MEASURE INCLUDES FUNDING SOUGHT BY STEARNS FOR VETERANS & FLORIDA NATIONAL GUARD

Washington, Nov 6, 2007 - "As a veteran, I am committed to ensuring that those who served our nation receive the care and benefits they earned defending our freedom," said Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Ocala). "This funding bill provides the largest increase in the Department of Veterans Affairs' 77-year history with $6.7 billion over the previous year's level. In addition, this measure provides funding I sought for a new Regional VA Health Care Facility; two projects at Camp Blanding, the headquarters for the Florida national Guard; and a project supported by the University of Florida."

Stearns today joined the House in approving H.R. 3043, a measure combining the appropriation bills for the Department of Veterans Affairs and Military Construction and the programs of the Labor Department and Department of Health and Human Services. This measure represents the final version developed by the House and Senate to send to the President. H.R. 3043 provides $88 billion for VA programs, including $29 billion for medical services, $4.1 billion for medical facilities, and $41 billion for benefits.

"While meeting our obligation to veterans, I am also grateful that this measure includes funding I sought for important programs benefiting the people of north central Florida," added Stearns. "This includes funding for the new 95,000-square-foot VA Health Care Facility opening next year in South Marion County, $15.52 million for Phase III of the Regional Training Institute at Camp Blanding, $6 million for the new communications facility for the 125th Fighter Wing at Camp Blanding, and $100,000 for the University of Florida's program to deploy smart technologies to assist seniors."