The Department of Veterans Affairs says it’s had some major successes in using automation to speed up its disability claims process. But if VA’s moving to a world of automation, Congress wants to help guide it. Legislation the House passed last month would require the department to adhere to a list of principles in future automation projects – and to lay out a five year plan for each major IT modernization project in the Veterans Benefits Administration. Congressman Mark Takano (D-Cali.) is chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee. He talked with the Federal Drive about some of the issues Congress wants to keep tabs on.