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Washington, DC –U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (TX-36) on Wednesday voted to pass the VA Accountability First and Appeals Modernization Act (H.R. 5620), legislation he cosponsored to help facilitate the removal of senior employees at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) who have failed to effectively serve our veterans.  

The bipartisan bill, which now awaits further consideration by the U.S. Senate, will also strengthen performance standards and accountability measures for VA employees, provide enhanced whistleblower protections for those who report misconduct and create a process to recoup bonuses or awards paid to certain employees.

“We had a veterans’ town hall meeting in Woodville, Texas three weeks ago and I heard firsthand from over dozens of our veterans about the specific problems they are having with VA medical care, compensation and simply not getting answers to their questions,” said Rep. Babin.  “We also heard from VA officials who encouraged veterans to file complaints with exact details on specific employees who are failing to serve with duty and respect.  It was clear to me that they wanted to fire bad employees too – and our bill will help them in that process.”

"As a veteran myself and the father of a decorated Navy SEAL, I am committed to seeing that our nation’s heroes receive the respect and treatment they have earned and deserve. Too many of our veterans are being failed by the VA.  While most VA employees are trying to do their best, far too many of them should be fired. 

"This week the House took another important step in our efforts to hold the VA accountable by passing legislation to make it easier to fire VA employees who are failing to properly care for our veterans. I was pleased that we received a veto-proof majority 310 votes for our bill.  I strongly encourage the Senate to quickly follow suit and send this bipartisan bill to the President’s desk.”