Senate Passes Hirono Bill to Save Veteran Housing Programs

Statement

The U.S. Senate today approved the extension of a package of veteran health and benefit programs, which includes the Keeping Our Commitment to Ending Veteran Homelessness Act authored by Senators Mazie K. Hirono and John Boozman (R-AR) to renew a number of important veteran housing programs. Without action, these programs, which served over 600 Hawaii veterans in 2015, would have expired on September 30. The package also includes Sen. Hirono's bill, S. 3246, which renews authority for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Regional Office in Manila, Philippines, keeping it open for business.

"I thank my colleagues for joining me in sending a strong message that we are committed to ending veteran homelessness," said Senator Hirono. "Providers across the country, including U.S. VETS- Barber's Point and Catholic Charities Hawaii, will be able to continue their critical work helping veterans and their families to get off the streets and into stable homes."

"Approving this legislation is essential to fulfilling our commitment to the men and women who served our nation in uniform," said Senator Boozman. "Our veterans earned these benefits. That's why it's necessary to take action to prevent important programs like those that aim to prevent veteran homelessness, from expiring at the end of the month. We need to continue the momentum we've seen in Arkansas that enables veterans to get the help they need to rebuild their lives. I'm pleased to support this important legislation and will continue to advance policies that protect our veterans."

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