Conflict Subsides in Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs Following Leadership Shake-Up
Tension within the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs (ADVA) appears to be easing after the recent ousting of former Commissioner Kent Davis. The public fallout involving Davis, Governor Kay Ivey, and various departments has sparked discussions on potential long-term changes in the selection of state VA leadership.
Currently, the ADVA commissioner is appointed by the Alabama Veterans Affairs Board, which comprises members nominated by the governor from veterans’ organizations, such as the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. However, proposed legislation during the upcoming 2025 session could shift this process, making the commissioner a direct appointee of the governor, thereby transforming the board into a more advisory role representative of Alabama’s 400,000 veterans.
Sen. Andrew Jones, chairman of the Senate Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Safety Committee, noted a growing consensus among stakeholders in favor of this shift, emphasizing that the next ADVA commissioner should report directly to the governor. He expressed his commitment to further discussions with veterans groups to ensure their voices are heard in the transition.
Davis’s removal stemmed from a power dispute after the board resisted Ivey’s call for his resignation, which was prompted by concerns over the handling of American Rescue Plan Act grants and allegations of ethics violations. Rep. Ed Oliver, chairman of the House Military and Veterans Affairs Committee, expressed disappointment over the leadership disputes overshadowing the focus on veterans’ needs and pledged to steer discussions back on track.
As Alabama’s legislative session approaches, key issues such as expanding veterans courts and enhancing National Guard recruitment are already on the agenda, reaffirming a commitment to prioritizing veterans’ interests amidst leadership changes.
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