Jon Tester, Montana U.S. Senator, visits Pabradė Training Area, Oct. 23, 2022 (Photo: Sgt. Lianne M. Hirano, U.S. Army National Guard)
Leaders of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Senators Jon Tester (D-Mont.) and Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), have introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at saving taxpayer dollars and increasing oversight of major acquisitions and contracts within the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The Acquisition Review Board and Cost Assessment Act of 2023 seeks to establish an oversight board responsible for reviewing significant VA acquisitions early in the decision-making process and ensuring contract compliance.
Both senators emphasize the importance of protecting taxpayers’ money and achieving a good return on investments for VA programs that serve Veterans. They highlight the challenges faced with previous major contracts and other initiatives, which have underscored the need for improved oversight before finalizing contracts.
The goal is to ensure that the procurement of goods and services at the VA is carried out responsibly, efficiently, and effectively, supporting Veterans while managing taxpayer funds.
The VA frequently awards substantial contracts to provide healthcare, distribute benefits, and operate cemeteries for millions of Veterans across the country. The proposed review board and cost assessment program would play an important role in adding oversight and accountability throughout the entire lifecycle of these major contracts starting from the planning stage.
Several VA programs, such as the Electronic Health Record Modernization program, the replacement of financial and accounting systems, and the modernization of human resources services, have faced significant challenges in the past, as documented by reports from numerous federal departments.
The bipartisan legislation aims to establish a review board for major VA acquisitions, improving oversight and accountability to safeguard taxpayer dollars and enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of services provided to Veterans.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.