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VA Bans Chaplains from Mentioning Nurse Amid Controversy

1/31/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Chaplains at Veterans Affairs facilities in Massachusetts must not mention nurse Alex Pretti during worship or offer staff support.
The VA said the restriction is temporary until further guidance is provided.
VA spokespeople clarified that this is not national policy and that employees can memorialize Pretti respectfully.
The situation has caused frustration among VA staff, who say morale is low because of budget cuts and staff shortages.

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Story summary

Chaplains at Veterans Affairs facilities in Massachusetts must not mention nurse Alex Pretti during worship or offer staff support.
The VA said the restriction is temporary until further guidance is provided.
VA spokespeople clarified that this is not national policy and that employees can memorialize Pretti respectfully.
The situation has caused frustration among VA staff, who say morale is low because of budget cuts and staff shortages.