$1.5 BILLION INCLUDED IN FINAL VERSION OF H.R. 2361, DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT & RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT

Washington, Jul 28, 2005 - "The growing number of veterans using the VA health care system combined with increasing costs is creating a shortfall in veterans healthcare funding," said Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Ocala).  "I am pleased that we quickly responded by approving an additional $1.5 billion in veterans healthcare funding for the current fiscal year."  Stearns, a veteran, also serves on the Veterans Health Subcommittee, and had served as the panel's chairman.

The House approved H.R. 2361, the final version of the Department of Interior, Environment & Related Agencies Appropriations Act.  "Our nation's veterans earned their benefits the hard way, in service to our nation on the battlefield protecting the liberties we enjoy each day," added Stearns.  H.R. 2361 reflects the compromise reached by members of the House and Senate, and the President is expected to approve it.