes, a federal solution is probably the best way to solve this problem. Thank you. Mr.
▶ 0:24:43Stratton, your testimony highlights the need for robust congressional oversight, uh and I couldn't agree with you more, um but I noticed your testimony didn't speak to the uh to any of the individual any of the individual bills on the agendas today. Do you think that any of these bills will actually enhance our ability to oversee the VA? Uh, because these bills seem to be focused on bringing more private interests into policy making than holding the administration accountable.
▶ 0:25:12That's kind of where I see things. Yeah, thank you. Uh, POGO hasn't taken a position on any of the pieces of legislation. A lot of this is behind our um expertise. Um, however, we do support um Congress looking at programs more broadly and assessing if they're currently the department's currently meeting the needs of bene- um veterans and if some of these bills are, you know, needed. So, we're supportive of the process overall, but not any of the underlying pieces of legislation. All right. Well, thank you.
▶ 0:25:43Um, Mr. Richie, uh, study after study, whether by GAO, VA, OIG, and others have found the problem with VA's delayed or failed procurements lie with VA itself, inadequate funding to conduct planning activities, multi-layered project development and governance structure, unnecessarily detailed solicitations, and a failure to gauge market pricing have made it more challenging for VA to open new medical facilities
▶ 0:26:13on time and on cost. Mr. Richie, would you support a proposal that would give VA leasing authority um independent of the General Services Administration so there would be even fewer guardrails? Yes, that is yes. So, you would support um a VA leasing authority independent of the of the of the of the GAO?
▶ 0:26:37My under- Yes, in my understanding prior to 2011, 2012, VA had its own leasing authority. Um, how will giving VA more power and taking the actual federal real estate experts out of this process be an improvement? So, I would argue that um at least in construction facilities management, you have many executives there that had come from the VA. So, we're just trained they were trained in VA processes. One.
▶ 0:27:07at least the third parties or the private sector partners believe that the process that the VA undergoes is very very rigid and They believe the process is very rigid you know, we don't necessarily we don't necessarily see problems with having VA oversight. Okay, moving on.
▶ 0:27:32How does this legislation improve the institutional challenges as identified by VA's OIG which have led to project delivery failures and repeated bid Okay, so very multi-layered question. I'll try to do the best I can in the time. I have 17 seconds to answer that. Um That that'd be difficult to answer in 17 questions. So, the answer is no. We'll have to get it to you from maybe a That would be fine. Okay, I yield back, Mr. Chairman.
▶ 0:28:03Gentleman yields back. Representative Van Orden, you're recognized for 5 minutes. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Ms. Killeen, I've 4 years now had the pleasure of calling you my fellow veteran and my friend and now it's great to call you mom. It's so awesome. I'm so happy. It's just Um I'd like to speak briefly on a bill HR 6843 that's been introduced by my dear friend uh Mr. Ciscomani from Arizona.
▶ 0:28:31And I think it's incredibly important being the chairman of the subcommittee economic opportunity that um we actually have a group of folks at the VA that are going to focused specifically on transition. It's critically important. Most of our that unfortunately uh commit suicide do it within about 24 months after retiring. And uh I got a commitment from the CNO uh yesterday.
▶ 0:28:59We've got a commitment from the Secretary of of war and also of the VA that uh they're going to focus more on this and it's going to be a more seamless transition from active uh to being a veteran. And I'm very proud of them, uh Mr. Collins and and Mr. Hegseth for doing so. So, uh Mr. Ciscomani uh is a great patriot.
▶ 0:29:23He has a huge um active duty uh population in his district and he is focusing on them as he should. I'm very proud also to call him my friend. So, I would just urge all my colleagues to support HR 6843 to make sure that we can continue to have a fantastic uh group of American patriots, not just veterans. And with that, I yield back. Gentleman yields back. Representative Brownley.
▶ 0:29:54Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And um before I ask a question or two, I just wanted to make note in this meeting that I'm disappointed that my bill HR 4876, the Reproductive Freedom for Veterans Act, was removed from today's legislative hearing.
▶ 0:30:11It addresses an important issue that impacts veterans' health, certainly veterans' equity to health care, and I will continue to urge this committee to include it in future So, with that, I uh Ms. Keenan, congratulations. I don't want to be the only member on the dais that doesn't congratulate you today.
▶ 0:30:33So, so, I wanted to ask um a question around dental care uh between October 2024 and September of 2025 nearly 888,000 veterans received dental care, which is just about 1/3 of eligible uh veterans to receive dental care.
▶ 0:30:56The VA operates approximately um 1,380 health care facilities, but dental care is available at just over 200 of those sites. Um which just represents about 15% of all VHA uh locations. What do your members experience when seeking uh dental care services at the VA uh given the limited number of dental care Uh thank you for the question.
▶ 0:31:26Veterans using VA care experience hurdles with accessing dental um even when they have a service-connected injury related to their dental care. Um it's still is very um location-specific and facility-specific if they can get their care within their VA. Has transportation been a also a barrier to that or Transportation can always be a barrier, especially for rural veterans.
▶ 0:31:53So, access to that care can be limited depending on where they live. So, um also 25% of younger veterans have uh dental insurance and only a third of uh 1/3 of older veterans have dental insurance. Uh older veterans have worse oral health outcomes than non-veterans and younger veterans are less likely to have dental insurance than older veterans.
▶ 0:32:19So, um How has these age-related differences in dental health dental care access affected members that you serve? Well, I think the the biggest difference is some of the health conditions that our older veterans are experiencing and dental care is part of health care. It can be a preventative care, but it can also impact veterans with serious health conditions.
▶ 0:32:49the conditions that our older veterans are experiencing may be different than some of our younger veterans, but the dental care in combination with some of their serious health conditions can can make things worse. Thank you. And I will just end on just wanting to weigh in on this leasing issue and taking it out of GSA and putting it back into the decision-making of the VA.
▶ 0:33:13I spent, I don't know, the first six years since I've you know been in Congress working on this issue trying to get it out of the VA to the GSA where there the experience lies and I think the process has moved a lot smoother since that happened. I will tell you in the first six years or so, I can't remember exactly the time frame, but nothing moved.
▶ 0:33:42I mean, it just went on and on and on and I know this particular bill says, "Oh, well, it'll have to be done within a one-year time frame." I can assure you that the VA is not going to be able to meet that requirement. You know, absolutely they will not be able to. So, I think it's where it needs to be and with that I yield back. The gentlewoman yields back. Uh Representative Barr, you're recognized for 5 minutes. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you all for being here.
▶ 0:34:10Of course, congratulations on new found status as a a mom. I will warn I have four kids of my own, so I have to give you unsolicited parental advice, of course, and all I can tell you is this is a life sentence. So, uh And if you doubted that, I am recently turned 45 years old and my mom still worries about me. So, um so so it's a great it's a great thing. and thank you to our panel for being here today.
▶ 0:34:39Um I uh wanted to just open up and um kind of lay out a foundation of some of the work that we're doing. Um I I had introduced uh HR 6833, the Acquisition Reform and Cost Assessment Act, known as the ARCA Act for short, topic of conversation today.
