WASHINGTON (June 8, 2007) – Congressman Chandler joined his colleagues on the Appropriations Committee this week to pass the 2008 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill, which includes a $6.7 billion increase for the Department of Veterans Affairs budget, the largest increase in the VA’s 77-year history.

“The service that our brave military men and women provide our country is immeasurable.  Nothing is more important, especially during a time of conflict, than supporting our men and women in uniform,” said Congressman Ben Chandler. “This bill provides historic increases in funding for our troops, their families and our veterans.”

This bill represents the first time that the House has ever met the Independent Budget request prepared by veterans’ service organizations.  The bill will significantly reduce the 400,000 claims backlog in the Veterans Administration by adding over 1100 new claims processors.  It also increases funding to address the VA’s repair and maintenance needs to improve the conditions at facilities like Walter Reed.

“By passing this bipartisan legislation, Congress has kept its promise to our veterans by ensuring that they receive the help and resources they need when they return home from battle,” said Chandler.

In addition to increases in funding for the VA, this bill provides an increase of $8.2 billion above 2007 levels for military construction, family housing and the base realignment and closure process (BRAC).  This funding will be used to provide better barracks, housing and training facilities when troops return from combat.  Furthermore, this bill provides funds to increase our military readiness by adding 65,000 Army, 27,000 Marine, and 9,000 National Guard and Reserve troops.

The bill passed the Appropriations Committee with unanimous support and is expected to be voted on by the full House next week.

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