Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019

Floor Speech

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Mr. VALADAO. Mr. Chairman, as a member of the committee of jurisdiction, I am proud to rise today in strong support of the fiscal year 2019 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill.

Our military servicemembers have made immeasurable sacrifices for our Nation, and we are forever indebted to the brave men and women who have served. Providing access to benefits ranging from medical care to education opportunities is a small, yet important, symbol of gratitude for their service.

The bill before us today improves the management of the VA facilities across the Nation and rebuilds our military infrastructure at facilities such as Naval Air Station Lemoore in California's 21st Congressional District, the district I have the honor of representing.

But, most importantly, the legislation ensures our veterans get the care they deserve. In fact, I am proud to say this historic piece of legislation provides the VA with more financial resources than any other previous year, resources desperately needed in order to ensure our veterans receive the services and treatment they have earned and truly deserve.

In rural areas like California's Central Valley, where unemployment is high and primary care options are limited, healthcare options are, unfortunately, inadequate. This is especially true for our Nation's veterans living in rural America. However, this package delivers targeted, results-oriented solutions to increase access to healthcare for 3 million veterans living in rural communities across the Nation.

On top of that, more than 450,000 veterans from coast to coast are waiting to be compensated for medical claims they have submitted to the VA, and this is simply unacceptable. As a result of this legislation, we can cut through that backlog and provide our veterans with the financial relief they desperately need.

Mr. Chairman, I stand here today representing the 22,000 veterans who call California's 21st Congressional District home. They have sacrificed so much for us and it is past time that we repay the favor.

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