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  • Report:  #1526538

Complaint Review: Mauricio Solis Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor - El Paso Texas

Reported By:
veteran - El Paso, Texas, United States
Submitted:
Updated:

Mauricio Solis Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
7500 Viscount Blvd ste C-50 El Paso, 79925 Texas, United States
Web:
N/A
Categories:
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Report Attachments

Honorable Denis Richard McDonough

Department of Veterans Affairs, Secretary. 

 

A few experiences to share with you, about the VR&E Program in El Paso, Texas: 

 

On April 30, 2023, veteran emails Ms Beagle about a denial letter he got in the mail.  Few emails later, the conclusion was that the denial letter had been sent in error.  ‘Disregard the letter’ wrote Ms. Beagle on May 3.  She further added that, ‘you’ll get a letter or a contact soon when the appointment will be…’ SEE IMAGE LABELED ‘DENIAL LETTER.’

 

On May 5, 2023, Mr. Solis addresses personal email to veteran, requesting ‘transcripts’ after ‘each term.’  Four days later, May 9, 2023, vet emails Mr. Solis for a second time, asking him to clarify the context of his request (i.e. what ‘transcripts’ ? what ‘terms’ ? etc.)  That same day, Mr. Solis responds: ‘...this email does not apply to you…’  another instance where erroneous information is addressed and sent to the veteran.   SEE IMAGE LABELED ‘ERRATIC EMAIL.’   

 Ripoffreport Report Image

On May 19, 2013, the veteran meets Mr. Solis for the so-called ‘entitlement appointment.’  Turns out, the meeting had to be rescheduled, in part, because Mr. Solis did not receive an email sent by the veteran containing email attachments of documents (aptitude-test results) required for the meeting. SEE IMAGE LABELED ‘ATTACHMENTS’

 

 Consequently, Mr. Solis promptly scheduled the ‘entitlement’ meeting for May 26, and a second ‘entitlement meeting’ for June 2.  And now, the question is whether we have two entitlement meetings to attend or is it just one, and if so, which one?  Is this another instance of information being sent in error ?  Mr. Solis was contacted to clarify the situation but so far hasn't explained much about it, other than to confirm the ‘entitlement appointment’ for June 2 is in fact an ‘entitlement appointment’.      

 

As per the instructions provided by Mr. Solis, and in order to prepare for the ‘entitlement’ meeting rescheduled to take place on June 2, the veteran, once again, emailed to Mr. Solis, the same aptitude-test results mentioned in the paragraph above.  This time, Mr. Solis did receive the email, but now, Mr Solis claims he is ‘unable to open these attachments.’  The veteran suggested a solution to open the files but Mr. Solis' response was: ‘You can also use genius scan on your phone to send them to me…’  (SEE IMAGE LABELED ‘UNABLE TO OPEN ATTACHMENTS.’)  At this point, we can ask ourselves whether or not Mr. Solis is incurring in acts of self-sabotage.  and if that is the case, you will agree that it is a bad idea to engage Mr. Solis on his terms.  This is why this situation is brought to your attention, hoping that you will provide the leadership needed by Mr. Solis.  This type of misconduct/self-sabotage reflects a very poor organizational culture of at the Department of Veterans Affairs.   

 

Mr Solis is free to answer veteran’s questions in any way that he likes, either with information that does not apply to the veteran, or with any other ambiguous answers.  Let us be clear, however, that from now on, every instance to create confusion or manipulation will be documented, and addressed to you, Mr. Secretary, for clarification. Abuse of power by union workers is unacceptable. 



3 Updates & Rebuttals

Veteran who served the nation honorably during time of war

Sun City,
Texas,
United States
The toxic culture at the Department of Veterans Affairs

#2Author of original report

Sat, July 01, 2023

UPDATE #3:  As we approach Independence Day, my thoughts on the toxic culture at VA.  

Date: July 1st, 2023.

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I am a veteran using the VR&E benefits to get a job in IT.   I am working with a counselor by the name Mr Mauricio Solis.  For the most part, my experience has been poor, to say the least.  One thing that stands out is that Mr Solis doesn’t answer questions, the documentation he produces is vague and ambiguous, and to make matters worse, Mr. Solis recently claimed he couldn’t read basic English sentences like the ones you’re reading now—communication is trashed, as he continues to engage in erratic behavior regarding his duties as counselor.  In order to protect myself, I’ve decided to document those instances in this website just to keep a record available that I can access at moment’s notice, should any controversies arise.  Another advantage of keeping this record, is that the American public can see and witness first hand in a more realistic way the problems within the department of Veterans Affairs. 

