Jackie Walorski

We owe it to these men and women who have served and their families to ensure they are receiving treatment that thoroughly addresses their individual and unique needs.

They don't think it's right that while they are working hard to live within their means, the President is raising their taxes and encouraging the federal government to spend even more money it does not have.

Mr. Zients, there are many people in my district who are very concerned that this budget never balances.

Today we're not talking about balancing a budget for the sake of balancing a budget. The goal is not to just check a box. What we're discussing today is about more than just this procedure of a budget. We're debating the kind of future…

And my question is on this issue of accountability. What if you do not reach these goals by 2015?

What happens if you do not meet these goals of 2015? We just continue to roll along?

What is the backup plan if this VBA does not come through like it is promised to come through?

I want the 50,000 veterans back in Indiana's Second Congressional District, and the approximately 22,000,000 veterans overall in this country to know that their voices have been heard.

We have a draw-down coming which is going to be a significant influx of new veterans.

I think, in the State of Indiana, in my district, have 52,000 veterans just in my district alone.

What I would like to hear about today is a sound plan that will assist VHA in transforming into a 21st Century organization.

Veterans deserve timely, accessible, health care.

Delayed care is denied care.

Access to health care should be easy to schedule.

I find it shocking to sit and to hear these stories time and time again.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you to the panel.

The experience these veterans have faced are inexcusable and should not have to happen to our Nation's finest.

We owe it to Hoosier veterans; we owe it to veterans throughout this Nation for all that they have sacrificed.

This is an issue that is not partisan. This is an issue about the respect that we give to those that risk their entire lives.

Today, hardworking Hoosier families sit around their kitchen tables and make tough decisions to keep a balanced budget. The Federal Government should do the same thing. In the State of Indiana, we were able to balance our budget and get…

Can you explain how we are to believe this when the VA has failed to make simple changes based upon recommendations going back as far as 1981?

What actions has VA taken and/or is VA planning to take to provide medical facilities with more specific guidance on how to develop appropriate staffing plans?

I am indebted to these men and women for their sacrifice in protecting this great Nation.

I thank you for holding this hearing on such an important issue facing our Nation's veterans.

Finally, I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the dedication of the VA employees who provide quality mental health care to our veterans every day.