Thank you, Mr. Chairman, Mr. McGovern, and members of the Committee. I want to thank each of you for the opportunity to testify on the FY24 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs bill.
This is a good bill because it supports our troops and their families and the Nation’s veterans.
We provide almost $800 million above the budget request for military construction and family housing.
We focus this funding to deter China’s aggression in the Pacific and on barracks and child development centers.
We fully fund veterans’ programs at the requested level, while strengthening our oversight of the VA.
In response to VA’s actions, this bill includes the Hyde Amendment. This will ensure tax dollars are not used to fund elective abortions.
I know my friend and ranking member, Ms. Wasserman Schultz, opposes this provision and several others.
However, I am glad we are at this step in the process and hope we can continue to work together to support our troops and veterans.
I thank you again for holding this hearing. I am ready to answer your questions.
I yield back.
Source: U.S. Department of HCA