▶ 0:34:59Really kind of tackling this issue of chronic bureaucracy and how that can delay implementation and get lost in the weeds of what our actual mission is, which is to deliver care and benefits to veterans who've earned that. Um but the VA has a really poorly structured acquisition and contracting Um and it really does bog down the progress we're trying to make. Um it fails to provide real accountability for underperforming contractors. Some of these contracts get needlessly
▶ 0:35:29When that happens, the costs go up for taxpayers, and that cuts into the services that ought to be preserved for our veterans. When more is going out the door in one way, it takes less uh than that we are delivering to actual Um one way that we just saw this very recently, that the DOJ just indicted a former executive at the VA who was responsible for a huge portion of this electronic health record modernization effort.
▶ 0:35:57Something that has plagued the VA for years, something that falls squarely within the um portfolio of what the subcommittee that I have the privilege of leading is really looking at is this electronic health record modernization that's so critical for veterans across the country. Um you know, we were saddened to see this uh indictment. I don't want to presume anyone's guilt or innocence from here.
▶ 0:36:18Of course, we have a process for playing that out, but I think it does certainly raise the alarm bells of what we ought to be looking at as far far accountability within the VA, and having an acquisition process I think is really important to that. Um now with that being said, I'd like to hear some of your all thoughts on on this effort um starting with Miss Madney, did I say that correctly? Very good.
▶ 0:36:43Um can you talk a little bit more explain to us a little bit more about how ballooning contracts and acquisitions have continued to increase overall spending without increasing benefits for veterans. Uh you know, it's one thing if you were spending more money to increase benefits and outcomes but if we're just spending more money without doing that I'd I'd be curious on your take on those. Well, we shouldn't be doing it. Yes, absolutely. Um no, you you put it very well, sir.
▶ 0:37:07If you are increasing funding without improving outcomes, then what you're actually doing is making outcomes worse. Mhm. And I know that might seem counterintuitive, shouldn't it just be a net neutral? But the reality of the situation is no, as I mentioned in my uh written testimony, as spending increases, you increase inflation, you increase unaffordability, and so what ends up happening is that the overall market prices are driven up by uh transfer payments, inflationary pressures, etc.
▶ 0:37:37Which means when you do eventually get to uh following through on some of these contracts, they will be expensive. They will be even more expensive. So, you actually have this multi-layered, multi-tiered problem. The only way to fix that is to perform regular oversight and hold the VA accountable. And I think your bill is an an excellent first step to that. I would also suggest perhaps having a series of more uh robust oversight hearings to see their steps and whether or not they're following
▶ 0:38:07I um thank you for that. I I think I learned years ago I worked uh in Michigan for the uh for the state treasurer um probably 15 or so years ago and we had this um point that I learned which is separating the difference between outputs and outcomes. You can spend a lot of money on outputs that don't actually change the outcomes.
▶ 0:38:28And especially the work that we do on this committee should be focused really heavily on the outcomes for veterans that, you know, instead of looking at how much we spend on something specifically, well, what was the outcome of that, not just the outputs within it. Um Ms. Keenan, if you wouldn't mind, uh I had a question for you. How does the lack of congressional oversight over the VA acquisition process hurt veterans in in your Uh thank you for the question.
▶ 0:38:57I I think our main concern is um failures um to to properly modernize systems effectively, efficiently, and using the funding appropriately. So, additional oversight, we're totally on board with some of the provisions in the bill and sort of the efforts to try to rein in um and and oversee some of these major projects um to avoid any kind of uh delays and waste of
▶ 0:39:27of taxpayer I think that's the goal with with this kind of proposal. Thank you. Mr. Chairman, yield back. Thank you. Gentleman yield yields back. Mr. Gar Mr. McGarvey, you are recognized for 5 minutes. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I think maybe we should make a motion to have everyone congratulate Ms. Keenan, but until that happens until that happens, I have to also say congratulations. So, [laughter] um uh but my my guess is you're going to keep getting it. So, congratulations uh on the birth of your daughter.
▶ 0:39:56So, um uh thank you for being here today. And I think, you know, one thing about this committee is we are focused on a Right? We are focused on the mission of serving our veterans. These are the men and women who put on the uniform quite literally willing to sacrifice everything to keep us safe and keep us In exchange for that service, we do make a promise. We make a promise that we're going to take care of you. So, when we talk about veterans benefits, we are not talking about something we are giving to someone. We are talking about something they have earned.
▶ 0:40:27And we are talking about a promise, both a moral and a legal promise we have made. So, when veterans are trying to get the benefits they have earned and they are denied those benefits, they necessarily have the right to appeal that decision. It is part of the promise we make in exchange for service. Now, one thing that I hear about all the time in Louisville, and I know you all hear about across the country, is how long it takes to get a decision on these appeals from our veterans.
▶ 0:40:54This is more than just some, you know, bureaucratic maze or some statistic. Every single veteran who is waiting for a decision on their appeal is waiting on something that might help them keep a roof over their head, put food on the table, get the treatment they need. So, how do we speed these up? Now, I know, as a recovering lawyer myself, that lawyers are often times punching bags, uh and sometimes deserve to be.
▶ 0:41:20But, in the veteran space that we're talking about right here with getting those appeals to get the benefits you've earned, it is lawyers in the VA who make those decisions. They are the ones writing those opinions. And we are having trouble keeping lawyers in place to do that. That is partly responsible for the backlog, which is hurting veterans. They're not able to have that roof over their head. They're not able to get that decision. They're not able to get the benefit they have earned.
▶ 0:41:44There is a simple fix we have proposed to make this better, not to completely fix the problem, but to make it better so our veterans get these results faster. And that is a bill I've introduced, HR 2303, the Board of Veterans Appeals Attorney Retention and Backlog Reduction Act, which is a really long name to just say we're trying to keep more attorneys here to get our veterans what they need and get it to them faster. It would allow us to promote veterans to the GS-15 spot.
▶ 0:42:10It is a way of retaining talented individuals and most importantly getting our veterans what they need. So, Ms. Kearney, you noted in your testimony that attorney attrition at the board directly contributes to the appeals backlog. Can you talk a little bit about what that backlog means for the veterans you serve at VFW?
▶ 0:42:32So, the backlog of appeals you know, can take years many times for veterans and so that wait can cause economic, financial difficulties for those veterans that are waiting to get the disability benefits or other benefits that they've earned. Um we do appreciate um and support your legislation. I think particularly um there are other units within VA that have this promotion ability.
▶ 0:43:00So, retaining some of those attorneys within the Board of Veterans' Appeals is going to help with that backlog.
▶ 0:43:06Yeah, I mean two things you said there. One, years. Right, we're not talking about weeks, we're not even talking about months. We're talking about years until veterans can get a decision on the benefit they have earned from putting on the uniform. I will also say you you mentioned that that only the Board of Veterans' Appeals they don't have this ability to go GS-15, others do. In fact, the Board of Veterans' Appeals is the only agency within the VA who doesn't have the ability to promote to a GS-15 and this would help with that retention. So, I appreciate you bring up those points.
▶ 0:43:35I'll ask you you know, do you think that keeping these experienced attorneys instead of constantly training and turning over people will improve decision quality and reduce the errors that force veterans back into the system? Absolutely. Okay. Well, everybody take note. That's how you answer a question. Uh other VA offices you hit on this they they already allow these non-supervisory attorneys.
▶ 0:44:00Um do you think that the board can realistically keep the attorneys it needs without this authority or do you think that passing a bill is a step in the right direction to make sure that veterans get timely, accurate decisions? Um I do think it it it would be an important change because if there are incentives for attorneys to go elsewhere, even within the department, um that that's going to be tempting for anyone who wants to have a better income. So, uh stability within the Board of Veterans Appeals is important.
