Issue Position: Veterans

Issue Position

Nothing less than everything we can afford should be spent on our veteran's medical and after-service care. There was a time when this nation did not provided enough of the right kind of care, and I supported and fought for legislation to make sure that never happens again.

I worked with veteran's groups to pass legislation, accommodating troops returning from the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. In addition, I supported and the House passed significant increases for mental health services, prosthetics and dental care. In September the House approved a record $47.6 billion for the Department of Veterans Affairs, which is $4.5 billion above 2008 and $2.8 billion over the President's request. This funding will provide substantial increases in veterans' medical services, facilities, and research, including two new VA clinics expected to open in Tomball and Katy.

Since taking their leadership position, the Democrats have not brought legislation to help our veterans returning from war. Our veterans will continue needing Congressional support and I pledge to be there for them, every step of the way.

My votes and work to support veterans has included:

Voted for $24.5 billion increase in Veteran Medical Services.

Stopped increases in medical fees for veterans.

Increased financial support for families of veterans injured or killed in combat.

Supported legislation that instituted a 2.7% pay raise for all members of our armed forces.

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