In the News

Members of both political parties are calling for change after learning about bonuses awarded to local VA officials.

9Wants to Know obtained Veterans Affairs Department data showing that VA executives nationwide have received $23 million in bonuses since 2007.

"It seems to be in the Veterans Administration, if you are in leadership, as long as you have a pulse, you are going to get a bonus," said Rep. Mike Coffman (R-Colorado). "I think it's fundamentally wrong."

"It's absolutely outrageous," said Andrew Romanoff, a Democrat challenging Coffman for his 6th District seat. The 6th District includes a new VA medical center that is now under construction.

The head of the Denver VA, Lynette Roff, is near the top of the bonus list. She raked in nearly $110,000 over the past seven years.

The Denver VA responded to 9Wants to Know's inquires with a statement saying Roff has met many challenges, including opening three new community clinics. The statement also said her total pay is below what she would earn in the private sector.

At the same time, the VA is struggling to keep up with demand for veteran care.

"The VA is continuously saying we need more money; we need more money for more doctors; we need money for more nurses; we need money for computers. You've got money!" said Jason Quick with Concerned Veterans for America

Bonuses are based, in part, on how well hospitals reported that they met scheduling standards.

The VA's Rocky Mountian Regional Director Ralph Gigliotti received $71,00 in bonuses over four years.

He also faces disciplinary action after whistleblowers said appointment schedules in Fort Collins and Cheyenne were manipulated to make wait times appear shorter.

A senate bill aims to claw back ill-gotten bonuses.

"I would take back these bonuses," Romanoff said. "I would institute stricter accountability and oversight. Hold management responsible. Fire people who don't do their jobs."

"If you are in public service, there has to be some feeling that you are doing a good job, because you are serving your country," said Coffman, who questioned whether the VA should be giving out bonuses at all.