As a veteran dealing with these problems at the VA, I have come to understand that these on-going scandals at the VA arise, in good measure, due to the obvious conflict of interest that arises when the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), donates money to the Democratic Party: the implied risk is that accepting money from AFGE, the Democratic Party becomes more willing to overlook obvious problems affecting both, veterans and employees.  In fact, this is true every time that special interest groups leverage political parties with money and votes. The implied risk that arises from this conflict of interest, is detrimental to the government agency, but also, to our democracy in general.  For, why would public servants care about the general public when special interest groups keep them in power with money and votes?  Hopefully, our leadership in congress and senate will take my view into consideration to achieve a more balanced government that serves the people. 

These are the sources I reviewed to form my opinion about the toxic culture at the VA, and the relationship between The Democratic Party and the AFGE Union.   

As of June 2020, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) employed 412,892 people. (SOUCRE: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Department_of_Veterans_Affairs). The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), the largest federal employee union, represented over 265,000 of these VA employees. This suggests that at least 64% (265,000 out of 412,892) of VA employees are represented by AFGE​ (SOURCE: https://www.afge.org/publication/largest-veterans-affairs-employee-union-reaches-historic-settlement-to-restore-worker-rights/)​.

Regarding political contributions, the AFGE is not only the largest federal employee union but also the one that donates the most money to political candidates, typically through a political action committee (PAC). During the 2019-2020 election cycle, AFGE donated $1,231,446 to candidates for elected office, either directly or through other political organizations. Of this amount, $1,205,406, which is about 98% of the total contributions, went to Democrats and liberal groups. In contrast, a much smaller portion, $25,500, was given to Republicans​ (SOURCE: https://www.fedsmith.com/2020/01/27/federal-employees-unions-political-donations/).

Based on the sources provided below, it is clear that veterans and employees face a multitude of challenges due to corruption and misconduct in the AFGE leadership.  Corruption and misconduct that has spanned for decades long. 

Firstly, a shocking email from a VA employee mocking veteran suicide underscores the deeply concerning disregard for the mental health issues plaguing veterans, who are committing suicide at an alarming rate. This incident reflects a deep-seated issue within the organization that fails to address the mental health crises amongst veterans, a population that is particularly vulnerable to such issues.  (Source: https://www.indystar.com/story/news/politics/2015/03/08/va-managers-email-mocks-veteran-suicides/24602495/).

In 2014, former Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki publicly apologized for a scandal involving the mishandling of veterans' wait times for doctors' appointments. Shinseki expressed regret over his misplaced trust in VA officials who provided faulty accounts of how wait lists were handled, leading him to believe the issue was isolated and not systemic. This incident pointed to a lack of integrity among some leaders in healthcare facilities, a challenge rarely encountered by Shinseki during his time in uniform. (source: https://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2014/05/eric-shinseki-apologizes-for-va-scandal-i-was-too-trusting).

Furthermore, the case of J. David Cox, the former National President of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), who was accused of sexual harassment, discrimination, and misuse of union funds, highlights the issue of misconduct within union leadership. The lawsuit brought against him was partially dismissed due to jurisdictional and other technical issues. However, allegations against Cox for misuse of union funds and creating a hostile work environment remain. (source: https://www.govexec.com/workforce/2021/08/judge-dismisses-most-abuse-victims-lawsuit-against-afge-officials/184489/)

Finally, the case of Felix Luciano, the AFGE President in San Diego, still under investigation for “one count of making a false statement, and five counts of wire fraud…While AFGE union boss corruption isn’t a rare phenomenon, it’s not often that we hear of someone caught for six different occasions of criminal activity.” (source: https://nilrr.org/2022/11/afge-boss-felix-luciano-arrested-for-6-criminal-acts/).

These instances of corruption and misconduct within leadership positions pose significant challenges for veterans and employees, impacting their wellbeing and trust in the organizations meant to support them. It's clear that such issues need to be addressed promptly and thoroughly to protect the rights and interests of veterans and employees. 

ps.  As we approach Independence Day, I want to say thanks to the Department of Veterans Affairs for all of its support throughout this time, despite the problems associated with the union workers.  Also, many thanks to the ripoffreport.com for allowing me this space to express my views and show my evidence in order to protect myself against arbitrary decisions by union workers at VA--this is particularly important because no one else wanted to hear my story.      


veteran who served the nation honorably during time of war

Sun City,
Texas,
United States
Subject: Need for Clear Communication and Adherence to Office Hours

#3Author of original report

Sat, July 01, 2023

UPDATE #2, June 30 2023.  

 

HON Denis Richard McDonough, VA Secretary:

I am writing to provide clarification regarding my scheduled appointment with VR&E counselor, Mr. Mauricio Solis, on June 30, 2023.

On June 29, 2023, I sent an email to Mr. Solis to inform him of my intention to visit his office after 2 PM to discuss some issues related to paperwork. My understanding was that this timing would be appropriate given that his office hours are from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

I arrived at Mr. Solis' office at 3 PM, only to be informed by the receptionist that he had left for the day. This was perplexing, as it fell within his stated office hours.

