Senator Criticizes Delay in Implementing Benefits Law by VA, Congresswoman Advocates for Oversight of Thrift Investment Board by Congress
Senator Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., has expressed concern over the slow implementation of the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act (S. 141) by the Veteran Affairs Department. The bill, which aims to improve veterans' healthcare and benefits, was passed by Congress over a month ago, but Blumenthal believes that several provisions remain unimplemented.
One of the provisions Blumenthal pointed to is an increase in the expenditure cap for noninstitutional care alternatives to nursing home care. He also highlighted the need for increased reimbursement rates for organizations providing housing and case management services to homeless veterans, and the reauthorization of direct care and services authorities started during the pandemic to support homeless veterans.
Meanwhile, the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board (FRTIB) is facing scrutiny over the implementation of the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board Inspector General Act (H.R. 3364). The bill, re-introduced by Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton on May 13, 2023, aims to establish an inspector general for the FRTIB. This is Norton's third attempt at the legislation, first introduced in 2022.
The FRTIB, which oversees the Thrift Savings Plan, a 401(k)-style federal employee retirement plan, faced service challenges following the rollout of a new recordkeeping system in 2022. Norton stated that she frequently heard from constituents about problems with the TSP system after the change, including discrepancies in account balances, difficulties accessing accounts, lost beneficiary information, and hours-long wait times for customer service.
In response, the VA announced on Monday that it would immediately implement a provision of the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act (S. 141) that removes a requirement for a second VA doctor to review and approve requests for non-VA provider care. VA Secretary Doug Collins stated that the implementation of this provision would make it easier for veterans to get their health care when and where it's most convenient for them.
VA officials were unavailable for comment on Senator Blumenthal's remarks at press time. The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, with Rep. Gerald E. Connolly as the sponsor of the bill providing for the creation of an inspector general for the Thrift Savings Plan.
As both pieces of legislation move forward, Congress and the VA will continue to address the needs of veterans and federal employees, ensuring that they receive the care and benefits they deserve.
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