For years, it had become increasingly evident that veterans in the United States, including those from Fayetteville, Georgia, and the surrounding area, have been victim at times to less than ideal care from the Department of Veterans Affairs. It appears that relief may soon be on the horizon however, as Congress passed the Veterans Affairs Accountability Act on Wednesday, June 14.
As the name suggests, the bill holds employees of Veterans Affairs accountable for their actions or inactions. It is not exclusive to normal employees either, as executives are to be held accountable as well. It also offers further whistleblower protections to employees who report negligence of their boss or co-workers.
The passing of the bill comes following nationwide criticism regarding the ineptitude and unsatisfactory experiences that many veterans had seen over the previous years with regards to getting treatment. The country’s second largest agency was considered corrupt and incompetent by many, resulting in veterans even dying while waiting for appointments. The act is expected to help improve conditions of the more than 1,100 facilities throughout the country. Many are singing praises of this passing, including the policy director of the Concerned Veterans for America, who suggests that veterans will see increased accountability and integrity at Veterans Affairs.
If you or a family member is still having difficulties dealing with a veterans’ disability claim, it may be in your best interests to reach out to a law firm familiar with veterans’ issues. They can work with you to get your issues resolved, and may even be able to obtain compensation for your struggles.
Source: CBS/AP, “Congress passes long-awaited Veterans Affairs Accountability Act,” June 14, 2017
