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News from Rep. Stephanie Herseth Sandlin
For Immediate Release
Contact: Betsy Hart, 202-226-8555

**Photo Release**

HERSETH SANDLIN QUESTIONS NEW SECRETARY OF THE VA

Raises Concerns about Veterans returning from OEF and OIF, Rural and Disabled Veterans, Housing

Washington, DC February 7, 2008-Today, the House Veterans' Affairs Committee held a hearing with the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs, James Peake, to review the Department of Veterans Affairs Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2009. During the hearing, Rep. Herseth Sandlin raised concerns that the Department's proposed budget fails to provide adequate resources to care for both veterans of previous wars and those veterans returning home from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. In particular, Rep. Herseth Sandlin addressed concerns related to rural veterans, long-term care, veterans' housing, and programs for disabled veterans.

Rep. Herseth Sandlin said, "While I appreciate that the Administration recommended an increase for the VA for Fiscal Year 2009, I do not believe the proposed budget is sufficient to meet the needs of our nation's veterans. In addition, I am disappointed that the budget again proposes annual enrollment fees and increasing pharmacy copayment. As a member of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, I look forward to working with Secretary Peake and my colleagues to address the shortfalls in the VA's budget request to ensure our veterans receive the resources they have earned and deserve."

For a photo of Rep. Herseth Sandlin questioning Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs, James Peake, click here.

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