John Bel Edwards: “I consider abdication of responsibility only passing two out of 13 appropriation bills last year. Today is a good day…”

“I consider abdication of responsibility only passing two out of 13 appropriation bills last year. Today is a good day for America's veterans. As someone who has fought hard for veterans over the years, I want to applaud Chairman Obey and Democratic leaders for placing such a high priority on veterans in this resolution. It is the right thing to do. Our veterans fought for our country, and now it is time for us to stand up for them. Unfortunately, though, since October 1 of last year, for the last 4 months, VA health care has been woefully underfunded. Why? Because those who are arguing against this resolution today failed to pass for the entire year the 2007 VA appropriations bill when they were in charge of this House and the other body, continued underfunding that put veterans health care seriously at risk. VA medical care in this resolution has increased by $3.6 billion. That means $300 million each month once this resolution becomes law, helping to provide better health care for our men and women who have served our country. Without the vital funding increase in this resolution, millions of veterans could see their health care services reduced.”