Washington, D.C. - {Congressman Kevin Brady (R-The Woodlands) voted today to secure vital funds for American troops serving in Afghanistan and Iraq, the two central fronts in the War on Terror.  The Supplemental Appropriations Act also fulfills America's commitment to the Iraqi people to provide the country with a functioning infrastructure.  The bill passed today, 303 to 125.

 

"The overriding mission in Iraq has always been clear:  to rid the world of a brutal dictator who posed an extremely dangerous threat to the United States and the rest of the world.  The money allocated today will move Iraq closer toward self-government.  A goal, that once met, secures a volatile region and means our brave service men and women are one day closer to coming home." said Brady. 

 

Since  major conflict ended in Iraq in May, U.S. forces have been instrumental in restoring basic civil services.  For example, recent figures show electricity production has surpassed prewar levels, power plants and water-treatment facilities are being repaired, and sewer and water lines have been fixed.  Oil production is presently ranging from 1.8 million to 2 million barrels a day, close to prewar levels.  As heartening, more than 1,500 schools have been renovated and more than 500 clinics and hospitals have been rehabilitated and restocked with medicines.   

 

The funds approved by Congress today will ensure this important work continues and that the people of Iraq are never subjected to the whims of a madman who endangers not only the lives of his people, but jeopardizes the safety of the globe by harboring and financing terrorists.  . 
     
Money approved today will also go toward the continued reconstruction effort in Afghanistan.  Additionally, the funds approved today will for to purchase body armor, provide travel assistance for military families, and increase hazard pay and family separation allowances through September 30, 2004.