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Income and expense are whole-filing amounts associated with this lobbyist, not personal compensation or an allocated share.
No topic inference: each bill number appears in source LDA issue text assigned to this lobbyist.
VA Clinician Appreciation, Recruitment, Education, Expansion, and Retention Support (CAREERS) Act of 2023
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes. Lobbied to have Congress require the VA to return HR functions back to VA facilities and appropriate funding for it. Lobbied against continued increased spending on community care at the expense of VA's own staffing and infrastructure. Specific legislation: Lobbied for changes to S. 10, the "VA Clinician Appreciation, Recruitment, Education, Expansion and Retention Support (CAREERS) Act of 2023" related to market pay, performance pay, cost of living adjustments, licensure and certification reimbursement, covid leave flexibility, recruitment and retention at VA community living centers, continuing professional education and Title 38 bargaining rights.
Specific issues are shown only where the LDA source assigned them to this lobbyist. Targets apply to the associated filing.
AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL via MS. MARILYN PARK
2023 · first_quarter · 1T
Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes. Lobbied to have Congress require the VA to return HR functions back to VA facilities and appropriate funding for it. Lobbied against continued increased spending on community care at the expense of VA's own staffing and infrastructure. Specific legislation: Lobbied for changes to S. 10, the "VA Clinician Appreciation, Recruitment, Education, Expansion and Retention Support (CAREERS) Act of 2023" related to market pay, performance pay, cost of living adjustments, licensure and certification reimbursement, covid leave flexibility, recruitment and retention at VA community living centers, continuing professional education and Title 38 bargaining rights.
Filing targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE, Veterans Affairs, Dept of (VA)
Source: Senate LDA
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 14003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied on VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans' Affairs Committee Hearing titled "Building A Better VA: Addressing Healthcare Workforce Recruitment And Retention Challenges," Testimony of Ms. MJ Burke, AFGE NVAC 1st Executive Vice President (March 17, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (March 2, 2022). Letter to the House Rules Committee for a hearing on H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (February 28, 2022). Letter to House Veterans' Affairs Committee for a Markup (February 2, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." (January 12, 2022). Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," Provided Comments on the A.N.S. to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied for changes to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act."
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act of 2021
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 14003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied on VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans' Affairs Committee Hearing titled "Building A Better VA: Addressing Healthcare Workforce Recruitment And Retention Challenges," Testimony of Ms. MJ Burke, AFGE NVAC 1st Executive Vice President (March 17, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (March 2, 2022). Letter to the House Rules Committee for a hearing on H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (February 28, 2022). Letter to House Veterans' Affairs Committee for a Markup (February 2, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." (January 12, 2022). Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," Provided Comments on the A.N.S. to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied for changes to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act."
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
Equal Employment for All Act of 2021
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 14003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied on VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans' Affairs Committee Hearing titled "Building A Better VA: Addressing Healthcare Workforce Recruitment And Retention Challenges," Testimony of Ms. MJ Burke, AFGE NVAC 1st Executive Vice President (March 17, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (March 2, 2022). Letter to the House Rules Committee for a hearing on H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (February 28, 2022). Letter to House Veterans' Affairs Committee for a Markup (February 2, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." (January 12, 2022). Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," Provided Comments on the A.N.S. to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied for changes to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act."
Equal Employment for All Act of 2021
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2022
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
FY 2022 Military Quality of Life Veterans Affairs Appropriations (H.R. 4355)-Lobbied in support for funding to hire new employees to fill vacancies; provisions to provide adequate funding for VA health and benefits programs and against further contracting out. Lobbied for the inclusion of language to prevent unilateral implementation of collective bargaining agreements.
Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 14003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied on VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans' Affairs Committee Hearing titled "Building A Better VA: Addressing Healthcare Workforce Recruitment And Retention Challenges," Testimony of Ms. MJ Burke, AFGE NVAC 1st Executive Vice President (March 17, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (March 2, 2022). Letter to the House Rules Committee for a hearing on H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (February 28, 2022). Letter to House Veterans' Affairs Committee for a Markup (February 2, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." (January 12, 2022). Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," Provided Comments on the A.N.S. to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied for changes to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act."
Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 14003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied on VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans' Affairs Committee Hearing titled "Building A Better VA: Addressing Healthcare Workforce Recruitment And Retention Challenges," Testimony of Ms. MJ Burke, AFGE NVAC 1st Executive Vice President (March 17, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (March 2, 2022). Letter to the House Rules Committee for a hearing on H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (February 28, 2022). Letter to House Veterans' Affairs Committee for a Markup (February 2, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." (January 12, 2022). Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," Provided Comments on the A.N.S. to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied for changes to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act."
Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 14003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied on VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans' Affairs Committee Hearing titled "Building A Better VA: Addressing Healthcare Workforce Recruitment And Retention Challenges," Testimony of Ms. MJ Burke, AFGE NVAC 1st Executive Vice President (March 17, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (March 2, 2022). Letter to the House Rules Committee for a hearing on H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (February 28, 2022). Letter to House Veterans' Affairs Committee for a Markup (February 2, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." (January 12, 2022). Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," Provided Comments on the A.N.S. to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied for changes to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act."
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 14003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied on VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans' Affairs Committee Hearing titled "Building A Better VA: Addressing Healthcare Workforce Recruitment And Retention Challenges," Testimony of Ms. MJ Burke, AFGE NVAC 1st Executive Vice President (March 17, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (March 2, 2022). Letter to the House Rules Committee for a hearing on H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (February 28, 2022). Letter to House Veterans' Affairs Committee for a Markup (February 2, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." (January 12, 2022). Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," Provided Comments on the A.N.S. to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied for changes to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act."
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes.
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
To amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes.
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 14003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied on VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans' Affairs Committee Hearing titled "Building A Better VA: Addressing Healthcare Workforce Recruitment And Retention Challenges," Testimony of Ms. MJ Burke, AFGE NVAC 1st Executive Vice President (March 17, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (March 2, 2022). Letter to the House Rules Committee for a hearing on H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (February 28, 2022). Letter to House Veterans' Affairs Committee for a Markup (February 2, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." (January 12, 2022). Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," Provided Comments on the A.N.S. to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied for changes to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act."
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Services for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Services for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Long-Term Care Veterans Choice Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2023
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2023
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill 2023(HR 8238) and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission.
Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2023
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2023
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
H.R. 8238 Military Quality of Life/Veterans Affairs Appropriations (HR 8238) - Lobbied in support of funding to hire new employees to fill vacancies, adequate funding for VA health and benefits programs and against further contracting out, inclusion of langauge to prevent unilateral implementation of collective bargaining agreements, funding for VA health care and benefit staff and police officers, restrictions on funding for the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission
Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
Food Security for All Veterans Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Food Security for All Veterans Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 14003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied on VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans' Affairs Committee Hearing titled "Building A Better VA: Addressing Healthcare Workforce Recruitment And Retention Challenges," Testimony of Ms. MJ Burke, AFGE NVAC 1st Executive Vice President (March 17, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (March 2, 2022). Letter to the House Rules Committee for a hearing on H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (February 28, 2022). Letter to House Veterans' Affairs Committee for a Markup (February 2, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." (January 12, 2022). Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," Provided Comments on the A.N.S. to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied for changes to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act."
Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 14003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied on VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans' Affairs Committee Hearing titled "Building A Better VA: Addressing Healthcare Workforce Recruitment And Retention Challenges," Testimony of Ms. MJ Burke, AFGE NVAC 1st Executive Vice President (March 17, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (March 2, 2022). Letter to the House Rules Committee for a hearing on H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (February 28, 2022). Letter to House Veterans' Affairs Committee for a Markup (February 2, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." (January 12, 2022). Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," Provided Comments on the A.N.S. to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied for changes to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act."
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
Veterans Dental Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 14003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied on VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans' Affairs Committee Hearing titled "Building A Better VA: Addressing Healthcare Workforce Recruitment And Retention Challenges," Testimony of Ms. MJ Burke, AFGE NVAC 1st Executive Vice President (March 17, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (March 2, 2022). Letter to the House Rules Committee for a hearing on H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (February 28, 2022). Letter to House Veterans' Affairs Committee for a Markup (February 2, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." (January 12, 2022). Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," Provided Comments on the A.N.S. to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied for changes to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act."
Veterans Dental Care Eligibility Expansion and Enhancement Act
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes.
