JOINS IN APPROVING MILITARY CONSTRUCTION AND VETERANS AFFAIRS APPROPRIATIONS ACT

Washington, Jul 10, 2009 - “It is imperative that we keep faith with out nation’s veterans, and as a veteran myself, I am committed to providing the programs and benefits they earned,” said Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Sixth). “This measure increases funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) by $9 billion, including a 15-perent increase for veterans health programs.”

Stearns joined the House today in approving H.R. 3082, the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act. Explained Stearns, “This measure provides $55.9 billion for the VA, $9 billion more than last year’s level. This includes $47.2 billion for the Veterans Health Administration. Funding of $4.9 billion for medical facilities will keep on track the opening of the new Patient Bed Tower at the Gainesville VA Medical Center and the new Regional VA Healthcare Facility in south Marion County. In addition, H.R. 3082 includes $24.5 billion for military construction and military housing.”