For Immediate Release: November 7, 2007

Sutton: Congress Reaffirms Support for Veterans

House Passes Spending Bill to Provide for Veterans Affairs

Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Betty Sutton today released the following statement on the House's passage of a major appropriations bill that will provide full funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs:

"This weekend, our nation will come together to recognize and remember the contributions and sacrifices of our veterans. But it is not enough to show our support only on Veterans Day; we must strive to do so every day, not only with spoken promises, but with our actions.

"Today, the actions of Congress reaffirmed our support for the men and women who have chosen to serve their country in uniform. For the first time in its 77-year history, the Department of Veterans Affairs will be fully funded. That means the VA will have the funds it needs for additional claims processors, hospitals and clinics, and research on conditions such as Traumatic Brain Injury and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. By making certain the VA has the resources it needs, we are honoring the promises made to all our veterans.

"This country has a moral obligation to give back to our veterans, and Congress must never stop working to fulfill that responsibility. I'm proud of the work we've done for veterans, and for what we've accomplished here tonight."

Contact: Zach Ragbourn at 202-225-3401