Prevention is the key. We must develop successful programs to target the estimated 27,000 veterans who are at risk of falling into that cycle every single year.

The present Secretary has set an ambitious goal to end homelessness in 5 years. It is going to be tough, but I am committed to work toward that goal.

I think it even starts earlier than when you get it and it is a debate that we have in this Committee with VA overall.

Where you can share that thought process, that matrix with Congress, it would be extremely helpful because, as I said in my opening statement, we have been starved for information on this plan.

Let there be no mistake, however. The goal is not just to end homelessness in 5 years. It is also to make sure that the solutions are sustainable beyond the 5-year period.

Thank you Ranking Member Burr.

if you are in rural America, you may not have a big homeless program somewhere.

we have to address that veteran, as I said in the opening statement, where they are.

What key legislative provisions will need to be enacted to incorporate the Secretary's 5-year plan?

I want to thank Senators Burr, Hagan, Warner and Webb for their leadership in introducing the Blue Ridge Parkway Protection Act.

I think all would agree that in some cases, an 800-foot swath is not protecting.

I appreciate that, and for purposes again of our members, even the Smithsonian recognized the value of the Blue Ridge Parkway and built a facility off of the parkway which houses the bluegrass museum or the bluegrass inventory of the…