Federal legislators seek to secure the VA office to improve trust and service quality for veterans.
A bill has been introduced by Representatives Nikki Budzinski of Illinois and Julia Brownley of California to make the Veterans Experience Office (VEO) a permanent part of the Department of Veterans Affairs. Created in 2015 to gather and act on feedback from veterans, the VEO has reportedly boosted veterans’ trust in the VA by 25 percent through efforts such as a mobile app, outreach to women veterans, and improving access to care and benefits information.
Representative Budzinski highlighted that veterans often feel discouraged from seeking support due to complicated processes. She said, “By giving veterans a voice and putting their insights into action, the VEO has been instrumental in making VA services more accessible. Veterans can only receive the excellent care they deserve when their feedback is prioritized.”
The VEO intends to simplify these processes and increase access to services through consistent feedback and collaboration with veterans and their families. It has also made improvements, revamping the VA website and implementing the PACT Act, which expands health and disability benefits for veterans exposed to toxic substances. The bill would mandate continuous data reporting to Congress and requires a Government Accountability Office review of the VA’s hotline service to assess its effectiveness.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For the congresswoman as they seek to ensure the VA department provides adequate support to U.S. veterans.
- For discernment for senators and representatives as they assess the effectiveness of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Sources: Stars and Stripes, Government Executive, Military.com
