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BVA is very proud to endorse the Independent
Budget (IB), which is annually prepared by four of the major VSOs--
AMVETS, Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Paralyzed Veterans of
America (PVA), and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). This is the
15th consecutive year BVA has endorsed the IB. BVA, along with
many other endorsers, participated in the preparatory sessions
and gave input into the formulation of this important document.
We trust these Committees will read this document carefully as
it contains many important and constructive suggestions regarding
VA health care delivery. The IB outlines a clear blueprint for
addressing VA medical care delivery, including reorganization
and funding. BVA believes these suggestions are very sound and
should receive serious consideration as the budget process moves
forward.
The $2.6 billion increase over the FY2001
appropriations recommended for health care is essential if VA
hopes to keep pace with the increased costs for salaries, benefits,
goods, and services utilized by VA. Additionally, the recommended
funding level will also enable VA to be more accurate in funding
the provisions of the Millennium Health care and Benefits Act
adopted last year. We also firmly believe this funding level is
necessary if the special disabilities programs are to be protected.
The recommended increase for Medical and Prosthetic Research is
also vital for VHA to fulfill its mission. The funds are critical
for VHA’s ability to attract and retain clinicians who are
also seeking the opportunity to conduct research.
Much has been said about the unconscionable claims
backlog within the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) and
the need to resolve this chronic problem. The IB, recognizing
this problem, has recommended an increase of some 840 FTEE to
reduce the shameful backlog. VBA has demonstrated that Information
Technology is not the sole solution underscoring the need for
more employees. VBA has suffered the loss of many of its most
experienced and knowledgeable adjudicators in recent years as
the result of retirement, buy-outs, and early-outs.
The IB also outlines concerns regarding our
National Cemetery System and the Construction budget. We urge
you to carefully review these recommendations as you prepare your
Views and Estimates to be forwarded to the Committee on the Budget
as they are vital to America’s veterans.
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