▶ 0:44:31This would be an important a key way to do that. Thank you for saying that. And I just point out this is not about pay grades. This is not about internal VA bureaucracy. This is about getting veterans the benefits they've earned in a timely way. So, I appreciate your testimony. Mr. Chairman, I yield back. Gentleman, yours back yields back. Dr. Murphy, you're recognized for 5
▶ 0:44:49Thank you. I just want to say to my good friend Mr. McGarvey, as an attorney coming from a physician, you missed April 14th. That was be kind to lawyers And I And as I said when I was in the General Assembly of North Carolina, I said be kind to lawyers because they are people, too.
▶ 0:45:05So, thank you. I'll continue the litany of congratulations. Motherhood is the greatest calling of any woman. Congratulations. Uh you know, children are going to bring you heartbreak, but they're going to bring you the greatest love in your life. So, congratulations. Uh I just want to chat about a couple things. I applaud the oversight.
▶ 0:45:22You can't run a business without And sadly enough, our government tends to not do oversight very well, um and to continue a unnecessary levels of haphazard bureaucracy, which in this case leads to harm, delay, etc. just for our veterans. So, I appreciate uh concerted effort to try to cut through the morass of the uh of the ridiculous bureaucracy that we have.
▶ 0:45:45Just want to give a uh a plug for my bill HR 6583, which would establish a VA centralized research data system integrated with electronic records. I'll talk about that for a second to track major research projects, funding, progress, and outcomes across the the We don't need a haphazard system um in the VA to do this.
▶ 0:46:04We actually have a perfect model to be able to have a really concentrated system within the VA to do good research, have it tracked, and make sure it's concerted effort, and uh and that uh we do it well. The bill also would create a tiered review-based system for research. So, I'd appreciate everybody's uh support for that. I'm a researcher, done it, you know, a lot, been a scientist, etc. It's very important that we do good research within the VA.
▶ 0:46:28Um it was brought up a few minutes ago about our electronic healthcare system, and I never miss a chance to beat on the fact of the absolute ineptitude, negligence of what the VA has done with the electronic medical record system what for now 15 years. 15 years, billions of dollars, and I can't I I think it's six or seven places um that we have uh a system that actually works for electronic healthcare system. But, guess what? Help is on the way.
▶ 0:46:54And I think this is where the advent of artificial intelligence, the good part of this, will be able to be helpful at the VA. Speaking with a gentleman, a fellow physician, uh this past weekend who wants to get in and talk with the VA about streamlining a system where artificial intelligence will have uh the ability to speak directly with the veteran, have a catalog of 15, 25,000 uh questions, be able to answer veterans so there aren't calls that go unanswered, and there's the patience of Job when listening
▶ 0:47:24to an artificial intelligence. We have We have this documented within the private system already for pre-op visits. When patients call and say, "Hey, I I don't understand this." And and they go on and on and on. If we can institute this system that will then be able to query um that veteran's electronic medical record, pull data from this, and really take out the massive bureaucracy, streamline this.
▶ 0:47:48I think this will be actually earth-shattering uh for the veteran and for our our future systems to be able to cut through needless human bureaucracy, get our veterans what they need. So, I look forward to actually coming back in front of this committee, uh speaking with our VA about what would literally be the good use of AI for our veteran to cut through the the human bureaucracy that has become our VA in so many different ways. So, um thank you, Mr. Chairman.
▶ 0:48:16I'll yield back, but I think that's actually an envelope and a sunrise of hope for our veterans in the future to use technology to really help our guys now and gals and guys and gals navigate uh what is a challenging Thank you. Dr. Dexter. Thank you.
▶ 0:48:32the doctors have stayed around. It's really neat. What's that? All the doctors have stayed around. It's really neat. We're We're diligent.
▶ 0:48:38though. We are diligent. That is true. Um thank you, Chair Bost for holding this hearing and Ms. Keenan. Congratulations. I I know you're surprised to hear that, but I deeply deeply value um how hard it is to do good work and be a mom. So, thank you for doing that. Um and I also appreciate the ability I have today to speak on my bill, the Every Veteran House Act.
▶ 0:49:01I appreciate and share everyone's commitment here um to tackling veteran homelessness and hope that we will continue to work together on this issue. In Oregon and across the country, preventing and ending veteran homelessness is a top priority. Our communities believe that honoring service means ensuring every veteran has a safe and a stable place to call home. So, that's why we introduced the Every Veteran House Act. It's to remove barriers and streamline eligibility standards across VA homelessness programs.
▶ 0:49:30It'll make it easier for veterans experiencing homeless to access the full range of services that they've earned. Critically, it also expands access to those who have served in the National Guard and the Reserve, helping eliminate another obstacle um that they are facing. This legislation is a practical, targeted step that will help more veterans access housing, stabilize their lives, and reconnect with the support systems they need.
▶ 0:49:54It reflects a broader commitment to treating veteran homelessness as an ethical as well as public health issue. Ms. Keenan, you can you speak to the existing gaps in the veteran homelessness system and why it's so critical that this bill helps reach those who have historically been left Yes, thank you for that question. Um so currently um discharges other than dishonorable don't count for these programs.
▶ 0:50:20So that's that's what this would open open up um eligibility to to additional veterans. Um and that's similar to access to VA health care and disability benefits. So we see this as a a way to reach more veterans that may be in need of some of these programs. Thank you so much. And I just want to also point out that some of those less than honorably discharged veterans are struggling with exactly the issues that lead to homelessness, mental health challenges, um addiction history.
▶ 0:50:50Um it is absolutely our obligation, I would say, to close those gaps that we've created for them. And Ms. Keenan, you also highlighted in your testimony the connection between stable housing and mental health um stabilization as well as suicide prevention. How do you see the Every Veteran Housed Act advancing those goals?
▶ 0:51:13I think the more veterans that we can reach with some of these um homelessness programs, um the better that veterans that are in need can have that stability not only for themselves, for their physical and mental health, but for their families as well. Yeah. And to my colleagues on the committee, I just want to be clear that this is not going this bill would not impact um dishonorably discharged or court-martialed veterans.
▶ 0:51:40This is really less than honorable discharges, which happens to people who are serving in good faith and and just can't um finish their service for differing reasons. To my um colleagues um here who are advocating for transparency and accountability, very much appreciate that and and fully support that. I also want to make sure that we are not um removing regulations and oversight to a degree that just opens the door for further um waste, fraud, and abuse.
▶ 0:52:10And I think this is a balancing act that we all need to be diligent in um addressing together. So, thank you, Mr. Chair. I yield back. The gentlewoman yields back. Dr. Conway, you're recognized for 5 Uh thank you, Mr. Chairman, uh for recognizing me. And I thank you for holding this very important hearing.
▶ 0:52:35I am thankful for the opportunity to testify on behalf of my bill HR 8044, the Get Justice Involved Veterans Back to Back Home Act. Recent research shows that veterans with mental health conditions, particularly PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and substance uh abuse uh disorders uh stemming from their combat or service-related trauma, face significantly higher risk of entering or reentering the criminal justice system.
▶ 0:53:00Veterans with PTSD, for example, are 61% more likely to be involved with the criminal justice system uh than those without PTSD and 59% more likely to be arrested for violent offenses. And while the VA operates a program to support veterans in the community, there remains a critical gap for care for veterans who um who are in the criminal justice system.
