Mobile Courant

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) questioned Under Secretary for Benefits at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Joshua D. Jacobs and Under Secretary for Health at the VA Shereef M. Elnahal, M.D., regarding a $15 billion budget shortfall at the VA. The inquiry follows Senator Tuberville's letter and op-ed urging Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC) Chairman Jon Tester (D-MT) to hold a hearing to examine the budget lapse and any potential mismanagement.

Senator Tuberville, alongside Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK), has introduced the PRO Vets Act, which mandates quarterly in-person VA budget briefings to Congress about budgetary shortfalls.

During the hearing, Tuberville addressed financial transparency issues within the VA. "Thanks for being here today, both of you. Very important," he said, emphasizing the importance of ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent appropriately while providing care for veterans.

Jacobs clarified that most CSI payments were directed towards frontline workers such as environmental technicians and HR staff but acknowledged some inappropriate payments went to central office leadership.

Tuberville questioned Jacobs on whether these bonuses were merit-based or seniority-based. Jacobs responded that they are designated for high-demand positions with specific critical skills requirements.

On internal projections verification, Jacobs stated that projections are updated several times a year by different teams within the department. He mentioned no knowledge of external reviews being conducted on these projections but agreed to double-check.

Addressing future budget concerns, Tuberville asked Elnahal about a projected $22.6 billion shortfall in 2025. Elnahal corrected this figure to approximately $12 billion needed for medical care into fiscal year 2025.

Tuberville also raised concerns about community care referrals in his state increasing despite increased hiring under the PACT Act. Elnahal explained that both direct care and community care require funding growth due to rising patient appointments and costs associated with pharmaceuticals and prosthetics.

On mental healthcare prioritization, Elnahal highlighted strategic hiring efforts in mental health areas despite fiscal constraints, reporting a significant increase in new patient appointments in mental health this year compared to last year.

Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and serves on multiple committees including Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, and HELP Committees.