On the recordJune 21, 2019
Woman, I thank Chairwoman Wasserman Schultz and Ranking Member Carter for their work on this legislation. Madam Chair, I rise in support of en bloc package 1, which includes my amendment to H.R. 3055 to help address critical staffing shortages at the VA. Madam Chair, we in Congress have no higher obligation than to care for our veterans who had our backs, and that starts with making sure they have the resources they need when they come home. The number of unfilled positions at the VA has grown steadily, and currently it is nearly at 49,000 across the entire VA system. Madam Chair, 49,000 vacancies is a huge problem that we must tackle. One constituent in my district, an 89-year-old, has been waiting on the adjudication of his appeal to the VA for more than a year. That is absurd. When we called the VA to inquire, we were told: ``This is just how long it takes.'' Madam Chair, the Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies looked closely at this issue and stated that the committee is concerned that the significant number of vacancies will lead to longer waits for veterans going without service. I agree. We must address this problem and address it quickly. Our veterans don't have time for longer waits for doctor appointments, mental health crises, housing assistance, and so much more. Our veterans deserve better, and I am proud to offer this amendment.
