On the recordApril 29, 2015
I thank the gentleman from California for offering this opportunity to clarify the meaning of our report language. I do share your concern about the mismanagement of construction projects by the VA. It is delaying vital projects such as Livermore. In this report, we simply made clear the priority for funding hospital construction and seismic corrections. Within the funds provided in the bill, unallocated major construction funding remains available, and the VA has the ability to allocate those funds towards French Camp as well as other projects in the budget request. The report instructs the VA to make that determination and provide a list of projects to this committee. I have heard similar concerns from other Members, including the gentlelady, Ms. Lee, who just spoke a few moments ago, who have projects included in this request, such as Alameda Clinic and a rehabilitative therapy clinic in St. Louis, which the administration could also choose to fund. I appreciate these concerns and the opportunity to provide some clarity. I hope that is helpful. But nothing precludes funding. Madam Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.
