Veterans Affairs’ independent watchdog office
is accusing department leaders of improperly withholding records
dealing with employee complaints, saying the action could be covering up
potential criminal misbehavior. Veterans Affairs leaders have responded by accusing the inspector general of overstepping its authority and improperly issuing reports that “recklessly cast the VA and its employees in an unfavorable light.” Lawmakers pulled into the fight this week call the conflict concerning. “The total lack of cooperation from the VA is alarming and a disservice to American veterans and taxpayers,” said Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., and ranking member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee.
“I’m demanding the VA immediately comply with the IG’s request for
access to information. The VA leadership that prides itself on
transparency is not above the law or exempt from independent oversight.” |