Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in support of H.R. 3521, the Department of Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Lease Authorization Act of 2013. Mr. Speaker, this bill would authorize a number of major medical facility leases that will ensure veterans continue to receive care in safe, efficient, and modern clinics closer to home. Last year, much to our disappointment, we were unable to pass a lease authorization bill. As a result, H.R. 3521 contains lease requests for fiscal years 2013 and 2014. Twenty-seven leases are included in this bill. From New Jersey to Hawaii, veterans can expect long awaited expansions to cramped community-based outpatient clinics, new clinical research space, and sorely needed replacement facilities. This bill is a bipartisan bill and in the best interest of America's veterans. I appreciate the efforts of my colleagues across the aisle, especially Chairman Miller, for the collaborative effort that permitted this important legislation to move forward. Mr. Speaker, I know you will agree with me that it is our obligation to ensure that our veterans are provided the best care possible in a timely and safe manner. I believe H.R. 3521, as amended, will do just that. I reserve the balance of my time.”