MEASURE FILLS THE FUNDING GAP FACED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

Washington, Jul 1, 2005 - "Veterans earned their benefits in service to our nation, and I am committed to fulfilling the promises made to them," said Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Ocala), and Vice-Chairman of the Veterans Health Subcommittee. "I realize that millions of veterans depend on the VA for their healthcare, and Florida has the second largest veterans population. I will continue my efforts to ensure funding for the new inpatient tower at the Gainesville VA Medical Center, as well as the new Regional VA Health Care Facility in the Sixth District."

The House last night approved H.R. 3130, the Veterans Healthcare Supplemental Appropriations Act, providing $975 million more this year for VA healthcare programs. "This measure includes $273 million to fund healthcare for veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, including members of the Guard and Reserve; $226 million for the VA's long-term nursing home program; $200 million for unanticipated increases in healthcare for priority group 1-6 veterans; $95 million for the increase in energy and fuel costs; $84 million to purchase emergency medical equipment; $39 million for the increase in benefits for dependants of 100-percent service-connected veterans; and the rest for assorted VA heath programs," explained Stearns.