▶ 0:53:23Since 1986, the VA has not provided health care to veterans when they are under supervision of another government agency with a duty uh to furnish care, such as prisons or A study from 2016 estimated that 107,400 veterans are serving or were serving in state and federal prison at the time. In 2016.
▶ 0:53:45While these veterans serve their time and it's important that veterans rather VA provides the necessary services to ensure that these veterans can heal, rebuild, and successfully re-enter other communities. My part of my my bipartisan bicameral bill would direct VA to carry out a pilot program to furnish mental health to incarcerated veterans via telehealth if the facility has the necessary infrastructure or through other means appropriate by the secretary including mobile mental
▶ 0:54:15health units. This is a pilot program that will occur over over five institutions within the within the prison system system in the in the United States so that we can see how it works and then and I'm as I believe it will and then move it forward to increase its reach.
▶ 0:54:34The bill directs the VA to prioritize veterans with service connected disability ratings related to PTSD, traumatic brain injury, or military sexual trauma while ensuring these veterans that those veterans are being seen by VA healthcare providers.
▶ 0:54:52Note that this bill would bar VA from collecting copays from veterans participating in the program and require that upon the date of their release veterans who had their disability compensation payments reduced while in custody have their full payments restored automatically. By ensuring our veterans have access to strong mental healthcare during their we can help set them up for success after their release making it easier for them to succeed in other areas such as securing employment, securing stable housing, and more.
▶ 0:55:23I am pleased to have my colleague Representative LaChappelle co-leading this bill with me in the house and I appreciate his work on this and I'm grateful for the support of the American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America with honor, the American Correctional Association, the American Psychological Association, and the American Psychiatric Association. Uh Ms. Keenan, what are the gaps in care for incarcerated veterans and how best can we address them?
▶ 0:55:53Certainly, I hope that you'll find that this measure is an important part of filling that gap, but I appreciate your comments on on this Uh thank you for the question. Um you know, obviously there is a lack of access that incarcerated veterans are going to experience um to their their VA health care. Um so, we you know, generally like this pilot program idea.
▶ 0:56:19Um we do have some technical um suggestions on how it could be improved to really look at uh the full gamut of mental health conditions that these veterans may be experiencing outside of PTSD and the various conditions related to military sexual trauma. Well, thank you for that. And and um we are prioritizing certain conditions, but the full gamut of um of mental health challenges that veterans face certainly ought to be addressed.
▶ 0:56:48That's part of comprehensive mental health care, and to the extent that um we need to emphasize that, then I'll certainly work on that as well. Um Uh do you believe that by uh anyone can answer that providing uh one-on-one mental health counseling to justice-involved veterans who find themselves within the criminal justice system um could reduce uh recidivism and help veterans succeed after they serve their time? Absolutely.
▶ 0:57:17I think VA provides some of the best mental health care for veterans. It's um veteran-specific, and you know, they offer it through in-person appointments, but also through telemedicine. And so, I think the more veterans that we can reach regardless of their circumstances, the better off that we'll be. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I yield back. Gentleman yields back. Thank you to the first panel witnesses. You're excused, and I appreciate you being here, and thank you so much.
▶ 0:57:48And I'd like to invite the second panel of witnesses to come up, and we'll get started as soon as they switch over the name tags. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mhm.
▶ 0:58:52These are actually the same bill with All right. We would like to get started with our second panel, and on our second panel, we will hear from the following witnesses. Mr. Cole Lyle, the director of Veterans Affairs for Rehabilitation Division in the Washington, D.C. office of the American Legion. Mr.
▶ 0:59:16Mike Desmond, strategic strategic director of Government Affairs and Advocacy for Mission Roll Call. Mr. John Ritzer, uh national legislative director of Disabled American Veterans. And Mr. Morgan Brown, national legislative director for Paralyzed Veterans of America. If you would each could who could stand and would stand, we ask you to raise your right hand.
▶ 0:59:48I ask the witnesses to Yeah. Do Do you solemnly swear under penalty of perjury that the testimony you're about to provide is the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth? Thank you, and let the record reflect that the witnesses have answered in the affirmative. Now, I would like to recognize Mr. Lyle for 5 minutes for his opening remarks. Well, thank you, Mr. Chairman, uh ranking member Takano, distinguished members of the committee. On behalf of National Commander Dan K.
▶ 1:00:15Wiley and more than 1.5 million dues-paying members of the American Legion, thank you for the opportunity to appear before you today. The American Legion is a grassroots resolution-based organization. Every Every position we take begins at the local post level, uh where we offer you the lived experiences of those who have worn the The bills before us today represent a meaningful effort to modernize the Department of Veterans Affairs, improve efficiency, close long-standing gaps in care and benefits, and strengthen accountability
▶ 1:00:46at a time when demand for VA services continues to grow. The American Legion supports the majority of these measures today because they directly or indirectly advance the priorities set by our members. We are especially encouraged by efforts to make VA's health care delivery more responsive and consistent. The VISN Reform Act, for example, seeks to streamline the network structure after years of bipartisan concern with VISN organization and management.
▶ 1:01:11We support the bill and urge targeted amendments to safeguard rural and highly rural veterans, ensure thoughtful staffing decisions, and prevent any disruption in care during what is already a period of significant reorganization. Similarly, the VA National Formulary Act would ease access to necessary medication and the Leasing and Infrastructure Act would give VA tools it needs to expand facilities more quickly and cost-effectively while protecting taxpayer dollars.
▶ 1:01:39However, both of these bills run the risk of significant implementation challenges should VA not be properly We also strongly back the VA Research Reform Act which would reduce administrative burdens on research, speed the translation of discoveries into better care, and expand partnerships that bring new resources into the system. On benefits and care, several bills would close gaps that that veterans have waited far too long to see addressed.
▶ 1:02:05The Dental Care for Veterans Act recognizes that oral health is inseparable from overall health. The EVEST Act would automatically enroll eligible transitioning service members into VA care, removing one of the most frustrating barriers they face when they leave the The Every Veteran Housed Act would extend critical homelessness prevent preventative services to veterans and with other than honorable discharges who have been unfairly excluded for too And the legislation addressing acute sexual assault response would ensure every
▶ 1:02:35VA facility is equipped to treat survivors with dignity. We are also pleased to support the VA Trust Act to restore accountability around executive bonuses, the Board of Veterans Appeals Attorney Retention and Backlog Reduction Act to keep talented lawyers serving veterans, and several of the discussion drafts on toxic exposure, justice involved veterans, and EHR That said, we must be candid where we have concerns.
▶ 1:03:02We oppose the Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee Oversight Act because consolidating and sunsetting specialized committees risks removing focused voices on issues that matter deeply to specific veteran populations. We also oppose the Veterans Readiness and Employment Improvement and Accountability Act as written, particularly provisions that could penalize veterans or strip away TDIU during VR&E programs.
▶ 1:03:29And we oppose the bill that would shift key transition and employment responsibilities away from the Department of Labor, where we believe they belong. Our full written testimony, including an executive summary of positions, has been submitted for the record. The American Legion stands ready to work with this committee, VA, and our fellow stakeholders to refine these proposals so they deliver the strongest possible outcomes for the millions of veterans who rely on VA every day. Thank you again for your leadership and the opportunity to testify. I look forward to your questions.
