Spending on military construction and veterans’ health care would increase by billions of dollars under a fiscal year 2018 appropriations bill that U.S. Rep. Charlie Dent (R-PA) led to subcommittee approval on Monday.
The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies approved the fiscal year 2018 appropriations bill on a unanimous voice vote. The legislation provides $88.8 billion in discretionary funding for FY 2018, $6 billion above the FY 2017 level.
“This bill demonstrates the strong support that my colleagues and I have for the brave men and women who have endured hardships and sacrifices through their service to our great nation,” Dent, the chairman of the subcommittee, said. “The bill includes significant resources to provide high-quality, comprehensive care to those who are treated through the Department of Veterans Affairs, to meet the quality of life needs of those currently serving, and to enhance our readiness and defensive posture around the world.”
Increases in VA funding would be dedicated to making health care services more accessible for veterans and to stepping up accountability and transparency. Increased spending on military construction would focus on rebuilding the military, addressing emerging threats and caring for military families.
U.S. Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen (R-NJ), the chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, said the measure upholds “an essential priority” of Republicans to rebuild the military.
“Our servicemen and servicewomen need the tools to do their jobs, and also need the peace of mind that their needs and the needs of their families are being taken care of here at home and around the world,” Frelinghuysen said. “Just as importantly, our veterans — who have sacrificed so much to protect our way of life — deserve the full health services and benefits they have earned.”
Spending on military construction projects would increase by 25 percent to $10.2 billion under the bill. Additionally, the bill calls for $638 million in overseas contingency operations funding for projects in countries with ongoing U.S. operations. Combined discretionary and nondiscretionary funding for the VA would increase $5.3 billion to $182.3 billion.
“By maintaining an emphasis on our veterans and military families, and incorporating their feedback, I am confident that this legislation will bring about positive results for our national heroes,” Dent said. “This bill will allow us to keep the promises made to those who have served while simultaneously ensuring further accountability and oversight for taxpayer dollars.”
The appropriation bill would enhance congressional oversight and transparency through numerous provisions that are designed to address issues and wasteful spending that detract from critical services.
“This legislation includes the funding and policies necessary to deliver on our promises to our military and our veterans,” Frelinghuysen said. “It also includes strong oversight measures to assure that tax dollars are being used wisely and to stop waste and abuse in its tracks, so that our troops and vets get the most benefit of every cent.”