WASHINGTON – Representative Raúl M. Grijalva (AZ-07) has raised significant concerns regarding the recent dismissal of over 2,400 Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) employees, including veterans, military spouses, and other dedicated staff members, and the potential consequences for veterans in Southern Arizona. In a letter addressed to Director Jennifer S. Gutowski, Representative Grijalva called for immediate clarification on the effects of these terminations on the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System (SAVAHCS) and the broader veterans’ community. 

The dismissals come amid ongoing efforts by the VA to fill over 300,000 positions, prompting concerns over the continuity of care and the level of service provided to the region’s veterans. In the letter, Representative Grijalva requested detailed responses to several key issues that could directly impact the quality of care and support veterans in Southern Arizona rely on: 

• Call Volumes and Response Times: Representative Grijalva has asked for data on current call volumes and response times for veteran inquiries across various services, specifically in light of the terminations, to ensure timely responses and continued care. 
• Impact on Service Delivery: Grijalva requested a comprehensive plan from SAVAHCS on how the region’s veteran services—particularly healthcare, claims processing, and direct care roles—will be addressed in the wake of these mass terminations. 
• Veteran Support: There is a strong focus on the potential consequences of the dismissal of employees involved in medical research, claims processing, and direct care for veterans, with questions raised about the steps taken to mitigate disruptions and maintain high-quality care. 
• Exemptions and Personnel Changes: The letter seeks clarity on how mission-critical positions were defined within the VA and what measures are being taken to ensure continuity of care, particularly regarding remaining probationary employees in critical roles. 
• Plans Moving Forward: Grijalva called for a detailed response on the VA’s plans for ensuring a smooth transition, as well as its strategy to continue to meet the needs of veterans effectively. 

“These arbitrary dismissals raise serious concerns about the future of our veterans’ healthcare and support services. Slashing workers that serve our nations veterans in the name of government efficiency shows that this administration has a complete disregard not only for our veterans, but for the what the American public supports,” said Representative Grijalva. “They need to reverse these cuts, abide by congressional appropriations and ensure that every veteran in Southern Arizona continues to receive the care and attention they deserve.” 

The full letter to SAVAHCS can be found here. 

On February 15, 2025, Representative Grijalva signed a letter expressing deep concern over the VA terminations. 

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