17-member panel would study VA health care and report yearly to lawmakers

What does this do?

The bill would create a 17-member commission to study how the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), the part of the Department of Veterans Affairs that runs VA hospitals and clinics, is doing its job. The commission would send Congress a report with findings and recommendations each year by March 15. It could only study and advise, and could not change VA policy or spending on its own.

Who does it affect?

The bill most directly affects the roughly nine million veterans who use VA health care, as well as VA employees and members of Congress who oversee the system. The Comptroller General, who leads the Government Accountability Office, would pick the commission members.

Why does it matter?

Congress would receive regular outside reviews of VA operations, including wait times, quality of care, and the Community Care Program. Congress would decide whether to act on any recommendation.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Starts only after funding is provided
• First members named within 280 days
• Recommendations must be costed