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July 25, 2003—Disappointed with veterans funding falling nearly $2 billion below the level recommended by the House three months ago, Congressman Franks felt his only principled alternative was to vote “no” on HR 2861, the Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2004. However, the legislation passed with a vote of 316-109.
“I am deeply disturbed in what I believe was a broken promise in the funding levels for the medical care of our veterans,” Franks said. “Congress made a promise earlier this year to provide funds at a certain level and the bill that passed today fails to uphold that promise.”
“The first and primary purpose of the federal government is the protection of its citizens. That includes maintaining an unwavering commitment to the care of our military personnel. The veterans of this nation have served valiantly to protect our freedom. It is our utmost responsibility to ensure that those who have served their country with pride, valor, and dignity receive the best of America's appreciation. That means keeping our promises to them in these major appropriations bills.” |
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