Sen. Richard Blumenthal said administration officials aren't providing basic information to Congress on looming plans for massive changes. Advocates hope to restart momentum in Congress this year on the Major Richard Star Act. Congress last year passed legislation designed to simplify the process for veterans seeking medical help outside the VA health care system. Upgrading a Qatar-donated 747 into a new Air Force One would take a large sum of money and years to complete, aviation experts said. Cheryl Mason's shift from administration insider to department watchdog elicited concerns about her ability to be an independent voice on VA operations. Congressional fights over plans to cut tens of thousands of VA staffers hinge on lawmakers' views on just how dysfunctional the department is. The move follows an order by President Donald Trump to look for evidence of discrimination against Christians throughout the federal government. Democratic lawmakers vow to block bills, slow nominations and hold their own hearings to protest planned cuts to veterans programs. Software handling timecards for VA employees has been malfunctioning for nearly a week, prompting concerns about paycheck delays. The move comes as VA Secretary Doug Collins has accused Democrats of creating panic over planned department reforms. Load More
