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DEMOCRATIC PRESS RELEASE

March 27, 2007

Veterans Groups Join Democrats in Support of Budget Resolution

Outstanding Marks for First Quarter Veterans Report

Washington, D.C. –Today, Chairman Bob Filner (D-CA) was joined by veterans service organizations, Chairman of the Committee on the Budget John Spratt (D-SC), Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Chet Edwards (D-TX), and members of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee to unveil a significant budget that begins to address the needs of America’s veterans.

“This week, the House will consider the budget for 2008 which increases VA health care by $6.6 billion over 2007 figures,” said Filner, Chair of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee. “This increased funding is $3.5 billion over the Administration’s request. Democrats have demonstrated unwavering support for our nation’s veterans by working for the largest annual increase in VA health care spending in 77 years.”

A number of veterans’ service organizations have offered support for the budget proposal, including The American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, Veterans of Foreign Wars and Disabled American Veterans.

“In the first three months of this Congress, we have demonstrated that Democrats recognize veterans’ health care as a cost of war,” said Chairman Filner. “In February, we passed a Continuing Resolution that included $3.6 billion above the 2006 baseline. Then, last week the House passed a Supplemental Appropriations Act for 2007 that included $1.7 billion for key veterans programs.”

“I want to thank Speaker Pelosi, Chairman Spratt, Chairman Obey, Chairman Edwards, the members of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee and the countless veterans and veterans groups that have worked tirelessly to ensure that this budget recognizes the importance of veterans,” said Chairman Filner. “As a Congress, we are acting on behalf of a grateful nation. This budget shows the respect, love and dignity that our veterans deserve.”

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Larry Scott

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