Paralyzed Veterans of America Applauds Passage of VA Accountability Bill

Long-awaited legislation reduces burden of proof to terminate VA employees

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Jun 13, 2017, 21:24 ET

WASHINGTON, June 13, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Paralyzed Veterans of America (Paralyzed Veterans) National President Al Kovach, Jr. today commends the U.S. Congress for passing the "VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act," which will heighten accountability at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA); and ease restrictions that have protected VA employees exhibiting or condoning underperformance, negligence and/or criminal behaviors:

"Paralyzed Veterans of America applauds the House and Senate for final passage of this bill," said National President Al Kovach, Jr. "Our organization has led the charge for the need for meaningful accountability at the VA from the beginning, and we are gratified to see the U.S. Congress placing a priority on the quality of workers caring for our veterans and the VA facilities. We do not believe this could have happened as efficiently as it did without Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Phil Roe's stewardship, and we thank him for his support of America's veterans.

Paralyzed Veterans is the only veterans' organization that conducts regular site visits in VA medical centers. We meet with clinical staff and patients regularly, and we have seen firsthand the negative impact of weak accountability. We look forward to President Trump's swift signature, and Secretary Shulkin's leadership in implementing the new accountability office."

President Trump is expected to sign the legislation into law later this week.

About Paralyzed Veterans
Paralyzed Veterans of America is the only congressionally chartered veterans service organization dedicated solely for the benefit and representation of veterans with spinal cord injury or disease. For 70 years, we have ensured that veterans have received the benefits earned through their service to our nation; monitored their care in VA spinal cord injury units; and funded research and education in the search for a cure and improved care for individuals with paralysis.

As a partner for life, Paralyzed Veterans also develops training and career services, works to ensure accessibility in public buildings and spaces, provides health and rehabilitation opportunities through sports and recreation and advocates for veterans and all people with disabilities. With more than 70 offices and 34 chapters, Paralyzed Veterans serves veterans, their families and their caregivers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico (pva.org).