Paralyzed Veterans of America Reacts to VA Staffing Plans
On July 7, 2025, the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) made a significant announcement regarding the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) recent decision not to carry on with a major reduction-in-force strategy. This decision comes as the VA aims to streamline its workforce while maintaining high-quality healthcare and support services for veterans.
Carl Blake, the CEO of PVA, issued a statement highlighting the implications of the VA’s decision to reduce its staffing by approximately 30,000 employees by the end of the current fiscal year. Blake emphasized that the primary concern of PVA is not merely the organizational numbers but rather the resulting impact on the lives of veterans, especially those suffering from spinal cord injuries and diseases like ALS and MS. The organization is deeply committed to ensuring timely and effective health care and benefits for veterans, underscoring the importance of such resources to their quality of life and independence.
In his statement, Blake praised the VA’s efforts to enhance healthcare delivery while raising questions about how the expected reductions may affect care availability. He affirmed that PVA is eager to work alongside VA Secretary Collins and his team to guarantee that veterans receive the most beneficial outcomes. Highlighting the need for strategic resource reallocations within the VA, Blake pointed out that efficiency does not necessarily require a decrease in critical support functions. Instead, he stressed the need for a re-examination of resource allocations that would lead to better service delivery without undermining essential functions.
About Paralyzed Veterans of America
The Paralyzed Veterans of America operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit entity and holds the distinction of being the only congressionally chartered veterans service organization focused solely on the needs of veterans with spinal cord injuries or diseases. Their mission encompasses various critical areas:
- - Advocacy: PVA actively ensures that veterans receive the benefits they’ve earned through their service and that they are well-cared for in VA spinal cord injury units.
- - Research and Education: The organization invests in research aimed at finding cures and enhancing the care for individuals affected by paralysis.
- - Support Services: They provide training, career services, and advocate for accessibility in public spaces, enhancing quality of life for veterans and people with disabilities.
With over 70 offices and 33 chapters across the country, PVA is steadfast in its support for veterans, families, and caregivers, serving every state, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Their commitment is to ensure that all veterans have access to necessary services and resources, thus maintaining a high standard of care and quality of life.
For more information about the Paralyzed Veterans of America and their initiatives, visit
PVA.org.