Lisa Swirsky, Legislative Representative for the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the Veterans Administration (VA) budget shortfall and its impact on workers.
According to Swirsky, workers are facing a monumental task due to underfunding. She discussed the staffing issues that have worsened over time and how it shortfall continues created a gap in care for veterans. Swirsky said the shortfall is projected to reach $15 billion in 2025.
One of the primary causes of the shortfall is the privatization of veteran care. Swirsky discussed the impact that privatization has had as more veterans seek private care, and costs continue to rise. Swirsky discussed what could be done to return veterans to the direct care system, help lower costs and improve budgeting problems.
Finally, Swirsky discussed the continuous push by some members of Congress to pass legislation that could worsen the problem. Despite the negative impact of privatization and it’s impact on the budget, cuts to direct care continue to be proposed. Swirsky talked about the need for legislation to improve recruitment and compensation for workers and other proposals that could help.
Listen to the show above to learn more about the impact of the VA budget shortfall.