Key Takeaways

• The VA plans a non-US citizen database for its staff and affiliates.
• Lawmakers call the move intimidating and harmful to morale.
• The VA may share data with other agencies, including ICE.
• The report on non-US citizen database must arrive by year’s end 2025.

VA Plans Non-US Citizen Database for Staff

The Department of Veterans Affairs has ordered a new non-US citizen database. This list will track every non-citizen employed or linked to the VA. The leaked memo has sparked strong criticism from Congress and immigrant advocates. They warn the database might lead to fear, bias, and unfair treatment of workers.

Background of the Non-US Citizen Database

Recently, The Guardian revealed an internal memo for VA staff. It states the VA must build a non-US citizen database by December 30, 2025. The database will log names and details of all non-US citizens in the department. This includes paid and unpaid workers, researchers, and volunteers. In addition, VA leaders hinted they might share adverse findings with other federal agencies.

What the Memo Says

According to the leaked document, the VA’s office of operations, security, and preparedness must deliver a full report of non-US citizens by the end of next year. It reads, “By December 30, 2025, the office of operations, security, and preparedness must provide the secretary of veterans affairs a report of all non-United States citizens who are employed by or affiliated with VA.” Moreover, the VA spokesperson said the agency must vet all staff under federal trusted workforce rules. However, they did not rule out passing this data to ICE or other agencies.

Why Critics Oppose the Non-US Citizen Database

Many lawmakers see list-making as an old tactic to frighten people. For example, Democratic congresswoman Delia Ramirez called it an authoritarian move. She said the non-US citizen database will “decimate and demoralize” VA workers. In her view, it attacks immigrants who help veterans daily. Furthermore, Ramirez warned of “far-reaching” effects on the department’s culture and trust.

Possible Effects on VA Workers

First, the non-US citizen database may create distrust among colleagues. Second, non-citizen workers could feel targeted and unsafe. Third, families of staff might worry about privacy and legal exposure. As a result, the VA might struggle to hire diverse talent. Finally, morale could drop, hurting the services veterans rely on.

What the VA Says

In response, VA spokesperson Pete Kasperowicz stressed legal requirements. He said federal law demands ongoing vetting of all employees and affiliates. Thus, the database helps the VA maintain a trusted workforce. Kasperowicz also noted that any adverse information will go to “appropriate agencies” to handle unauthorized status. Nevertheless, he did not specify which agencies would receive data.

What Advocates Fear

Policy director Nayna Gupta from the American Immigration Council calls the non-US citizen database an intimidation tool. She claims it makes it easy for the government to share personal data with enforcement agencies. Moreover, she argued that listing non-citizens in government files can risk their safety. This includes fear of deportation, legal battles, and loss of work. In short, advocates say the database could harm both employees and veterans.

Next Steps for the Non-US Citizen Database

The VA is expected to roll out the database in phases. First, the office of operations must draft a system blueprint. Then, it will collect data from all VA departments. After that, the VA must compile and vet the data. Finally, the office will submit the full report to the VA secretary by December 30, 2025. Meanwhile, Congress may hold hearings or push legislation to block the database.

FAQs

How will the non-US citizen database affect current VA employees?

Workers may feel watched and unsafe. Non-citizens could fear data sharing with enforcement agencies. This might lower morale and trust at the VA.

Can the VA share database info with ICE?

Yes. A VA spokesperson said they will share any “adverse findings” with appropriate agencies, including ICE.

Why are lawmakers upset about the database?

They believe list-making stokes fear and targets immigrant workers. They worry it will harm VA morale and services for veterans.

What happens after the VA report is due?

The VA secretary will review the findings. Congress may then propose limits or oversight to stop data misuse.