▶ 1:03:59Thank you, Mr. Lyle. A written statement of Mr. Lyle will be entered into the hearing record. And at this time, I would like to recognize Mr. Desmond for 5 minutes for his opening remarks. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman Bost, ranking member, and distinguished members of the committee, thank you for the opportunity and the honor to testify today on behalf of Mission Roll Call and the veterans, families, and caregivers across the country whose voices we carry to Mission Roll Call conducts regular survey research focused on the issues affecting veterans' lives.
▶ 1:04:30Our work is grounded in listening to veterans and identifying where policy, systems, and lived experience can be improved. Over the past year, Mission Roll Call surveys have shown that veterans do see areas where the VA is improving, particularly in overall quality of care and certain aspects of service delivery. There is a growing sense that the system is moving in the right direction. At the same time, veterans continue to experience some challenges with access, timeliness, and consistency.
▶ 1:04:59This reauthorization effort presents an opportunity to build on that progress and address the structural issues that continue to shape how veterans experience care. What stands out in this reauthorization effort is the focus on improving the parts of the VA system veterans experience directly.
▶ 1:05:14In our surveys, veterans consistently identify access delays, inconsistency between facilities, difficulty navigating benefits and care systems, and bureaucratic friction as recurring The first area where this package strongly aligns with our data is research modernization.
▶ 1:05:32Veterans increasingly understand that promising treatments exist, particularly in areas like PTSD and traumatic brain but many believe the system moves too slowly translating research into practical care. Our polling shows strong support for evaluating innovative therapies, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Legislation that improves coordination, standardizes data, and accelerates implementation helps move research closer to veterans.
▶ 1:05:56The faster we align the right solution with a veteran's need, the more likely that veteran is to Second is formulary and access reform. Our TBI and health care access surveys consistently identified difficulty accessing specialized care as a major Veterans frequently report that distance and system barriers affect access to appointments, medications, and treatment Efforts that improve transparency and standardize access across the system directly address issues that veterans repeatedly identify in our surveys.
▶ 1:06:28Third is infrastructure and regional In our veterans and family survey, nearly half of respondents reported delays in VA health care services, and veterans reported an average drive time of more than 50 minutes to reach the nearest VA facility. For many rural veterans, that distance becomes a barrier to care. Modernizing leasing, infrastructure delivery, and regional oversight goes beyond administrative reform and directly affects how quickly veterans can access care.
▶ 1:06:54As we examine reauthorizing multiple aspects of the VA systems, we also want to connect these efforts to the concept of left of clinical. Too often our systems wait until problems can only be solved in clinical settings before meaningful intervention After decades of tracking veteran suicide data, outcomes are not We devote more resources every year, yet the trend remains concerning.
▶ 1:07:19We must look at this problem At Mission Roll Call, we refer to this as left of clinical, supporting veterans before challenges escalate into crisis. Our April 2026 transition survey found many veterans did not fully understand available VA benefits at separation, were not clearly offered enrollment opportunities, and received little meaningful follow-up after leaving As a result, too many veterans enter civilian life without a clear path forward, and begin to struggle with housing, employment, housing, employment, identity, and stability.
▶ 1:07:50The structure and support network that existed during service is no longer there, and they report difficulty rebuilding it. That gap is where risk Outside the reauthorization package, Mission Roll Call sees alignment with several bipartisan bills before the committee focused on prevention, transition, and long-term stability. Our data shows that instability during transition overlaps with financial instability, housing insecurity, delayed access to care, and worsening mental health outcomes.
▶ 1:08:18The INVEST Act addresses one of the key barriers identified in our surveys. Many veterans do not know where to begin accessing Automatic enrollment reduces that friction at the point of transition. The Safe Steps for Veterans Act reflects the importance of upstream intervention. Preventive measures, home modifications, and mobility support reduce downstream health decline and help veterans maintain their independence.
▶ 1:08:43Mission Roll Call survey data shows significant concerns surrounding housing affordability and homelessness risk among veterans. Reforms that can improve access and consistency, while engaging veterans earlier, will strengthen trust in the systems they rely upon to serve Thank you again for the honor and the opportunity to testify today and for the committee's continued work on behalf of veterans and their families. Thank you, Mr. Desmond. The written statement of Mr. Desmond will be entered into the hearing record and I would like to now recognize Mr.
▶ 1:09:11Ritzer for 5 minutes for his opening remarks. Chairman Bost, ranking member Takano, and members of the committee, thank you for the opportunity to testify today on behalf of DAV on very important pieces of legislation. First, I want to start off with DAV strongly supports the Dental Care for Veterans Act, which would expand dental care to all enrolled veterans because dental care is health care.
▶ 1:09:34Today, only 2.4 million veterans qualify for dental care, leaving millions, including service-disabled veterans, without dental coverage to treat gum tooth decay, jaw conditions that cause pain, infection, and a lot of times difficulty eating and even Untreated oral disease also increases and impacts the risk of service-connected conditions and other conditions like heart disease, diabetes, kidney problems, and even
▶ 1:10:04These are medical issues. They're not cosmetic ones. It's time for Congress and VA to make medical or dental care part of the standard medical benefits package. Because VA's dental clinics are already this expansion will require more staff, treatment space, and community care to avoid displacing current patients. So, done right though, this bill would close a major gap in care that veterans have earned.
▶ 1:10:36DAV also supports the Veterans Economic Opportunities and Transition Administration Act, which would create a fourth administration. Veterans should not have to navigate a disconnected programs while rebuilding their lives after service.
▶ 1:10:50Fragmented VA programs for education, training, rehabilitation, employment, entrepreneurship, and even housing create confusion and delays when veterans are trying to stabilize their This bill will bring these programs together under one accountable administration led by the under A unified structure could improve policy alignment, and service delivery for veterans pursuing education, employment, and ultimately long-term
▶ 1:11:22DAV opposes the VA the the research reform act, which would make major changes to the VA research enterprise, a system that has operated operated successfully for more than 50 years. VA's research depends on collaboration among VA medical centers, academic affiliates, and nonprofit research groups. This bill would centralize control through new reporting rules and put sensitive data at risk and deter outside investments.
▶ 1:11:51Research quality depends on flexibility, local expertise, and scientific independence. We urge the committee to pursue reforms that strengthens what reduce administrative burdens, and invest in workforce infrastructure, rather than impose structural changes that could destabilize a proven system that benefits veterans and not just veterans, all Americans.
▶ 1:12:17DAV has serious concerns with the Veterans Readiness and Employment Act, especially section 9, which would deny individual unemployability benefits to vocational rehabilitation programs that veterans For many veterans, individual unemployability benefits provide housing and food security needs while they prepare to enter into or for employment.
▶ 1:12:42This legislation would force veterans to lose financial stability before rehabilitation is even assessed as being successful. This is a financial not rehabilitation. VA has warned that this rule could force veterans to leave the program. Rehabilitation should lead to independence, not harm a veteran or their family.
▶ 1:13:04DAV will oppose any bill with this provision or similar proposals that reduce benefits for service-disabled DAV has no resolution on the number of organizations of VISNs, and we have no position on the VISN Reform Act. But, we do want to share concerns about the ongoing reorganization of VHA.
▶ 1:13:26Last year, VA reduced its workforce by 30,000 positions, even though it still had more than 40,000 unfilled healthcare positions. VA's new budget proposal makes dramatic shifts from VA's provided direct care to private sector care, with less than 2% increase in the VA care, but more than 50% for community care, even as VA acknowledges a, quote, "growing demand for direct care."
