WC Wisconsin News

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Derrick Van Orden and Congressman Chris Pappas have introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at improving accountability at the Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA). The Training Responsible And Informed National (TRAIN) VA Employees Act is designed to establish new management training for VA supervisors, management officials, and senior executives.

In a statement, Congressman Van Orden expressed his appreciation for the work done by the VA for veterans and their families, stating, "It is important that we continue to do our due diligence to our veterans by ensuring VAs are operating at the highest standard possible." He further added, "I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing the TRAIN VA Employees Act to require regularly scheduled trainings for Veterans' Affairs supervisors, which will strengthen VAs across the nation to best serve our veterans."

Congressman Pappas also emphasized the need for additional management training for VA supervisors. He stated, "I'm pleased to introduce this bipartisan bill with Congressman Van Orden which will strengthen workforce training for VA management and, as a result, improve services provided to veterans."

The TRAIN VA Employees Act includes several key provisions aimed at enhancing accountability and performance management within the VA. It would require the VA to develop a mandatory training program for VA management within one year of enactment. This training would be mandatory for all current and future employees covered under the legislation.

Additionally, the legislation would require VA management to participate in the training every two years. The training program would focus on important topics such as developing performance goals and objectives with employees, effectively managing employees with unacceptable performance, and understanding disciplinary options and procedures available to supervisors, among others.

The goal of the TRAIN VA Employees Act is to ensure that VA managers are well-equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively lead their teams and provide the best possible services to veterans. By establishing regular and comprehensive management training, the legislation aims to improve accountability and performance within the VA.

As the legislation moves forward, Congressman Van Orden and Congressman Pappas are hopeful that their bipartisan efforts will garner support from their colleagues in Congress. By prioritizing accountability and management training, they aim to strengthen the VA and ultimately better serve the needs of veterans and their families.

The introduction of the TRAIN VA Employees Act is a significant step towards improving management accountability at the VA. With the support of both Congressman Van Orden and Congressman Pappas, it is hoped that this bipartisan legislation will pave the way for positive change within the VA, ensuring that veterans receive the highest standard of care and support they deserve.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://vanorden.house.gov/media/press-releases/van-orden-pappas-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-improve-va-management