Annie Kuster

I encourage the VA to vitalize this guidance as quickly as possible, and share that with this Committee.

I am the Chair of a bipartisan task force in Congress, we now have 105 Members working together, Republicans and Democrats, on legislation to combat the opioid epidemic.

I recognize the VA has been unable to provide clear guidance in an expeditious manner as to how this research money is to be distributed.

I would love to include the bipartisan Heroine Task Force, and both Committees to engage in this discussion.

Today I rise to speak as a cosponsor of the VA MISSION Act. I appreciate the work of Chairman Roe and Ranking Member Walz in putting this bill together. This bill is almost unanimously supported by the veterans service organization…

During the week of Monday, April 23, 2018, I missed rollcall votes 148-166. Had I been present for these recorded votes, I would have voted as listed below: Rollcall Vote 148: ``aye,'' rollcall Vote 149: ``aye,'' rollcall Vote 150…

I would prefer we actually focus on making that a reality and then pick up, if that in case doesn't happen, then perhaps take up this conversation after.

It is no secret that VA's capital assets are in serious need of repair.

I think we spend a whole lot of money trying to limit care and determine who is eligible for what.

This inherent unfairness about people who need these services, but are not allowed because of an arbitrary date.

Well, now we're not only having an arbitrary date, but now we're having an arbitrary number of issues that you might have.

I have dedicated the past five years of my life. We have a bipartisan task force with 105 Members, Republicans and Democrats, trying to tackle the opioid epidemic all across our country.

I also support the pilot program authorized in this bill which would allow point-of-use testing that could save lives.

A bill to improve fentanyl testing and surveillance authored by Representative Ann Kuster addresses this threat.

What my number one concern is that the outcomes from the task force have credibility with our veteran community.

I urge my colleagues to heed the lesson and deny VA's proposed consolidation of the medical services account and the community care account.

Opening Statement of McLane Kuster, Hon. Ann

Thank you very much. And thank you to my colleague for the shout out about academic affiliates.

I urge my colleagues on the subcommittee to work with the Veteran's Affairs Committee to develop these authorities.

It is imperative that the Appropriations Committee continue to robustly fund the Choice program.

I think you would find the committee to be much more attentive to these details at this point.

I respectfully request that the subcommittee seriously examine leveraging innovative concepts to deliver veterans' health care, both economically and effectively.

Patients must always come first.

I respectfully request that you recognize the importance of FQHCs for the future of the VA community care.

I want to join my colleagues in thanking you, Mr. Dent, for your extraordinary service to our country.