Gardner Introduces Legislation to Stop Bonuses and Clear VA Backlog

Press Release

Today, Congressman Cory Gardner (CO-04), Congressman Scott Tipton (CO-03), Congressman Doug Lamborn (CO-05) and Congresswoman Cynthia Lummis (WY-At Large) introduced legislation to prevent senior employees at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from receiving bonuses until the backlog of disability claims at the VA has been resolved. This legislation also outlines a path to clear the backlog, so America's veterans will no longer be subject to lengthy delays.

"Bonuses are typically handed out as a reward for a job well-done," said Gardner. "The problems coming out of the VA, and those reported in yesterday's Office of the Inspector General's report, deserve no reward. It's appalling that there are some high-level officials at the VA who treat our nation's heroes in this manner, yet are still rewarded with bonuses.

"It is equally important that a new system is developed to clear the backlog of cases that currently exists. This legislation is a step in the right direction, and it is my hope it will ensure that our veterans never face this type of neglect again."

Recently, Congressman Jeff Miller, Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, agreed that bonuses are part of the problem.

"It was the people who were getting the bonuses and the promotions to keep the wait times low that cannot be allowed to skate on this issue," said Chairman Miller.

Source