Opening Statement

Senator Daniel K. Akaka
Chairman
Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs

Aloha. Welcome to today's hearing of the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs. This is the second of three field hearings that I am chairing here in the State this week and next.

We held similar hearings at the start of 2006. Much has improved since that time, for which I am grateful, but it is important for the Committee to understand the remaining challenges.

Both the clinic and Vet Center on Maui are tremendously busy, and must be available to all of Maui's veterans and to veterans living on Lanai and Molokai as well. It is my view that both are understaffed and may need some staff enhancements. This is something that I will be exploring today.

I applaud the efforts of every VA employee on Maui - these men and women work hard to help the veterans who seek their assistance. There are many things that VA does well in Hawaii. However, there is always room for improvement. I want to hear about how we can give VA the tools to make a difference in the lives of Hawaii's veterans.

Back in Washington, we have worked hard to ensure that VA has the resources to provide the best possible care. The VA spending bill which the Senate will take up in early September includes $43 billion for VA, $3.6 billion more than was sought by President Bush. We are finally on track to adequate funding for VA mental health care, and care for those veterans with traumatic brain injuries.

Today, and over this week and next, I will examine health care and benefits in Hawaii. Given the State's unique features, VA must specifically tailor its strategies that are successful on the mainland, as they may not work as well here.

It is vitally important that you share your thoughts with us so that we know how to help VA help you and the rest of Hawaii's veterans. VA officials are here to listen to and respond to the concerns raised by the witnesses on the first two panels.

Finally, I note that there are many veterans here today who would like to testify. While we cannot accommodate everyone's request to speak, we do want to hear your views. The Committee is accepting written testimony which will be reviewed and made part of the record of today's hearing. If you have brought written testimony with you, please give it to Committee staff who are located in the back of the room. If you do not have written testimony but would like to submit something, Committee staff will assist you. In addition, the Committee staff is joined by VA staff who can respond to the questions, concerns, and comments that you raise.

Once again, mahalo to all who are in attendance today. I look forward to hearing from today's witnesses.