Graves Votes to Support America's Veterans, Reduce VA Backlog

Press Release

Last evening, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 421-4 to approve the FY 2014 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs appropriations bill (H.R. 2216). Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) voted in favor of the bill, which provides next year's funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and various military construction projects.

"I'm committed to making sure that we take care of those at home who have protected and fought for our freedom abroad," said Congressman Graves. "It's a commitment we made and a commitment we must keep."

Key provisions in the bill target the disability claims processing backlog at the VA. The bill includes funding for a paperless claims process system, as well as digital scanning of health records, and contains strict reporting requirements to track the progress regional offices make in reducing the backlog.

"We must continue to invest in the health of our veterans, and reducing the disability claims backlog is a critical part of that," Graves continued. "Veterans deserve the services they're entitled to in a timely manner. The bill also provides for medical treatment such as mental health care, suicide prevention, and rural health initiatives."

On the military construction side, the legislation includes funds that help maintain a high quality of life among those currently serving, including funding for education, medical, and Guard/Reserve facilities, as well as family housing.

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