Carter Remarks at Budget Hearing on Department of Veterans Affairs (As Prepared For Delivery)

Mr. Secretary, good morning. Welcome, and thank you for joining us. It is great to see you. I recognize it is somewhat unusual to appear before this Committee to discuss the budget request after the House has already passed a bill with tremendous bipartisan support. I hope today’s conversation includes discussion of that legislation. I am sure the department would always welcome additional funding, but I would simply say that the process will continue to evolve over the coming months, and we welcome the department’s input and perspective as we move forward.

We also appreciate the opportunity to discuss the many issues currently facing the Department. I am certain today’s discussion will include staffing levels and ongoing reorganizations. I appreciate your efforts to reform the department. I think everyone here recognizes that there is always room for improvement and that maintaining the status quo is not enough.

While I support efforts to reform and modernize the department, I also want to ensure those efforts are approached responsibly and, most importantly, never jeopardize the care and services our veterans rely upon.

I know we all will not agree on every issue discussed today, but I sincerely believe these reform efforts are being undertaken with veterans at the forefront and are intended to improve the delivery of care and services. To close, I want you to know we appreciate the improved communication and transparency from the department, and we value the ongoing dialogue.