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 14003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied on VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans' Affairs Committee Hearing titled "Building A Better VA: Addressing Healthcare Workforce Recruitment And Retention Challenges," Testimony of Ms. MJ Burke, AFGE NVAC 1st Executive Vice President (March 17, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (March 2, 2022). Letter to the House Rules Committee for a hearing on H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (February 28, 2022). Letter to House Veterans' Affairs Committee for a Markup (February 2, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." (January 12, 2022). Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," Provided Comments on the A.N.S. to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied for changes to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act."
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs an Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes.
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Veterans Marriage Recognition Act of 2022
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Veterans Marriage Recognition Act of 2022
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
Department of Veterans Affairs Employee Fairness Act of 2021
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Department of Veterans Affairs Employee Fairness Act of 2021
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 14003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied on VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans' Affairs Committee Hearing titled "Building A Better VA: Addressing Healthcare Workforce Recruitment And Retention Challenges," Testimony of Ms. MJ Burke, AFGE NVAC 1st Executive Vice President (March 17, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (March 2, 2022). Letter to the House Rules Committee for a hearing on H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (February 28, 2022). Letter to House Veterans' Affairs Committee for a Markup (February 2, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." (January 12, 2022). Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," Provided Comments on the A.N.S. to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied for changes to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act."
Department of Veterans Affairs Employee Fairness Act of 2021
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
Department of Veterans Affairs Employee Fairness Act of 2021
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
To provide for a waiver of the matching funds requirement for the farmers market and local food promotion program and value added producer grant program.
Client: AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL · Firm: MS. MARILYN PARK
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL via MS. MARILYN PARK
2022 · fourth_quarter · Q4
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make C&P Exams available in every VA Medical Center. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe,M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the Protecting VA Employees Act; to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of changes made to H.R. 1948, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion. Lobbied for oversight of the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act as it pertains to VA Police Officers. Lobbied in support of and for changes to S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the VA Nurse and PA RAISE Act. Lobbied for the increased use of market pay and locality pay surveys for Title employees and for Congress to perform oversight over the GA to ensure that these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. Lobbied to prevent the implementation of recommendations of the VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling Our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7, 2022. Provided questions to committee members for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation on December 7,2022. Provided questions to members of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for hearing on "Fulfilling our Pact: Ensuring Effective Implementation of Toxic Exposure Legislation" on December 7, 2022. Provided a Statement for the Record for the House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, "Review of the Role of VA's Fourth Mission and Pandemic Response" on December 13, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act; Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act and its amended version. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022; Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, Protecting VA Employees Act to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, Ensuring Veterans Smooth Transition (EVEST) Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now (WINGMAN) Act; Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022, as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans' Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act. Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied for oversight of the Honoring the PACT Act. Lobbied in support of report language related to Department of Veterans affairs in H.R. 2617 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Including: Support for the Cleland Dole Act and preferred changes to certain provisions; Support for report language exploring expanded dental coverage for eligible veterans; Support for the filling of vacancies throughout the department; Support for funding for the implementation of the PACT Act and the Toxic Exposure Fund.
Filing targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE, Veterans Affairs, Dept of (VA)
AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL via MS. MARILYN PARK
2022 · third_quarter · Q3
Lobbied for changes to Veterans Benefits Administration's (VBA) employee performance standards. Lobbied for increased oversight and changes to performance standards for Legal Administrative Assistants in the VBA National Call Centers. Lobbied for comprehensive changes to internal VBA processes for claims, including changes to the VBA National Work Queue. Lobbied to require the VA to include VA employee input when making changes to the claims process, employee performance standards, and training for claims processors. Lobbied on the processing of complex claims within the Veterans Benefits Administration, including how it relates to Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury Lobbied for the specialization of claims processing for highly complex cases. Lobbied for reimbursement for bar membership dues for attorneys working at the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Lobbied for changes to the Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act that improperly authorizes an agency IG to issue testimonial subpoenas to former employees and others without the safeguards provided to current employees. Lobbied for changes to prior to the introduction of H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs Act to remove provisions that would improperly expand the Office of Special Counsel's authority at the expense of the neutral Merit Systems Protection Board and afford overly broad protections to SES members. C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act." Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of market pay surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act: Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the "Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022", a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the "National Defense Authorization Act", substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023" and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: Letter to the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a Legislative Hearing on July 13, 2022 Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on July 19, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on July 27, 2022. Letter to the House Veterans Affairs Committee for a Markup on September 21, 2022. Provided questions to members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee for a hearing on September 21, 2022. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888, the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its amended version. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Also lobbied for specific changes to the bill related to VA Police Pensions, Continuing Professional Education Benefits, Performance Pay, Collective Bargaining Rights for Title 38 Employees, and changes for protections for former federal employees in relation to IG investigations. H.R. 304/S. 4221, the "Equal COLA Act" to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act Lobbied in support of S. 3372, To amend title 38, United States Code, to strengthen benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 3548, the Veterans Hearing Benefits Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of S. 4141, A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs as Advisory Committee on United States Outlying Areas and Freely Associated States, and for other purposes. Lobbied in support of S. 4308, the Veterans Marriage Recognition Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8888, the Food Security for All Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2800, the Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Access Now Act or the WINGMAN Act Lobbied for changes to and supported H.R. 8510, the Strengthening Whistleblower Protections at the Department of Veterans Affairs as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6823, the Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Service for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2022 as amended. Lobbied in support of H.R. 8260, the Faster Payments to Veterans Survivors Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of H.R. 5776, the Serving Our LGBTQ Veterans Act Lobbied for in support of and for technical changes to H.R. 8003, the Restore Veterans Dignity Act of 2022. Lobbied in support of the amended version of H.R. 8313, the House Every Veterans Act. Lobbied in opposition to the amended version of H.R. 291 the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act Made comments on H.R. 6647, a bill to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 7188, the Modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3373, the "Honoring the PACT Act," Lobbied against SA 5185 (Blackburn) to S. 3373 Lobbied against SA 5186 (Toomey) to S. 373
Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill 2023(HR 8238) and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission.
Filing targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE, Veterans Affairs, Dept of (VA)
AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL via MS. MARILYN PARK
2022 · second_quarter · Q2
C&P Exams: Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Collective Bargaining Rights: Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771, the VA Employee Fairness Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 4003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization:Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. VA Compensation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the VA CPE Modernization Act. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied for the increase use of Market Pay Surveys for Title 38 employees, and for Congress to perform oversight over the VA to ensure these surveys are being completed regularly and accurately. VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act Lobbied to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Lobbied in support introduction of legislation, existing legislation, and amendments to repeal the AIR Commission. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans Affairs Committee Markup on Pending Legislation (April 6, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on The VA Workforce: Assessing Ways To Bolster Recruitment And Retention (May 3, 2022). Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Legislation (Hearing postponed, statement submitted for the record) (May 24, 2022). Letter to all Senators with vote recommendations on the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," and potential floor amendments. House Veterans Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health Hearing on Pending Legislation (June 22, 2022). Letter to Appropriations Committees of the House and Senate in support of amendment to VA appropriations to prohibit the closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 304/S. 4221 Equal COLA Act to protect VA employees in FERS. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021. Lobbied to repeal the AIR Act and in support of S. 4297, the Elimination of the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission Act of 2022, a draft House companion bill, and a proposed amendment to H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act, substantially similar to S. 4297. Lobbied to amend H.R. 8238, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, 2023 and parallel draft Senate legislation to prohibit closure of VA health care facilities based on certain VA recommendations to the AIR Commission. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5051 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5063 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5064 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5071 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in opposition to SA 5075 to H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our PACT Act. Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 5738, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 7335, the Improving Military Sexual Trauma Claims Coordination Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 2428, the VA OIG Testimonial Subpoena Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. H.R. 7158, the Long Term Care Veterans Choice Act Lobbied for changes to H.R. 7153, the "Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Benefits Automation Act." Lobbied in support of S. 4156, the VA Workforce Improvement, Support, and Expansion (WISE) Act of 2022. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 291, the COST SAVINGS Enhancement Act. Lobbied in opposition to H.R. 1216, the Modernizing Veterans Health Care Eligibility Act. Lobbied for oversight of H.R. 6273, the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 1957, the Veterans Infertility Treatment Act of 2021. Lobbied in support of H.R. 345, the Reproductive Health Information for Veterans Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6422, the VA STRONG Act.
