Senator Heinrich raised concerns about the negative impacts of budget cuts and staff reductions on veterans in New Mexico. The cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency targeted many provisional employees, including veterans, leading to slower service for Veterans Administration clients. The uncertainty surrounding these cuts could hurt organizations like the New Mexico Veterans Integration Centers, which has made progress in reducing homelessness among veterans. Senator Heinrich has been working to advocate for veterans and improve services, collaborating with Republican Senator John Boozman on legislation to expand veteran services. However, challenges remain, with concerns about the ability of the Veterans Administration to deliver quality health care if planned job cuts take place. Senator Heinrich has been seeking information from Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins on plans for serving veterans, but his attempts have been ignored. The long-term impact of cuts to veterans services on military recruiting was also highlighted during the listening session in Albuquerque. Despite ongoing challenges, the Veterans Affairs Department is working towards reform to better serve veterans, families, caregivers, and survivors.
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