House Republicans released a video Monday featuring military veterans in their caucus with a critical message for the embattled Department of Veterans Affairs.
“This is a day of remembrance and honoring those who paid the ultimate sacrifice,” Rep. Jeff Denham, R-Calif., said. “But for the last several years far too often we’re spending our time talking about the inadequacies of the VA.”
The video comes amidst reports of continued problems plaguing the VA as federal authorities are now investigating continued drug thefts at the agencies hospitals.
Federal authorities have opened dozens of new criminal investigations into potential drug and opioid theft by Department of Veterans Affairs hospital employees, the Associated Press reported Monday.
According to the new report, 36 cases have been opened by the VA inspector general’s office from Oct. 1 through May 19, brining the total number of open criminal investigations to 108.
The VA announced in February an initiative aimed at combating drug thefts, including employee drug testing and increased inspections.
Veterans Affairs Secretary David Shulkin also promised a more hands-on role, working directly with health facilities to develop plans to address the growing problem.
For lawmakers, the news is only fueling their calls for greater accountability at the beleaguered agency.
The Senate will vote next month on a measure that will give the VA “the tools necessary to remove employees who are failing to perform at the high-quality level.”
