Veterans Affairs Slow Rolls FOIA

As if there FOIA denials weren't enough.

In my last post, I discussed the Freedom of Information (FOIA) requests denied by the US Department of Veterans Affairs. They haven’t limited their frustrating behavior to denials. They have slow-rolled a number of really important information requests as well.

Pending Appeals: Critical Issues Yet to Be Addressed

Despite the importance of the information requested, many of my appeals have been left in limbo, with the OGC failing to respond for months. Here are two examples.

LEAF Database Access Logs: In December 2023, I requested comprehensive system access logs from the Light Electronic Action Framework (LEAF), which the VA uses to record sensitive information such as employee vaccination status and religious exemption requests.

The LEAF system contains highly sensitive personal data. My concern is that my information—and potentially that of other VA employees—may have been accessed unlawfully. The failure to disclose these access logs raises serious concerns about the VA's commitment to safeguarding personal information.

OGC has yet to respond to my appeal.

Motivational Interviewing for COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance: I requested specific information related to the VHA training course titled "Motivational Interviewing for COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance."

This course is a key part of the VA’s strategy to encourage pseudo vaccine acceptance among veterans and VA employees. The withholding of course materials and communications surrounding this training program suggests that the VA might be concealing efforts to coerce veterans and employees into accepting the pseudo vaccine without fully respecting their right to informed consent.

I filed this appeal in September 2023, and it has been pending ever since, with no response from the OGC.

The Need for Public Scrutiny and Accountability

Each of these FOIA requests aimed to uncover critical information about the VA’s handling of COVID-19, its impact on veterans, and the protection of their rights. The consistent refusal to provide this information, coupled with the misuse of FOIA exemptions, suggests a deliberate effort to avoid public scrutiny.

While I have already filed a formal complaint with the VA Office of Inspector General, it is vital these issues are brought directly to the public. The health, safety, and rights of veterans and VA employees are at stake. It's essential that the VA is held accountable for its actions—because transparency and informed consent aren't just important; they're non-negotiable.