Duval Times

On May 21, 2024, Senator Rick Scott, alongside Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and other Republican colleagues, addressed a letter to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) demanding the repayment of nearly $11 million in unjustified bonuses distributed to senior executives within the VA. The letter also calls for the immediate dismissal of those responsible for these actions. The correspondence is cosigned by U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa).

The senators state, “The egregious mishandling of Critical Skill Incentives (CSIs) and the subsequent lack of accountability demand immediate and decisive action to restore integrity and trust within the VA. This report has brought to light the improper allocation of CSIs to senior executives within the VA. It has revealed a consistent disregard for statutory requirements and VA policies, resulting in the unjustified distribution of bonuses to executives. This blatant misuse of taxpayer funds is not just a breach of public trust but also a disservice to the courageous men and women who have selflessly served our nation. Furthermore, the OIG report outlines systemic failures in internal controls and transparency within the VA. It underscores the need for urgent reforms to strengthen governance processes and ensure accountability for decision-making regarding financial management practices.”

They continue, “Failure to take decisive action in response to these revelations will undermine public confidence in the VA and the trust of those who have sacrificed so much for our country. Congress passed the PACT Act to expand access to VA health care and benefits for millions of veterans exposed to toxic substances, not pad the pockets of career bureaucrats, particularly during a time when a majority of them were working remotely. Congress worked in good faith with the Department to provide for necessary resources to recruit and retain employees with high-demand skills or skills that are in short supply. The brazen entitlement by senior executives appointed by this Administration shows a clear lack of judgment and selfishness and these individuals must be held accountable.”

Click here to view the full letter.