▶ 1:13:58VA reduced its 10-year strategic capital investment planning estimate for a healthcare infrastructure by more than While moving ahead with 10-year $1 community care contract. Taken together, these decisions leave VA with less internal capacity and greater reliance on outside care.
▶ 1:14:19DAV believes veterans need strong, integrated VA healthcare system, where community care supports VA, but does not replace it. That concludes my statement, Chairman, and I'm pleased to answer any questions you may have.
▶ 1:14:34Thank you, Mr. Roehser. Um, the written statement of Mr. Roehser will be entered into the hearing record. Finally, I would like to recognize Mr. Brown for 5 minutes for his opening All right. Thank you, Chairman Bost, Ranking Member Takano, and members of the committee. PVA thanks you for the opportunity to testify on some of the pending legislation that is before the committee today.
▶ 1:14:56Congress exercises its constitutional Article 1 authority through the authorizations and appropriations VA funding and program authorizations are handled by the appropriate committees. However, reauthorization of existing programs does not occur on a regular cadence, and program authorization is often decoupled from Last year, this committee embarked on an effort to establish a must-pass authorization bill process for the VA that's similar to the same process
▶ 1:15:26used to approve the National Defense Authorization Act. We are generally supportive of efforts to establish a formal process like the NDAA, but we have some concerns about how it will affect access to the services and benefits that catastrophically disabled veterans depend on. Many currently recognize that the current defense authorization and appropriations process is broken.
▶ 1:15:51Politization and disagreements over policy have led to delays in passing both the NDAA and the defense appropriations bills. This has resulted in many temporarily authorized programs expiring or being delayed as a result of congressional inaction. So, we don't want veterans to be subjected to the same delays that military service members experience.
▶ 1:16:14We do feel the veteran service organizations should be included in the conversations leading to the development of a new process, so we greatly appreciate the opportunity to participate in this discussion today. That said, here's some quick thoughts on a few of the bills being discussed The VA National Formulary Act creates the statutory direction for VA's national drug formulary and establishes two oversight committees.
▶ 1:16:41It standardizes timelines for reviewing non-formulary drug requests and medication additions. PVA supports consistency and timely medication access for veterans, but we are concerned that the new committee structure may add bureaucracy and the tiered co-pays could increase costs for veterans requiring specialized The VA Research Reform Act creates a centralized VA research management system with tiered review processes and standardize approval timelines.
▶ 1:17:11It also establishes clinical research hubs and requires reporting on implementation outcomes. We are confirmed concerned that this bill could undermine scientific independence and deprioritize basic research and disadvantage SEID research serving smaller veteran To be clear, PVA supports improving accountability, ensuring that research translates into real benefits for veterans.
▶ 1:17:40Most important, we support creating bench-to-bedside funding mechanisms to move discoveries into clinical care faster. PVA strongly supports the Veterans Economic Opportunity and Transition Administration Act. This legislation creates a new administration focused on education, employment, transition, VR&E, and housing adaptation programs. We feel this would increase visibility, oversight, staffing support, and innovation for these programs.
▶ 1:18:10It would also improve collaboration with other federal workforce and transition programs while allowing VBA to focus better on disability claims processing. PVA opposes much of the Veterans Readiness and Employment Improvement Act because we believe it adds bureaucracy and could unnecessarily delay the delivery of benefits.
▶ 1:18:31The bill could reduce access for catastrophically disabled veterans, weaken counselor expertise standards, create inequities in housing allowances, and potentially harm veterans receiving Dental care is also critical to overall all health and wellness. So, we strongly support the Dental Care for Veterans Act. VA's current eligibility rules leave many veterans without access to needed dental services.
▶ 1:18:58The bill would expand VA dental care eligibility to align dental care with broader medical services. And finally, we support the E-VEST Act with auto which automatically enrolls veterans into VA health care. We believe the transition from active duty to civilian life should be seamless, and this legislation helps facilitate that Thank you again for the opportunity to testify today, and I'll be happy to answer any questions you may have. Thank you, Mr. Brown.
▶ 1:19:28The written statement of Mr. Brown will be entered into the hearing record. We will proceed now with questionings, and I yield myself 5 minutes. Um Mr. Lyle, uh how would coordination not only with the VA, but with other agencies drive innovation or innovative research that can scale uh implementation and Well, thank you, Mr. Chairman.
▶ 1:19:55Uh the American Legion has supported the the Research Reform Act because uh we believe it's a important and necessary step to to streamline uh interagency cooperation. Um there there is uh some question about the research hubs and how that would fit into VISN reorganization.
▶ 1:20:14Uh but overall, anytime you can have the VA work with CDC, NIH on things ranging from uh particular health care issues, suicide prevention, things like that, and and have notable outcomes, you know, I I share some concern about a particular section.
▶ 1:20:34Some research does not necessarily have actual outcomes that are that are measurable, much like the the basic research that's done at DOD, that's foundational research. So, we would like to see a amendment to that particular section. But other than that, we we very much support this bill.
▶ 1:20:53Thank you. Mr. Desmond, the leasing and construction bill would expedite the process for building VA clinics and hospitals. Can you discuss what you have seen through the surveys on the impact that care delays on Thank you for the question, Mr. Chairman.
▶ 1:21:13Uh we have not done a survey specific to that question, but we can tell you that when there are challenges for veterans to get to the facilities that they need to find their care, then that is reflected in all of our surveys. So, to the degree that we can speed up, which is generally the messaging we get across all of our surveys, is what can we do faster and better on behalf of veterans. So, the degree we can speed up that process and be more effective with it to deliver that care in ways that make veterans' lives easier and more stable, then it's certainly a priority for them. Mr.
▶ 1:21:43Desmond, do you believe that the current configuration of the VISN system is insufficient for veterans right now? Based on our survey data, absolutely, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Ritzer, why is it important for prosthetic and uh sensory aid services to have a schedule as opposed to one of the new technologies added
▶ 1:22:15Thank you for that question. I think it's very important as we look at prosthetics and sensory aid devices that they're constantly and steadily moving forward and available to our veterans. As we see the aging veteran population, for example, their needs for hearing devices are continue to increase. So we have to make sure that innovation is staying in line with what their needs are and are available at the ready and you know, that they continue the process.
▶ 1:22:39And also with prosthetic is so important cuz DEV as we continue to do the rehabilitation program in our campaigns and also our winter sports games, it's so important that the prosthetics innovations moves forward and to be able to facilitate the various needs not just for the general living, but also to be able to have quality of life experience. Thank you. Mr.
▶ 1:23:00Brown, how can VA improve its current delivery of infrastructure projects when it when constantly has to deal with uh and um the lag that they're dealing with right Uh I presume that Mr. Chairman that you mean the insufficient funding Yes.
▶ 1:23:20uh and and insufficient staff. Um well, we're seeing the outcome uh right now as you know, um the average age of a VA facility, I want to say 50, maybe it's mighty I may be wrong, it may be 60 years. Um certainly many of our facilities, the spinal cord injury and disorder centers um fall into that category.
▶ 1:23:45Um so the absence of funding um definitely means that the facilities are aging, they're no longer suitable to accommodate um a sufficient number of patients. Uh we still have some many facilities with four patient rooms which complicates the situation, the availability of beds when we have like infection Okay, one more quick follow up there.
