In 2004, the Department of Veterans Affairs announced that in order to meet the growing needs of the nearly 300,000 veterans residing in Central Florida, they would need to construct a new Orlando Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC).      

Unfortunately, after numerous problems, the veterans of Central Florida will continue to remain without this new accessible, fully-functioning, 1.2 million square foot medical center because construction will not be completed by the original target date of October 12, 2012.

This is unacceptable.

Our nation’s service men and women have made tremendous sacrifices in defense of our freedom.  Without them, this would not be the country it is today.  We must ensure that they receive the care and support that they have so honorably earned.  

Moving forward, you can be sure that I will use the evidence we uncover from this field hearing to work with my colleagues on the House Veterans Affairs Committee to get this important project back on track, and to ensure the veterans of Central Florida receive the medical center they deserve.