Press Releases

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1) supported passage yesterday of annual legislation funding key veterans’ and military construction programs for Fiscal Year 2013. H.R. 5854 provides funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and military construction projects administered by the federal government. The House passed the legislation 407-12.

“I’m pleased to support this bill today which sets funding levels for one of the most important functions of our government: supporting those who defend this nation,” Wittman said. “This bill ensures a responsible spending level, while increasing key areas for our nations’ veterans. The folks who have and continue to defend our nation deserve the swift attention of Congress, and a commitment to prudent use of taxpayer dollars while ensuring these heroes receive the housing, resources and benefits they earn and deserve.”

H.R. 5854 authorizes $71.7 billion for Military Construction and VA in FY 2013, equal to last year’s spending level. Funding for VA programs in FY 2013 would receive an increase in spending of just under four percent, compared to last year’s spending levels. Other key provisions include increases in spending levels for the Veterans Health Administration and general VA operating expenses, as well as a boost for Arlington National Cemetery.

The bill supports much needed military construction at Dahlgren, Quantico, and Yorktown bases focusing on the improvement of living quarters for servicemembers, along with upgrades for maintenance, training, and headquarters facilities.

Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee.

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