H.R. 8238 Military Quality of Life/Veterans Affairs Appropriations (HR 8238) - Lobbied in support of funding to hire new employees to fill vacancies, adequate funding for VA health and benefits programs and against further contracting out, inclusion of langauge to prevent unilateral implementation of collective bargaining agreements, funding for VA health care and benefit staff and police officers, restrictions on funding for the VA Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission
Filing targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE, Veterans Affairs, Dept of (VA)
AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL via MS. MARILYN PARK
2022 · first_quarter · Q1
Lobbied against contracting out of Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams and bringing those exams back into the VA. Lobbied to keep all specialty C&P Exams including but not limited to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), veterans who served as Prisoners of War (POWs), veterans who suffered catastrophic injuries, and veterans who are currently eligible (or will likely soon be eligible) to pursue toxic exposure claims. Lobbied for the VA to utilize more internal C&P Providers by hiring more staff and returning staff to C&P positions who had previously been reassigned. Lobbied to keep Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) Exams within the VA. Lobbied for the continued oversight of contract C&P Exams. Lobbied to make sure the VA is in compliance with Section 2002 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. Lobbied for the introduction of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to repeal parts of the VA Accountability Act. Lobbied in support of the implementation of the withdrawal of President Trump's May 2018 Executive Orders 13836, 13837, and 13839. Lobbied in support of the implementation of President Biden's January 2021 Executive Order 14003: "Protecting the Federal Workforce in a timely fashion." Lobbied for oversight into the Biden Administration's implementation of Executive Order 14003. VA Infrastructure: VA HR Modernization: Lobbied to address problems created by VA reorganization of its human resources processes including centralization and implementation of new information technology systems, and practices and policies related to filling and posting unfilled positions. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied for the need for increased compensation for mid-grade Title 38 employees in positions covered by the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied on VA Asset Infrastructure Review (AIR) Act to block the confirmation of the AIR Commission members and prevent implementation of recommendations to close facilities and reduce patient capacity. Lobbied for the VA to hire staff to fill its tens of thousands of vacancies. Lobbied for the inclusion of Questions for the Record to the VA Secretary on AIR Commission market assessment data transparency. Testimony, Statements for the Record, and Letters: House Veterans' Affairs Committee Hearing titled "Building A Better VA: Addressing Healthcare Workforce Recruitment And Retention Challenges," Testimony of Ms. MJ Burke, AFGE NVAC 1st Executive Vice President (March 17, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (March 2, 2022). Letter to the House Rules Committee for a hearing on H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," (PACT Act)" (February 28, 2022). Letter to House Veterans' Affairs Committee for a Markup (February 2, 2022). Letter to every representative in support of final passage of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." (January 12, 2022). Specific Legislation: Lobbied in support of H.R. 1948/S. 771 the "VA Employee Fairness Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 962/S. 1888 the "Law Enforcement Officer Equity Act" and the importance of this bill to the VA Police Force. Lobbied in support of H.R. 3693, the "VA CPE Modernization Act," and its importance to VA Clinicians. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6398/S. 3518, the "FAIR Act" to raise pay for federal employees at the VA. Lobbied in support of H.R. 6682, the "Protecting VA Employees Act" to amend parts of the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act. Lobbied in support of H.R. 4673, the "Ensuring Veterans' Smooth Transition Act" or "EVEST Act." Lobbied in support of H.R. 6411, the "Support The Resiliency of Our Nation's Great Veterans Act of 2022" or the "STRONG Veterans Act of 2022" Lobbied in support of H.R. 3697, the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) Act of 2021," Provided Comments on the A.N.S. to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act." Lobbied in support of S. 3017, the "Veterans Dental Enhancement and Expansion Act." Lobbied for changes to H.R. 5575, the "VA Nurse and Physician Assistant RAISE Act."
FY 2022 Military Quality of Life Veterans Affairs Appropriations (H.R. 4355)-Lobbied in support for funding to hire new employees to fill vacancies; provisions to provide adequate funding for VA health and benefits programs and against further contracting out. Lobbied for the inclusion of language to prevent unilateral implementation of collective bargaining agreements.
Filing targets: HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SENATE, Veterans Affairs, Dept of (VA)
AFGE NATIONAL VA COUNCIL via MS. MARILYN PARK
2022 · first_quarter · RR
Working conditions of non-management employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs including compensation, workplace safety, hiring and promotion and collective bargaining rights. Lobby also against privatization of work performed by VA employees and against contracting out of VA health care services.
Working conditions of non-management employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs including compensation, workplace safety, hiring and promotion and collective bargaining rights. Lobby also against privatization of work performed by VA employees and against contracting out of VA health care services.
Working conditions of non-management employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs including compensation, workplace safety, hiring and promotion and collective bargaining rights. Lobby also against privatization of work performed by VA employees and against contracting out of VA health care services.