Tsongas Issues Statement on House Passage of VA Compromise

Congresswoman Niki Tsongas released the following statement after the House of Representatives approved a bipartisan agreement reached between the House and Senate on legislation to reform and strengthen the Department of Veterans Affairs by a vote of 420-5:

“The health and wellbeing of our veterans and servicemembers is a moral responsibility and a national priority. The appalling reports of misconduct and mismanagement at the Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities made clear the need for action, and the agreement passed today demonstrates that where there is a will, there is a way.

“This bill will fund the hiring of more doctors and health care professionals and it will authorize funding for additional health clinics, including one here in Massachusetts. Additionally, it will take steps to strengthen support for survivors of military sexual assault. Importantly, it will also provide recently confirmed VA Secretary Bob McDonald with the authority to hold accountable those who are serving in such critical roles at the VA.

“This is an important first step so that changes are put in place to ensure veterans are receiving the timely and quality care they have earned and deserve.

“We owe a sacred promise to the men and women who have served our nation in uniform: just as the military leaves no one behind on the battlefield, we will leave no veteran behind when they come home. Our veterans were willing to give everything to serve our country and protect freedom around the world. Now, we must do everything we can to serve them.”