The $826.5 billion spending plan is likely to face strong resistance from the White House and Senate Democrats. VA hospitals across the country have suffered from acute nursing shortages for years. The $320 billion spending plan includes numerous provisions Democrats decried as political attacks on veterans. A staffing shortage at U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa means pregnant women at Kadena Air Base may have to fly home to deliver. Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, could delay the confirmation of the first woman ever nominated for the VA leadership post. Legislation introduced in Congress would help protect veterans while preserving their right to seek assistance navigating benefits from the private sector. By Michael Licari
11 months ago Visitors and patients will no longer be required to wear masks at all times at the health care sites. Veterans program funding would see an increase in fiscal 2024, unlike most other non-defense spending. VA Chief of Staff Tanya Bradsher is in line to be the first woman confirmed to the department's second-highest post. Negotiators will work through Memorial Day weekend in hopes of reaching a compromise on the issue before June 1. Load More