WASHINGTON, DC - Montana’s Congressman, Denny Rehberg, and his colleagues on the Military Quality of Life Appropriations Subcommittee, voted to approve almost $146 million in funding for Malmstrom Air Force at a subcommittee meeting today. Malmstrom’s funding, which will be used for new housing and a community center, comes as part of the Military Quality of Life bill approved by the Subcommittee.
“There’s no question that the brave men and women serving at Malmstrom deserve the best when it comes to good housing,” Rehberg said. “Even in a tight budget environment, Malmstrom’s value is being recognized in Congress. This year’s total military construction funding for the base is more than twice the amount appropriated in 2005.”
Rehberg’s projects approved by the Subcommittee include $5.7 million for a new community center at Malmstrom and $140.2 million for almost 500 new housing units on the base. Construction on the projects could begin as soon as next year.
“Malmstrom is one of the most important military installations in the U.S. and I’m glad my colleagues are starting to recognize that,” added Rehberg. “Since coming to Congress, I’ve worked hand-in-hand with Sen. Burns to bolster Malmstrom on the Air Force priority list.
“This funding is another step in the right direction. As we improve Malmstrom’s facilities, the stronger the case becomes for a new mission for the base.”
The $136.1 billion bill includes the following highlights:
· $2.8 billion for specialty mental health care for veterans.
· $412 million in funding for prosthetic research.
· $25 million added to the Defense Health Program to integrate counseling and mental health services into the daily lives of our troops.