House Passes Emergency Bill to Address $3 Billion VA Budget Shortfall

Emergency Funding for Veterans Benefits

The House on Tuesday passed an emergency bill to address a roughly $3 billion budget shortfall facing the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). As officials warn that millions of veterans' benefits are at risk in the coming weeks, this legislation aims to prevent disruptions in essential services.

Bipartisan Support and Urgency

The bill, which received bipartisan support on a voice vote, now heads to the Senate for prompt approval. Rep. Mike Garcia (R-Calif.), a member of the House Appropriations Committee, emphasized the need for accountability to ensure every dollar is spent effectively to assist veterans.

• $2.9 billion in additional funding aimed at enhancing Veterans Benefits Administration.
• Funds allocated for compensation and pensions and readjustment benefits.

Pact Act Impacting Budget

Officials indicate that the PACT Act, a landmark law passed in 2022, is a major contributor to the budget shortfall. The increased enrollment in VA health care has led to heightened demand for benefits.

Legislative Progress

This piece of legislation mandates comprehensive reporting from the VA secretary about budget assumptions and forecasting. Additionally, an inspector general review is required to analyze the causes behind the budget shortfall.

As urgency builds with a looming deadline for additional funding by Sept. 20, both parties in the Senate have expressed the need for swift action to aid our veterans.