VA Orders Nationwide Rollout of Non-Citizen Employee Database
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is expanding its vetting protocols, mandating a comprehensive database to track non-U.S. citizens employed or affiliated with the agency. This policy requires all VA offices across America to compile lists identifying every individual – including part-timers, contractors, medical trainees, and volunteers – who are not U.S. citizen employees.
The directive, reportedly stemming from a memo dated November 15 signed by VA Chief of Staff Christopher Syrek, directs that this information must be prepared for Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins by December 30th. A VA spokesperson confirmed that the agency intends to share “adverse findings” with other federal entities regarding individuals potentially unauthorized to work in government positions.
This action places the VA under scrutiny, particularly given its workforce of more than 450,000 employees and thousands more contractors nationwide. The policy aims to meet broader federal vetting requirements but raises concerns about potential impacts on morale and recruitment efforts within a system already grappling with staffing shortages.
Some critics fear this measure could stoke unnecessary fear among personnel or deter foreign medical professionals from contributing to VA services.
