Political Quotes

“I am pleased and honored to be here today to speak in support of H.R. 5985, the Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act. We will vote on it shortly. I thank my colleagues for what I expect to be an overwhelmingly positive vote to affirm our commitment to the veterans of America and that neither dysfunction nor distraction of what is happening during this season of elections will prevent us from keeping the lights on in the Veterans Affairs Department. As its name implies, this measure would maintain 27 vital ongoing programs and services that the VA provides through the next year. I commend Chairman Miller and Ranking Member Takano in the House for drafting this bipartisan measure that is so important and necessary. We have worked collaboratively with them. Chairman Isakson and I have met with them numerous times, and it has truly been a cooperative and collaborative effort. This legislation authorizes an increase in the existing VA caregivers program of $10 million, going from $724 million to $734 million, as well as a grants program that assists homeless veterans and provides them with support services. The bill we will vote on this evening will also give the Secretary of the VA the exact same power as the Secretary of Education has with respect to title IV in the event of a university's sudden loss of accreditation. It is critically important.…”