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A bipartisan group of lawmakers is working to prevent the closure of the Schenectady VA Clinic in Rotterdam. Led by Congressman Paul Tonko and State Senator Patricia Fahy, the coalition is urging the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to reverse its decision to shut down the facility by August. They argue that closing the clinic would force over 1,500 veterans to travel farther for healthcare, potentially disrupting vital services.
The clinic serves more than 7,000 eligible veterans in Schenectady County. Many veterans, especially those with disabilities or limited transportation options, rely on the clinic's proximity. The closure would redirect patients to VA facilities in Clifton Park, Albany, Fonda, or Oneonta, which could be challenging for those in rural areas. According to the coalition, longer travel times could lead to increased personal costs and spending.
The closure is part of broader federal actions, including funding cuts and staffing reductions at the VA. Senator Patricia Fahy and other officials, including Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, have voiced concerns about the impact on veterans. Santabarbara has filed a federal records request to understand the data behind the decision.
Despite the VA's plan to expand services at other locations, the decision has sparked significant opposition. Officials have sent letters to the VA seeking a reversal of the closure. Veterans and lawmakers gathered at the clinic on Wednesday (April 8) to protest the decision, emphasizing the importance of local healthcare access.
As the August closure date approaches, the coalition remains hopeful that their efforts will convince the VA to keep the clinic open, ensuring that veterans continue to receive the care they need without added burdens.