S-493 : Still Just a Bill

Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability First Act of 2017

This bill authorizes the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to remove, demote by a reduction in grade and pay, or suspend a VA employee, including a member in a senior executive position, for reasons of performance or misconduct.

The bill prescribes VA removal and employee appeals procedures.

Whistle-blower protections are revised, including by prohibiting the VA from taking any such action against a person who has a pending whistle-blower complaint.

This bill provides for the reduction of federal annuities of VA employees and retirees convicted of a felony that influenced their performance while employed in such position.

The VA may recoup certain bonuses, awards, and reallocation expenses.

The VA may directly appoint qualifying individuals to the positions of Medical Center Director and Director of Veterans Integrated Service Network.

The bill revises time periods for adverse action reviews with respect to physicians, dentists, podiatrists, chiropractors, optometrists, registered nurses, physician assistants, and expanded-function dental auxiliaries.

Action Timeline

Action DateTypeTextSource
2017-03-02IntroReferralRead twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.Senate
2017-03-02IntroReferralIntroduced in SenateLibrary of Congress

Policy Area :

Armed Forces and National Security
See Subjects
  • Administrative remedies
  • Congressional oversight
  • Employment discrimination and employee rights
  • Federal officials
  • Government employee pay, benefits, personnel management
  • Government studies and investigations
  • Health facilities and institutions
  • Health personnel
  • Transportation costs
  • Veterans' medical care
  • Employee performance
  • Department of Veterans Affairs
  • Office of Personnel Management (OPM)

Related Bills

See Related Bills