Political Quotes

“I want to begin by thanking Chairman Takano and Ranking Member Bost for their work in putting together this comprehensive group of bills today to support our veterans, including this bill, and I appreciate their support for it. I rise in support of this legislation, the Improving VA Accountability to Prevent Sexual Harassment and Discrimination Act, a bill that I introduced, along with Representative Hinson. This bipartisan, bicameral bill will take critical steps to combat sexual harassment by updating VA's antiquated policies and structure, in addition to creating stronger reporting requirements. We know that at least 1 in 4 women and 1 in 10 men who have served in the military are survivors of sexual assault, harassment, or abuse. At the VA, we know that at least 1 in 4 women veterans and 1 in 4 women employees experience sexual harassment in healthcare settings. It is simply unacceptable that someone who has proudly served our Nation is subjected to sexual harassment in the institution whose charge it is to serve them. It is long past time for us to make systemic change at the VA that will honor the service of our veterans and healthcare providers and keep people safe. This is commonsense legislation that came out of an Oversight and Investigation Subcommittee hearing that we held last July. We heard from the GAO and the VA on this issue.…”