On the recordJuly 13, 2022
I come before the House of Representatives to discuss the newest and best version of the PACT Act before us today. Putting the needs of our veterans first is something we can all agree on. On March 3, the House passed a version of the PACT Act that was unworkable and unaffordable. At that time, I joined my colleagues in calling for negotiations and refinements that would best help the veterans and gain bipartisan support, and I voted ``no'' on that original bill. The bill that we have before us today is the result of those long and difficult negotiations. This version of the bill reinforces why I opposed it during the initial passage. When we work together and put the well-being of veterans above partisan politics, we get a workable, effective bill that will save the lives of those who have given so much for us. It is not a perfect bill. There remains language, including the costs and mandatory spending that are somewhat troubling, but I am confident that we will be vigilant about carrying out our oversight of the implementation of those provisions and the spending associated with them. I also call on the moneys moved to mandatory spending be moved back to discretionary when we take back the majority. America's veterans who were exposed to toxins during their voluntary military service in combat to preserve America's liberty and freedoms will finally receive the healthcare and benefits they need.…
