Build, Utilize, Invest, Learn, and Deliver for Veterans Act of 2023 or the BUILD for Veterans Act of 2023 This bill addresses Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) capital asset management, planning, and investment. Among other requirements, the VA must ensure it has dedicated offices or entities and sufficient staff to conduct relevant critical responsibilities for the life cycle of capital asset management at the local, regional, and central office levels; establish a staffing model to ensure a minimum base level of capital asset staffing; develop goals and metrics to assess and improve the performance of VA capital asset management programs; comprehensively review the climate resilience of its facilities, land, and other relevant capital assets; submit the Strategic Plan to Improve VA's Delivery and Management of Capital Assets; and review all relevant authorities of the VA to determine whether the provisions are meaningful, relevant, and reflect current operational needs, organization structure, and all other necessary requirements for the full life cycle of effective and efficient management of capital assets. The Inspector General of the VA must examine and report on the management and performance of relevant capital asset projects of the VA. The Government Accountability Office must review and report on the VA's progress toward meeting the goals, metrics, and other plans set forth in this bill. The bill also requires various reports from the VA relating to capital asset improvement and the implementation of capital asset directives (e.g., reports on the VA's physical infrastructure and information technology needs).
The proposed changes seek to improve the utilization and management of the VA's infrastructure, which includes facilities, land, and equipment essential for delivering services to veterans. Notably, the bill requires the VA to conduct comprehensive assessments of its facilities’ climate resilience, taking into account potential vulnerabilities and necessary strategies to enhance climate-related adaptations. Additionally, the legislation emphasizes accountability through reports and strategic plans, requiring the VA to present comprehensive outlines of funding needs and infrastructure improvements, which would be reviewed periodically by Congress.
SB42, titled the 'Build, Utilize, Invest, Learn, and Deliver for Veterans Act of 2023,' is designed to enhance the management and performance of capital asset programs within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This legislation mandates the establishment of dedicated offices or entities within the VA, ensuring sufficient staffing levels necessary for effective capital asset management. The bill aims to create a strategic plan to improve various aspects of VA operations, including planning, budgeting, and performance metrics related to capital assets, ultimately aiming to better serve veterans and their families.
While the bill outlines vital improvements in the operational capacity of the VA, potential contention may arise regarding the funding mechanisms necessary for these enhancements. Lawmakers may debate the appropriate budget allocations and priorities, particularly in light of existing infrastructure challenges within the VA. Additionally, as new personnel and resources are mandated, discussions on the effectiveness and efficiency of current VA practices and their adaptability to these changes will likely be scrutinized. The balance between enhancing operational capabilities and managing costs will be a critical point of discussion as the bill progresses.