Political Quotes

“The committee opposed the Department's tentative decision last fall to convert almost a billion dollars of funding for homeless programs from special purpose funding to general purpose funding. This action would have been a fundamental change to the manner in which medical care funding is allocated to the field, and I support giving more local flexibility to Veterans Integrated Service Networks and medical center directors. {time} 1015 However, I strongly support transparency when it comes to changing the levels that Congress sets for VA programs. We are the appropriations institution. We are the ones that make those decisions. The proposed realignment by VA would have potentially risked funding for essential programs such as the Supportive Services for Veteran Families Program. Thankfully, after numerous discussions with the committee and public outrage, the Department decided not to move forward with its proposal in FY18. We fully expect for the VA to comply with the levels that we set for programs; and if the levels need to be adjusted, then the VA must consult with Congress before making changes. I thank the gentleman from California for his amendment, and I believe it sends a strong message to the Department that it must respect congressional priorities. I urge all Members to support the gentleman's amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time. The Acting CHAIR. The question is on the amendment offered by the gentleman from California (Mr. Peters).…”