Upon returning home, I discovered an email from Mr. Solis stating, "I waited for you until 2:30 and had to cancel the appointment with Mr. Ordonez due to you not showing up." I feel compelled to clarify that I did indeed arrive at his office after 2 PM, as initially indicated, and within his posted office hours. The complication arose because Mr. Solis was not present at his assigned workplace during these hours.

Should there have been a valid reason for Mr. Solis' early departure, I believe it is crucial for him to take responsibility for his absence, rather than suggesting I did not uphold my commitment.  Accountability is essential for maintaining the integrity and efficiency of our interaction.

I'm documenting this incident as it's vital to identify and understand potential patterns that might need rectification.  This occurrence is a part of a larger concern about irregularities that seem to be affecting the process adversely.

Your understanding and attention to this matter are greatly appreciated. Thank You


VETERAN WHO SERVED THE NATION HONORABLE DURING TIME OF WAR

SUN CITY,
Texas,
United States
UPDATE 01: REGARDING MR MAURICIO SOLIS ERRATIC BEHAVIOUR AND AMBIGUOUS/LACK OF ANSWERS

#4Author of original report

Thu, June 22, 2023

UPDATE 01: REGARDING MR MAURICIO SOLIS ERRATIC BEHAVIOUR AND AMBIGUOUS/LACK OF ANSWERS

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HONORABLE DENIS R. MCDONOUGH, VA SECRETARY:

This update serves the purpose to document my interaction with Mr. Mauricio Solis.  Through the VR&E program from the VA, I plan to buy computers in the US and sell them to US businesses in Mexico.  To access the VR&E program there is series of ‘steps’ each involving a certain amount of paperwork that must be delivered to the VR&E office. Here is how things are going so far.

On or about MAY 31ST, 2023, I sent the requested documents by email, and in the form of a google drive link.  They were uploaded to google drive because the file was too large and could not be sent as regular email attachments. 

On or about JUNE 1ST, 2023 I sent Mr. Solis an email asking to confirm whether he had received the paperwork. 

That same day, on JUNE 1ST, 2023 Mr. Solis emails me back stating: ‘send it directly to here, and thank you.’

Given that Mr. Solis’ answer fails to provide the requested confirmation, on or about JUNE 1ST, 2023, I sent Mr. Solis’ another email to include a second request for confirmation.  There was no response.  All of these emails, ranging from May 31st to June 1st are contained in the attachment provided. 

On JUNE 2ND, 2023, I stopped by the VR&E Office to deliver the paperwork myself.  During that visit I asked Mr. Solis whether or no he had received the documents sent by email the day before.  On that occasion Mr. Solis replied he had not been able to download them, good thing is that I had a copy and deliver it.  At the time, Mr. Solis also claimed he could not understand my written emails. 

On this same day, June 2nd, Mr. Solis gave me another list of documents that I must deliver by July 2nd.  We had a brief conversation where I asked some questions, and Mr. Solis mostly replied that I had to do the research to find out.  Derived from that conversation, Mr. Solis also send me two emails, and stated that the recipients would contact me later--to this day, nobody has contacted me about it.  An awkward thing about these two emails is that they are pretty much empty, for Mr Solis didn’t write anything other than his signature block and a certain slogan. One of the emails does include the statement in red bold letters: Suicide is Everyone’s Business. #BeThere.  Coming from union workers at VA, these statements are to be taken with a grain of salt.  Please read the article in the link below, to learn of an instance in which union workers jerked a veteran around and then mocked its later suicide https://www.indystar.com/story/news/politics/2015/03/08/va-managers-email-mocks-veteran-suicides/24602495/

Moving on to my email communication with Mr. Solis, I got an email from a VA app called ‘eva’ with the following text: “while you and Mauricio are developing your plan of services, please let me know if your circumstances change preventing you from progressing to the next step.”

Given Mr. Solis’ erratic behavior and his inability to understand my writing as he has himself claimed to be the case, it is better to avoid making assumptions about this later email, so, today I emailed Mr. Solis asking for clarification.  This is important to avoid misunderstandings in the future.  And most concerning of all, is that Mr. Solis erratic behavior resembles what is known as ‘gaslighting’. 

One thing very important to note here, is that in my view, Mr Solis is a hardworking man trying to support his family.  If there is any wrongdoing on his part, it is due to the fact that he is subordinated to the union that controls VA staff.  If the union tells you to make a fool out of yourself, you have to do it, regardless.  Aware of that fact, based on previous experiences, it is important to document my interaction with Mr. Solis.  Documentation will show if there is manipulation. 

ALL EMAILS DISCUSSED ARE ATTACHED AS PICTURES IN THIS REPORT

 

Pd.  Please let it be known that as a veteran, I am very appreciative of the Department of Veterans Affairs and all of is staff. Equally grateful I am to the ripoffreport.com for letting me post these reports as a mechanism to protect myself from the abuse of union leaders that control VA staff. 

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