Banks Supports Funding For National Security and Veterans

Congressman Jim Banks (IN-03) today released the following statement after voting for the Conference Report to Accompany H.R. 5895 - Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act:

“This appropriations package supports a strong national security strategy. With competition among top-tier national powers continuing to grow, this boost to the Department of Energy's nuclear deterrence operations is vital in today’s strategic environment.

“The legislation also supports our nation’s heroes who too often cannot access the care and services they’ve earned. I’m proud that language I authored with Senator Young to improve the effectiveness of the veterans’ crisis line is included in the package, as well as funding to modernize the VA’s electronic health record system. This package is a huge win for our veterans.”

The legislative package includes language authored by Congressman Banks and Senator Todd Young (R-IN) that directs the Department of Veterans Affairs to study the effectiveness of the Veterans Crisis Line in preventing veteran suicide. More about the legislation is available here.

The House passed the bill 377 to 20. It passed the Senate last night and now heads to President Trump’s desk to be signed into law.

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