Congressman Salazar Calls for Investigation of Veterans Administration

Sends letter to Veterans’ Committee; wants  accountability, more oversight

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. John Salazar (CO-3) has called upon House Veterans Affairs’ Chairman Bob Filner to conduct an investigation of the Veterans Administration after an audit showed that officials wasted millions of dollars on a computer security contract.

“I believe Veterans Secretary Jim Nicholson should appear before the House committee and explain why this was allowed to happen. This is just one more example of how this Administration has failed our veterans and the American people.  I want answers and accountability; we need to ensure this never happens again,” Rep. Salazar said.

Salazar’s letter is below:

March 29, 2007

Hon. Bob Filner

Chair

House Committee on Veterans Affairs

335 Cannon House Office Building

Washington, DC  20515

Dear Mr. Chairman:

             According to reports, the Department of Veterans Affairs Inspector General has uncovered enormous amounts of waste on a $100 million computer security contract awarded in 2002.  The contract, awarded to a joint venture, VAST, was apparently mismanaged so badly that $35 million is reportedly unaccounted for.  Additionally, the contract exploded from $100 million to $250 million with virtually no oversight or procedures in place to ensure effective implementation.

            I am outraged by these revelations.  As you know, I was concerned about the massive data breach that occurred last year involving the records of thousands of veterans.  I offered legislation to provide financial assistance to any veteran harmed by identity theft.  Now, I am stunned to learn that all of this probably could have been avoided had the VA properly managed this data security contract in 2002.

            Mr. Chairman, I am angered by the gross waste and mismanagement of taxpayers’ funds by the agency that is charged with caring for our nation’s veterans.  We must demand accountability and provide the necessary oversight that has been lacking by this Administration and previous Congresses.  I strongly urge you to take action and begin an investigation of this apparent carelessness.

            Thank you for your hard work and guidance as Chairman.

                                                            Sincerely,

                                                             John T. Salazar

                                                            Member of Congress