wrtv.com · WRTV Staff · September 9, 2026
US Rep. Spartz seeks transparency over $2 billion VA investment in Indiana - WRTV
# US Rep. Spartz seeks transparency over $2 billion VA investment in Indiana
The Richard L. Roudebush Veterans Affairs Medical Center is shown April 23, 2025, in Indianapolis.
by: WRTV Staff
Posted: Sep 9, 2026 / 12:26 AM EST / Updated: Sep 9, 2026 / 12:27 AM EST
WASHINGTON (WISH) — U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz is asking the Department of Veterans Affairs in a letter sent Tuesday for more information on how the agency plans to spend $2 billion on healthcare facilities in Indiana.
The Republican sent a letter VA Secretary Doug Collins and Veteran Health Indiana Director Mike Hershman. The funding is for modernizing the Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center in Indianapolis and a new clinic planned for Fishers. Congress approved the funding that was part of President Donald Trump’s 2027 budget proposal.
The VA in May said the Roudebush funding would be used to repair roofs on two buildings and to replace the parking garage sprinkler system.
The congresswoman asked for a breakdown of costs, plus details on the bidding process. She specifically questioned the selection of IU Health for the Fishers clinic and asked for a list of other providers the VA considered. Spartz’s 5th congressional district includes Fishers and parts of Indianapolis.
In her letter, Spartz expressed concern that large healthcare providers might shift overhead costs to taxpayers. She requested a response from the agency by Oct. 8.
“After meeting with veterans across my district, it is clear that we still have significant work to do to improve access and quality of care, particularly in mental health,” Spartz said in a news release issued along with a copy of the letter. “With roughly $2 billion of taxpayer money at stake, we need transparency, real competition, and accountability to make sure these investments actually deliver better care for Hoosier veterans.”
Spartz argued that high spending does not always lead to better results.
“More spending does not automatically mean better care,” she said in the release. “Congress has an obligation to make sure these dollars are spent efficiently and transparently for the benefit of our veterans — not special interests.”