Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson, a member of the House Appropriations Committee, today praised the House passage of the Fiscal Year 2011 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill.
“This bill provides critical funding for our nation’s veterans, and I am pleased to see that the House has approved this legislation in a timely manner,” said Simpson.  “Our veterans have made tremendous sacrifices to protect our freedom, and we have a responsibility to provide them with the very best service in return.”
The Military Construction and Veterans Affairs bill provides funding for military construction projects on bases in the United States and throughout the world, and it also provides funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Veterans Health Administration.  Funding is provided for a variety of veterans’ programs, including compensation for veterans and survivors, pension payments for disabled veterans, widows and children, training and tuition assistance, and veterans’ medical care and treatment. 
“Taking care of our veterans is one of our highest priorities as a nation,” said Simpson.  “I am proud that this bill provides sufficient funding to ensure they receive the care and treatment they deserve.”
The bill passed the House by a vote of 411-6. It now awaits consideration in the Senate.