AMVETS APPLAUDS HOUSE PASSAGE OF 2011 VA BUDGET

LANHAM, Md., July 29, 2010—Last night the House of Representatives passed the fiscal year 2011 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Bill by a vote of 411-6, providing VA for the coming year and advance appropriations for VA health care in 2012.

AMVETS leaders applauded the swift passage of the budget and called on the Senate to pass their version of the appropriations bill, ensuring timely delivery of the VA budget.

“By passing the new VA budget in a timely manner, the House has shown that caring for America’s veterans is a top priority,” said AMVETS National Commander Duane J. Miskulin. “We now hope to see the Senate take similar decisive action, ensuring our veterans have access to the care and benefits they have earned.”

AMVETS, which partners with Disabled American Veterans, Paralyzed Veterans of America and the Veterans of Foreign Wars on the Independent Budget for VA, was satisfied with the House version of the bill, which reflected many of the Independent Budget suggestions.

AMVETS leaders went on to say that they were encouraged to see only a minimal number of irrelevant amendments tacked onto the appropriations bill and that the House process sets a good example for the Senate.

Highlights from the 2011 appropriations bill include increased funding for Agent Orange presumptive disability claims, landmark caregiver benefits, improvements for VA employees tasked with tackling the daunting claims backlog, and advance appropriations for VA health care in fiscal year 2012.

AMVETS leaders will continue to follow the VA budget process as it moves through the Senate and on to the White House for the president’s signature. For updates, check back regularly with the blog for American Veteran, the national publication of AMVETS, at http://americanveteranmagazine.blogspot.com.

About AMVETS:
A leader since 1944 in preserving the freedoms secured by America’s armed forces, AMVETS provides support for veterans and the active military in procuring their earned entitlements, as well as community service and legislative reform that enhances the quality of life for this nation’s citizens and veterans alike. AMVETS is one of the largest congressionally-chartered veterans’ service organizations in the United States, and includes members from each branch of the military, including the National Guard and Reserves. To learn more visit www.amvets.org.