Optimizing the VA Workforce for Veterans Act of 2026
Sponsored By: Senator Moran, Jerry [R-KS]
In Committee
Summary
Would require a five-year strategic human capital plan for the Department of Veterans Affairs. The bill would set recruiting and retention goals, tie staffing to projected demand for VA benefits and services, require advance notice and protections before layoffs, and add detailed reorganization reporting plus Comptroller General reviews.
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Stronger job protections for VA employees
If enacted, VA would have to give Congress and affected employees at least 60 days' notice before starting any reduction in force. The notice would have to list how many employees are affected, which offices and locations, and staff totals before and after. The notice would have to explain how new staffing aligns with projected demand and the VA workforce plan, and include budget effects and how services will improve. The same notice would have to go to employees and Congress. If the VA did not give the required notice, the Merit Systems Protection Board could pause or set aside the RIF for that employee until VA complied. The bill would define reduction in force by reference to part 351 of title 5 as of January 1, 2026.
Five-year VA workforce plan
If enacted, the Secretary would have to submit a five-year VA strategic human capital plan by September 30, 2027, and update it each September 30 so it always covers the next five fiscal years. The plan would show staffing needs by VA component and facility and include a workforce gap analysis, hiring and retention goals, productivity measures, and targets and a strategy to reduce time-to-hire. The plan would include strategies to recruit veterans, spouses, caregivers, and family members as VA employees. The Comptroller General would review the plan within 180 days of submission and at least once every two years afterward.
Tighter rules for VA reorganizations
If enacted, VA reorganization proposals would have to explain how changes will improve care and benefits for veterans, spouses, dependents, and caregivers. Proposals would have to include results-based performance metrics and a risk mitigation plan listing each identified risk and how it will be mitigated. After a reorganization, the Secretary would have to send a report to the House and Senate Committees on Veterans' Affairs within 180 days and then every 180 days for two years, using the stated metrics to assess success.
Sponsors & CoSponsors
Sponsor
Moran, Jerry [R-KS]
KS • R
Cosponsors
Sen. King, Angus S., Jr. [I-ME]
ME • I
Sponsored 4/27/2026
Roll Call Votes
No roll call votes available for this bill.
View on Congress.gov