Patty Murray Praises VA Bill for Veterans' Commitment and Military Infrastructure

VA Bill Markup and Reporting

• 📌 The Senate Appropriations Committee met to mark up the House Milcon VA bill (HR 3944) for the fiscal year ending September 30th, 2026.
• ✅ The motion to report the bill favorably passed with a vote of 25 ayes and 3 nays, despite some members expressing concerns about the appropriations process.

Key Investments for Veterans

• 💖 Senator Murray highlighted that the bill lives up to the nation's commitment to veterans by providing necessary funding and making crucial investments.
• 🏥 Funding levels for essential VA care programs, including rural health, women's health, medical research, and the caregivers program, will be put into statute for the first time.
• 👶 An expanded pilot program aims to ensure child care is not a barrier to veterans seeking care.
• 🏠 Increased funding is allocated to address veteran homelessness and mental health needs.

Support for Service Members and National Security

• 🏗️ The bill includes investments for nearly 300 construction projects, such as new family housing and child development centers.
• 🌍 Investments are also designated to bolster the US footprint in the Pacific and support NATO projects.
• 🛡️ These measures are deemed incredibly important for service members, veterans, and national security.