Congresswoman Aumua Amata took part in a House Veterans’ Affairs Committee (HVAC) hearing that focused on whistleblowers at the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA).
In recent years, VA whistleblowers have brought to light instances in which veterans faced several obstacles to receive care from VA hospitals.
Some of these whistleblowers are VA employees who have faced retaliatory actions from the VA and their supervisors.
As a result, Congress has taken actions to protect whistleblowers from such actions.
Several VA whistleblowers and whistleblower organizations testified before the committee.
Congresswoman Aumua Amata asked the witnesses what other actions Congress could take to further protect whistleblowers.
“These whistleblowers provide an extra layer of protection for our veterans, and we have an obligation to protect them in turn from undue retaliation,” said Aumua.
“No one should feel afraid to speak up about shortcomings in the VA or any federal agency. Truth and transparency in government should be encouraged not punished.”
