“As federal agencies and appropriators face a tough year of budget standoffs in the coming months, the Department of Veterans Affairs is preparing for its own funding battle.”
“VA in the next few months will attempt to ease concerns from some members of Congress, who fear the department won’t have enough discretionary funds to pay for the new, consolidated community care programs authorized in the VA MISSION Act — without diverting agency resources to the private sector…”
“But Democrats have, and will likely continue, to be skeptical. Rep. Mark Takano (D-Calif.), chairman of the House VA Committee, has already expressed his concerns over VA’s proposed access standards. He’ll lead a hearing Wednesday on VA’s vision for the next 10 years. Wilkie is expected to testify on the changing needs and demographics of the veteran population, but VA’s proposed access standards are sure to be a topic of discussion…” Read the full article here.
Source: VA MISSION Act funding to take center stage in upcoming 2020 budget battles – By Nicole Ogrysko, February 26, 2019. Federal News Network.
