In Appropriations Package, Pingree Secures 9% Funding Increase for Veterans, Protects Portsmouth Naval Shipyard from Trump Wall Theft
Press Release
Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) today announced that the House Appropriations Committee has approved a $10 billion funding increase for veterans programs and military construction projects--including assistance for homeless veterans and veterans mental health, and support for survivors of military sexual assault, among other key items. As a member of the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations committee, Pingree voted to approve for the 9 percent funding increase over FY 2019 for these key programs.
"This bill honors our nation's commitment to those who serve by prioritizing funding in their physical and mental health," said Pingree. "I'm proud this bill includes funding for Maine's veterans and protects our shipyard, and I'm particularly happy to see support for survivors of military sexual assault, which has long been a key priority of mine."
Highlights from the appropriation bill include:
$107.6 billion in FY20 and FY21 advanced appropriations for VA medical services ($4.7 billion increase).
$9.5 billion for mental health programs for veterans, including $1.5 billion for suicide prevention and treatment.
$1.9 billion for homeless veterans assistance programs ($40 million more than requested), including $257 million for the Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem program and $380 million for the Supportive Services for Veterans Families (SSVF) program.
Protects Portsmouth Naval Shipyard with bill language prohibiting the use of military construction funding from fiscal years 2015 to 2020, including the four PNSY projects funded in this time period, from being raided to fund Trump's border wall.
Language urging the VA to ensure that all veterans suffering from a mental health disorder as a result of military sexual trauma is eligible to submit a benefit claim under current standards, consistent with Pingree's Servicemembers and Veterans Empowerment and Support Act (H.R. 1092).
$5 million to help treat veterans with brain and psychological health conditions through arts therapies, as part of a focus on whole health treatment for veterans.
$150 million to construct state extended care facilities (67% more than requested by the Administration), which funds projects like the new Maine Veterans Home in Augusta.
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