▶ 1:24:14What what is the issue with OMB's current cost methodology for VA major medical construction projects? Ooh, um that's a good question. If you don't mind, I'd like to take that one for the record. Okay, thank you very much. I um So, I yield back, but I now recognize Representative Ramirez, uh who is both the ranking member holding spot right now, as well as herself. So, she can question in which you both everyone she wants to ask.
▶ 1:24:40Thank you, uh Chairman, and uh really grateful for the Illinois representation in this moment. Minnesota, you're a little outnumbered here. Uh I just want to thank the witnesses for being here today, and frankly, the work that you do every single day to make sure that everything we do centers veterans. I really appreciate you. I've memorized that number, and I often say it five, six times a day.
▶ 1:25:07That's the number of veterans that I And ensuring that a veterans have every single benefit that's been promised to them is a top priority for me. It's why I'm in this committee. Access to affordable, quality education is also one of those benefits. The GI Bill has been a critical, important policy that makes it possible for educational opportunities uh of affordable and accessible uh education to veterans.
▶ 1:25:31However, as we know, in recent years, student veterans have been the target of bad actors seeking to enrich themselves by exploiting veterans GI Bill benefits. And as we know, these bad actors have reduced veterans to a tuition payment and exploited them to gain access to a dependable federal disbursement. Not only is that unacceptable to me, it's criminal.
▶ 1:25:52When a student veteran's defrauded by predatory institutions, it's only right, only just that the veteran has a recourse or a way to get their benefits No student veteran should have to give up or defer their dreams on education because they were defrauded.
▶ 1:26:07It's why I proudly reintroduced the Student Veterans Benefit Restoration Act of 2025, which would restore GI Bill benefits to students who have been But we also know that the bill moved up just a step closer to having comparable restoration process to those that govern the federal benefits of non-veteran We have more work to do to protect our veterans from bad faith actors and ensure that every opportunity to live a meaningful, thriving, and joyful life post service is available for them.
▶ 1:26:35It's why I'm glad that we're having this hearing and hearing specifically from veteran service organizations today. When I first introduced the bill back in what feels like a hundred years ago, last Congress in the 118th Congress, I was proud that it included a grandfather clause so that all veterans have a path to recourse. However, as it moved through committee provision and as we did some of the bipartisan negotiations, we were unfortunately forced to strip away that component. So, Mr. Redcer, Mr. Brown, Mr.
▶ 1:27:04Lyle, would you support the inclusion of a retroactive clause in this legislation? And if so, why? And I'll start with Mr. Thank you for the question. Absolutely, we would support an amendment. It's included in our our written statement veterans who have been defrauded by these institutions deserve Thank you. Uh Mr. Desmond.
▶ 1:27:36Thank you for the question.
▶ 1:27:37didn't put you on the list, but go ahead. Yes, do you Would you support
▶ 1:27:40Yes, absolutely. Absolutely would. We see education as a component of stability, particularly post service stability. So, being able to support a program such as this that ensures that veterans who are defrauded in this situation are
▶ 1:27:53Yes, to go back to school. Yeah, that's great. Mr. Redcer and Mr. Brown. Yes, thank you for that question. And yes, we we would support that amendment because obviously when we look at the restoration of these benefits and we know how the education benefits are, they're timed. They have time limits and there are also caps on the budget. So, we want to ensure that our veterans get back all of their benefits and be able to use them. Thank you, Mr. Brown. I was going to say I would concur with all the recommendations that have been previously given by my peers.
▶ 1:28:23the one thing that I would note is that we're acknowledging that that fraud has taken place. So, why wouldn't we want to recover those costs? And that I believe prior versions of the bill uh CBO had scored it as zero cost because we were attempting to recover and we would support that. Thank you, Mr. Brown. I think that's exactly right. I heard from a lot of veterans after we passed the bill.
▶ 1:28:50Some of them very thankful that veterans moving forward would not be defrauded, would have an opportunity to be able to get their benefits back. But, I also heard from veterans who are really angry, angry at me, angry at Congress, and asking "What about us? I want to go back to I want to be able to finish my It has to be retroactive. That's only the only real way that justice is served for all of us. So, I really appreciate your responses and I hear you loud and clear.
▶ 1:29:17And I hope to work with with the chairman and with my colleagues here as well to ensure that the retroactive component be a critical measure that's included in the bill moving forward. So, with that, Chairman, I yield back. The gentle lady yields back. Dr. Morrison, you are recognized for 5 minutes for your questions. Thank you, Mr. Chair.
▶ 1:29:34An estimated one in three female veterans and one in 50 male veterans in the Department of Veterans Affairs healthcare system reported experiencing sexual assault or harassment in the Military sexual trauma has profound effects on veterans and risk for sexual assault persists beyond a veteran's time in uniform.
▶ 1:29:53With symptoms, reactions, and long-term consequences that are already independently difficult to navigate, additional barriers or gaps to accessing appropriate care following a sexual assault can inflict further harm on veterans receiving care at VA Additionally, conditions like PTSD, depression, other mood disorders, and substance use disorders closely associated with MST and sexual assault compelled proactive actions to ensure appropriate referrals to mental health I'm proud to be leading H.R.
▶ 1:30:235203, the VA Safe Care Act, to continue the work of advancing VA's exceptional care to veterans by equipping VA medical facilities with the appropriate tools to support and care for veterans that have experienced sexual assault. This critical legislation would strengthen the VA's guidance for treating veterans seeking care following sexual assault, ensuring that veteran survivors are protected. Specifically, the bill strengthens the referral processes to community providers for facilities without a sexual assault nurse examiners on staff.
▶ 1:30:54It makes sure facilities with um SANEs have a supply of rape kits, make sure veterans receive prophylaxis for STIs or pregnancy when appropriate, improves mental health and law enforcement referrals, and improves training for appropriate clinical providers and VA police.
▶ 1:31:10This bill recognizes VA's unique position to provide specialized veteran care and helps make sure no veteran's physical health, mental health, or safety falls through the cracks as they navigate the incredible incredibly difficult aftermath of a sexual assault. The VA Safe Care Act is a tailored approach to ensuring the VA has the best practices and protocols in place to respond in the event a veteran is seeking care following an acute sexual assault. Uh so, Mr.
▶ 1:31:37Lyle, in your organization's experience with working with veteran populations, why is ensuring trust and appropriate care coordination of particular importance in the context of supporting veterans by sexual assault impacted by sexual assault? Well, thank you, Congresswoman.
▶ 1:31:54Uh one of the reasons we supported the bill, the 72-hour uh requirement, obviously that's critical for uh uh preventative care uh and uh evidence women and men that are going through an acute sexual assault um deserve the best care and the fastest care possible.
▶ 1:32:16Um any way that we can streamline that either to a community provider or for same providers in the VA system, and standardize that care and that training for uh trauma-informed response is going to improve outcomes in every other uh avenue of their stability and their health care. Agreed. Thank you for that response. Uh Mr. Redser and Mr. Brown, I'd ask both of you a similar question. Why are updated protocols important for survivors of sexual assault seeking care at VA facilities?
▶ 1:32:47Thank you for that question. I think what we see is that too many survivors encounter very inconsistent and inadequate emergency care. And they got to be able to have all the facilities and the staffing that's appropriate with the training and the resources and equipment there available at the time. And then when we're in the world right now trying to address mental health issues, that's another stability point that we have to make sure that we meet that need of that survivor to be able to provide that.
