WASHINGTON, June 24, 2009—Last night, the House voted for a key rule change that may allow Congress to authorize appropriations for VA health care one year in advance. The House Appropriations Committee also approved the first advanced budget for the VA, FY2011, along with the FY2010 budget.

"These are two major steps in the right direction for Congress and the VA, and a major victory for the veterans' community," said AMVETS National Legislative Director Ray Kelley. "Sufficient, timely and predictable funding for VA health care will ensure that our veterans receive the care they were promised and the care they have earned."

For 19 of the last 22 years, Congress has failed to deliver the VA budget on time, raising concerns for AMVETS over the timely delivery of sufficient health care for veterans who rely on the VA system. AMVETS, along with many of the nation's other leading veterans’ organizations, has been working to revise the funding model for the VA for decades.

Critics of the advanced appropriations model have raised concerns over the accuracy of estimates and the impact on VA programs. AMVETS remains confident that proper oversight will ensure that the advance model works.

“AMVETS feels it is vitally important for the VA to have the resources with which to provide care and critical services rather than to submit a new proposal each year,” said Kelley. “While oversight and accuracy are legitimate concerns, corollaries exist to help predict the needs of the VA, and Congress can always intervene if something needs to change in advance of the budget’s delivery each fiscal year.”

Kelley went on to say that advanced appropriations will only enhance VA services, allowing the VA to hire personnel and implement new programs in an efficient manner. 

The Obama Administration has indicated that it will support advanced appropriations for the VA and the Senate is expected to take similar action in the coming weeks. AMVETS will remain prominent on Capitol Hill, ensuring that advanced appropriations for VA health care becomes a reality.

About AMVETS:    
A leader since 1944 in preserving the freedoms secured by America’s armed forces, AMVETS provides support for veterans and the active military in procuring their earned entitlements, as well as community service and legislative reform that enhances the quality of life for this nation’s citizens and veterans alike. AMVETS is one of the largest congressionally-chartered veterans’ service organizations in the United States, and includes members from each branch of the military, including the National Guard and Reserves. To learn more visit www.amvets.org.