Filner Applauds Passage of Budget Resolution that Increases Veterans’ Funding

Washington, D.C. – House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Bob Filner (D-CA) released the following statement upon Congressional passage of S.Con.Res. 13, the Fiscal Year 2010 Budget Resolution:   

“Congress voted to support President Obama’s budget – a budget that puts veterans first.  The Obama budget calls for the biggest increase for veterans programs ever requested by an Administration.  The Budget Resolution provides for a $5.6 billion increase over fiscal year 2009, an increase of 11.7% for veterans health care and other programs. 

“I am pleased the budget resolution contains language allowing Congress to provide funding for veterans’ health care one year in advance of the regular budget process.  Advanced funding is supported by many veteran service organizations as a way to ensure sufficient, timely and predictable funding for veterans health care. 

“As Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, I would like to thank my colleagues for their commitment to assisting the VA in its goal of becoming a model 21st Century organization.  This Congress shares the Obama Administration’s commitment to improving health care for all veterans, increasing access to mental health services, addressing and preventing homelessness among veterans, and honoring the veterans of previous generations.  President Obama has proven that veterans are a top priority by requesting a record veterans’ budget, and I am confident that under the leadership of VA Secretary Shinseki, we will restore and revitalize the services provided to veterans.”