Us Congress House Bill HB3185

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/5/25
• Refer: 5/5/25
• Refer: 5/21/25

Caption

Personnel Integrity in Veterans Affairs Act of 2025

Impact

The bill proposes amendments to title 38 of the United States Code that would require the Secretary of the VA to continue personnel investigations even after an employee has resigned and to make a permanent notation in the employee's personnel file regarding these investigations. This change is expected to deter potential misconduct, as employees would be aware that their actions could have lasting implications on their professional records, even post-employment. The intent is to build a culture of integrity and trust among veterans and the employees who serve them.

Summary

House Bill 3185, titled the 'Personnel Integrity in Veterans Affairs Act of 2025', seeks to enhance accountability within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) regarding the management of employees who are under investigation for misconduct. The primary objective of this bill is to mandate that notations be made in the personnel records of employees who resign or separate from the VA while under investigation. This legislation aims to ensure that potential issues surrounding employee conduct are documented, thus increasing transparency and accountability within the VA and its operations.

Contention

A major point of contention surrounding HB 3185 lies in the balance between accountability and employee rights. Critics may argue that requiring notations in personnel records for allegations—even when an employee is not proven guilty—could hinder future employment opportunities and lead to stigmatization regarding former employees. Advocates for the bill counter that such measures are necessary for preserving the integrity of the VA and ensuring that any misconduct is appropriately acknowledged and addressed. The discourse highlights the challenge of ensuring that investigations are thorough and fair while also protecting the rights and reputations of employees who are ultimately cleared of wrongdoing.