▶ 1:33:11So, I think timely access as we look at it with the necessary necessary medical um treatments are there, will really have to be sufficient and timely in a sense that it meets the individual's need. Thank you, Mr. Brown. So, I think I can agree with my my peers' comments here on this bill.
▶ 1:33:33One element that I may not have been considered already, um I'm going to rely on my prior law enforcement experience that having served as a law enforcement patrolman, having standardized procedures, knowing exactly what to do and when, making sure that the right people were there, having the right qualifications of, you know, the the counselors to uh to be brought in at the appropriate time made the job of dealing with the situation
▶ 1:34:03much easier and it ensured that the victims' best interests were Thank you, Mr. Brown. I I appreciate the support for VA SAFE Care Act has received far so far from critical partners like the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, Vietnam Veterans of America, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, and Paralyzed Veterans of America.
▶ 1:34:26As the demographics of the country's veteran population have evolved and shifted for decades, VA and veteran service organizations have worked with Congress to update programs and resources to meet veterans where they find themselves in the present moment. For veterans impacted by sexual assault, this collaboration can continue building on efforts to combat the prevalence of military sexual trauma and guarantee veterans have access to the care that they need.
▶ 1:34:50I hope my fellow committee members can join me in supporting this important legislation to ensure the delivery of compassionate of the compassionate comprehensive care that veterans deserve. With that, Mr. Chair, I yield back. I'm going to hold for just a moment. We understand the ranking member who's going to deliver his closing statement is in the elevator. Maybe that's clogged right now. I don't know. Give us just a moment, but thank you. The lady yields back.
▶ 1:35:31I've got some other questions that might I tell you what, no, I'm just going to go off statements here just in talking in general. You know, we um would you all of you agree that we do need to move forward with reauthorization since the 1990s most of it That was the last time we did it. And would everybody agree with that? But we would seek your advice along with other those of us that would all work together. And that's, you know, why we had this hearing even though it was a you know, requested and that's that's been in the statement that the minority requested.
▶ 1:36:01We make a sure we're going to have a your input and everything as we always Uh we will agree on most things. We may disagree, but that's the importance of you representing your members who is who we represent. So, uh with that I'm going to recognize the the ranking member for his closing Oh, for questions. That's right. I'm I was really looking for that closing statement. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Uh
▶ 1:36:31Thank you very much. I appreciate the your courtesy. Um I'd like to start off uh with Mr. Mr. Lyle, um I appreciated your testimony on HR 67 64, the Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee Oversight Act of 2025, which would eliminate the 16 advisory committees at VA.
▶ 1:36:51And I share your concerns about how consolidating uh advisory committees would greatly diminish the ability of veterans to engage directly with VA about the issues that matter um most uh to them. Uh Mr. Lyle, can you talk about the importance of a few of the advisory committees that this bill would Well, thank you, ranking member Takano.
▶ 1:37:12for example, the the Women Veterans Advisory Committee, the Tribal and Indian Affairs Advisory Committee, uh the Homeless Veteran Advisory Committee all have very unique uh voices in not just the legislative, but the regulatory process. Um and being able to offer those unique needs is important for consideration by VA or by Congress as they're moving forward on on some of the issues that are unique to their populations.
▶ 1:37:39Yeah. Well, can you talk with specifically about how combining the advisory committees for minority veterans, women veterans, tribal and Indian veterans, homeless veterans, and others could reduce attention on specific issues while lessening representation, better representation of the VA. Absolutely. Thank you, sir. Um you know, there is there is some merit uh to administrative efficiency, but you you risk losing focus on specific issues, like I said, unique to those uh individual populations.
▶ 1:38:07So, theoretically, by consolidating the committees, if you had one person with background in all of those specific areas, um they could speak to those things, but you would lose the individual focus that those advisory committees can provide. And, you know, each one of those I mean, the issues that are facing each group are numerous and com- and complex.
▶ 1:38:30And so, uh just the the number of ex- the amount of expertise and experts you can assemble under one committee um really can't be a substitute for separate committees that will have more extensive expertise. Um is that not the Yes, sir.
▶ 1:38:48Um you know, if you consolidate, you could have individuals that represent each of those populations, but that one person that's representing that population in the consolidated advisory committee would not encompass the entire depth and breadth of experience with people on uh an individual committee that that is focused on that one particular issue.
▶ 1:39:08So, for for women veterans, for example, uh you have one representative on this uh combined advisory committee versus a dedicated uh women advisory committee for on on veterans, women veterans, uh which would have uh an array of experts, whether it's in the specific challenges that women have women veterans have in getting housing with their children often. Uh you know, trauma and abuse.
▶ 1:39:38Uh you know, any any number of reasons why and then the specific health needs. Uh Uh one expert is not going to be I think sufficient to cover um the complexity and the as you said the depth and breadth. Um Does combining these special populations into a single advisory committee make sense to you? Um you know, I mean we already kind of covered that. Um Mr. Brown, I read your testimony on 6904, HR 6904, the Veteran Readiness uh the VR&E Accountability Act.
▶ 1:40:09And it sounds like PVA has major concerns with Mr. Van Orden's legislation as you pointed out problems in every section of the bill. Could you highlight a few issues with the legislation that the committee should be aware of? Yes, I can. Um first and foremost, we appreciate the increased attention um related to VR&E. We still feel that this bill kind of skirts around the edges of the problem.
▶ 1:40:34Sections 2 and 3 of the bill are unnecessary because VR&E uh or I should say VA already has statutory authority over those
▶ 1:40:44Um allowing vocational rehabilitation specialist to do the work of a vocational rehabilitation counselor, which is covered in section 6, would never be something that PVA supports. Um employment counseling for veterans with significant disabilities is a core mission of VR&E and that education level is critical for PVA members in particular who have a higher level of need than an able-bodied veteran.
▶ 1:41:11saying that a regional office should have an an employment coordinator um which is mentioned in section 8 without the additional approval of FTE workforce, uh you know, the workforce to perform the task, uh would negatively impact the work of counselors. Um They should be shouldn't be competing positions. They should be working together.
▶ 1:41:36And then finally in section 9, uh which is particularly alarming to us, it is unclear as written if it would bar veterans from applying for VR&E once on individual unemployability or if it would strip them of IU if a veteran were accepted into VR&E. Either situation would be unacceptable.
▶ 1:41:57Yeah, I'm going to yield back in just a bit, but you know, the bill doesn't address staffing. I mean, there's a huge shortage of That's a big concern, right? That is correct. So that doesn't The bill doesn't even address that. That's the That's the huge central issue, I think, of our our challenge with VR&E. And you would agree with that. Yes, sir. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I yield back. Yield back, and let me yield to you if you had any closing No closing. Okay. Thank you.
▶ 1:42:25Now, I want to thank the witnesses for joining us today and with their testimony. Today's discussion makes one thing clear. Congress cannot keep operating on autopilot when it comes to the VA programs and the authorities. VA must reflect the needs of today's generation of veterans, and I'm excited to continue to work with my colleagues and with you to bring VA into the 21st century.
▶ 1:42:50Remember the last time that many of these were reauthorized was prior to September just after September 11th, some well before September 11th. Many of our proposals discussed today would do just that by bringing down a bureaucracy barriers, clarifying and strengthening existing and reinvigorating the health care to be the best it can for our veterans.
▶ 1:43:20Now, I ask unanimous consent that all members have five legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material. Hearing no objection, so ordered. The hearing is now adjourned. Thank you for being here. Thank you.