Mark Takano: “I thank the gentlewoman from New York for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to this rule and the…”

“I thank the gentlewoman from New York for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to this rule and the underlying bill. All of us, Democrats and Republicans, believe in the need for stronger accountability for employees at the VA to ensure that our veterans get the care they deserve. Unfortunately, this legislation will fall short of that goal and, in doing so, set accountability efforts back for at least a year, if not more. Our Senate colleagues have a bipartisan bill that includes accountability provisions that could serve as a foundation for legislation in the House. It doesn't mean it is perfect; it doesn't mean in its current form it would be voted out of the Senate; but it is a far more bipartisan approach than the one that is before us today. We have an opportunity to advance language that both parties in both Chambers can agree to and would contribute to a more accountable and more effective VA. H.R. 1994 and the current bill before us, H.R. 5620, both contain flawed accountability tools, tools which, if the VA used them, would likely result in adverse judgments in the courts and cost a lot of time and money pursuing with the likely result of those employees being reinstated. Democrats are ready to work with the majority to find the right path forward. That is why 75 Democratic or bipartisan amendments were submitted to the Committee on Rules. Unfortunately, only 22 amendments were made in order to be considered by the full Chamber.…”