VA plans 15% workforce reduction, promises veteran care preservation

Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins announced a plan to reduce the VA workforce by 15%, aiming to cut 80,000 jobs. This follows the dismissal of at least 2,400 employees, which Collins claims will save over $83 million annually for veterans' healthcare. Collins emphasized that the cuts will not affect healthcare or benefits for veterans. He stated that the VA will continue hiring for critical positions while redirecting funds from non-essential contracts to improve services for veterans. Critics, including Democrats and veterans' groups, have expressed concern that these cuts will harm the quality of care and services. Protests against the proposed reductions are planned for March 14 in Washington, D.C., and other locations.