Mr. President, I wish to commend the Chairman and Ranking member for their efforts in coming forward with a bill that provides valuable funding for our veterans and key housing programs. However, I urge my colleagues to provide additional funding for Section 8 vouchers. In my State of Hawaii, there is a 20-month wait for public housing and a 44-month wait for section 8 vouchers. Without additional funding for these programs, Hawaii's residents will only see an increase in the waiting period for public housing and section 8 vouchers. We must ensure that adequate funding is provided for these important programs which benefits so many people. Lastly, I wish to also urge my colleagues to revisit the Community Builders program and provide HUD with the ability to continue this valuable program. In my state, this program has provided a valuable service to Hawaii's low-income families. Once again, I wish to commend the Chairman and Ranking member for making very tough decisions in crafting this legislation. I know that it was not easy and am pleased that the Committee sought additional funding for our nation's veterans healthcare system, but I hope that we also understand the need for affordable housing and revisit this issue in conference.