Congress has returned from recess. Several critical items remain on the “to do” list to include FY 2024 funding for all agencies and Veterans bills that could change how VA provides healthcare.

If you have been paying attention, NOVA, alongside our partners in VA healthcare submitted testimony for the record before the Senate with respect to several community care bills that have the potential to accelerate the outsourcing of veterans’ care to the private sector and drain the VA of needed funding for internal programs and services.
 
We will continue to advocate against provisions in the bills that are harmful.

NOVA firmly believes that VA provides the highest level of coordinated care in a setting that understands Veterans medical needs. These bills would leave veterans subject to the sort of fragmented care common in the private sector.

NOVA will also be urging passage of S. 10, VA Careers Act which will enhance VA’s efforts to bolster recruitment, retention, hiring and salaries for VHA staff. 

For our Action Alert on S. 1315, HEALTH Act and S. 2649, Making Community Care Work for Veterans Act: ACTION ALERT: Veterans’ Bills Will Harm Veterans and the Care They Receive at VA - Nurses Organization of Veterans Affairs

For talking points on S.10: VA Careers Act - s._10_talking_points_2023.pdf

There is some good news to report - the Administration has announced it will ask Congress for a 5.2% pay raise for FY 2024. Biden formally announces 5.2% average pay raise for feds in 2024 - Government Executive

In continuing our advocacy efforts, I hope that many of you have registered for NOVA's Annual Meeting and are planning your trip to Las Vegas. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet and interact with VA leadership and House and Senate VA committee staff.   Having your questions answered and being able to advocate for VA nursing is a critical part of the meeting. I urge all of you to register today.

Stay Tuned!