Is this even possible? Lawmakers weigh cut in medical care for vets to pay for Denver boondoggle project

2015-06-11T08:49:10-04:00

Early this spring, VA officials asked for another $830 million to finish the hospital — but pared that to $625 million after lawmakers were aghast at the number. The 184-bed medical center in Aurora, Colo., now estimated to cost taxpayers $1.7 billion, three times its original budget, is the most expensive project in VA history.

Several lawmakers are concerned that "across the board cuts will not be palatable" to appropriators or House and Senate leaders, who are being briefed this week on VA's proposal, said a congressional aide familiar with members' thinking.

After a conference call with Deputy Secretary Sloan Gibson and several meetings in recent days, a bipartisan consensus has emerged in Colorado's House and Senate delegation, as well as among lawmakers on the committees that oversee veterans' issues, according to the aide and another one familiar with the discussions.
http://www.stripes.com/news/veterans/lawmakers-weigh-cut-in-medical-care-for-vets-to-pay-for-denver-boondoggle-project-1.351756

Response by PO1 John Miller made Jun 11 at 2015 8:51 AM

2015-06-11T08:51:42-04:00

So... reduce medical care for veterans in order to finish a veteran's hospital that will increase veteran medical care???

Response by PO3 Steven Sherrill made Jun 11 at 2015 9:10 AM

2015-06-11T09:10:35-04:00

OK that is it. Give those assholes a rifle, and let them go in harm's way!

I am not eligible for VA health benefits, and I am fine with it, but those who were guaranteed that benefit should not suffer because some windbag in a suit went full retard.

As much as I hate how letigious our society has become, I am afraid a class action law suit against the government on behalf of all veterans in the VA healthcare system may be required to get their heads out of their asses and do the right thing.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Jun 11 at 2015 10:25 AM

2015-06-11T10:25:03-04:00

Is it possible, of course. I am never surprised about how low our elected representative can go. I think most...all...need a reminder they are their to represent and not rule.

Response by CDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 11 at 2015 11:56 AM

2015-06-11T11:56:09-04:00

I think the larger question should be about the project itself. How can they have be 300% over budget? Really, a 184-bed hospital that cost $1.7 billion...that's more than $9 million per room.

Somebody's getting over on this deal.

Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made May 28 at 2017 6:14 PM

2017-05-28T18:14:14-04:00

Should not have to fall on Veterans just be cause of cost overuns. Disgraceful !