The House Appropriations Committee unanimously approved legislation covering military construction and Veterans Affairs for the 2027 Fiscal Year, officials said Tuesday.
The legislation, The Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, includes $157 billion toward investments in the military infrastructure, an increase of $4 billion above last year’s level. The bill also includes $323.9 billion for mandatory programs. Included in the legislation is fully funding the veterans’ health care programs, fully funding veterans’ benefits, maintaining funding for research, mental health programs and other programs veterans rely on and $2 billion in capital improvements in VA medical facilities and four national cemeteries.
The bill also prevents the VA from sending information to the FBI about veterans without a judge’s consent, fully funds the Community Care account to empower veterans to seek specialty care, and supports effort to improve mental health and suicide prevention among veterans.
“This legislation upholds our sacred obligation to the men and women who have served the United States of America and defended our freedoms across the globe,” U.S. Rep. John Carter (R-TX), Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Chairman, said. “The bill ensures that our veterans receive the care and benefits they have earned, while making critical investments in military infrastructure, housing, and childcare to support our servicemembers and their families… At a time when threats around the world are multiplying, this bill strengthens our military readiness and the quality of life for those who have served and those currently serving.”
Officials said the bill also bolsters national security and border protection through robust funding for military construction and prohibitions on closing Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and prohibiting the VA from purchasing resources directly or indirectly from China.
“The uniform represents a promise to America – and this bill ensures we keep ours in return,” U.S. Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK), House Appropriations Chair, said. “It reflects a fundamental obligation we carry as a nation: to stand behind those who have worn it, those who serve today, and the families who back them every step of the way. From fully funding veteran health care and upholding mental health services – to investing in the infrastructure and quality-of-life needs our forces rely on to remain mission-ready – this bill follows through on that commitment. Care, capability, and construction come together in this measure to support those who serve – past and present – and reinforce our base posture.”