On the recordFebruary 7, 2019
I thank Representative Brownley for introducing this legislation to help our veterans and their families. Madam Chair, I am offering this amendment to clarify that the childcare benefit be made available for veterans while they are actively participating in VA healthcare services, i.e., when they are traveling to or attending VA appointments, and not at any other time. This small clarification will ensure that the childcare assistance is reserved for veterans who need it most and that it does not accidentally replace more long-term childcare programs. If there is a need for an expanded childcare program, I believe it should be created separately, and I would be happy to work with my colleagues on that. Madam Chair, I ask my colleagues to support this amendment, and I reserve the balance of my time.
