June 14, 2011

To view video of Congressman Altmire's June 2nd floor speech on his amendment, click here.

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Today, an amendment authored by U.S. Congressman Jason Altmire (PA-04) that will improve veterans' access to quality prosthetics passed the House as part of the FY 2012 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Bill. This appropriations bill originally significantly cut funding for medical and prosthetic research at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), despite the fact that multiple veterans have told Congress that the transition from prosthetic care at the Department of Defense (DoD) to their local VA is often sluggish and inconsistent, which can impact their everyday life. Congressman Altmire's amendment, which was endorsed by the American Legion, will help the VA improve its prosthetics by restoring much of its research funding at no new cost to taxpayers.

"Our wounded warriors deserve to have access to the highest quality health care throughout their lives," Congressman Altmire said. "It is simply unacceptable many veterans have seen a disparity between the quality of care they received at the DoD facilities and the care available through the VA. My amendment will help to rectify this problem by providing the VA with additional resources so it can better meet veterans' needs."

This amendment is Congressman Altmire's 41st legislative initiative to pass the House during his Congressional career. In all, Congressman Altmire has authored seven bills dealing directly with veterans' issues that have been signed into law.

To view video of Congressman Altmire's floor speech, click here.