We must not turn our backs on those who are serving our country. That is one of many reasons why Congress should avoid full implementation of sequestration by passing a balanced plan that closes tax loopholes, trims entitlements, and slows future growth of spending.
I would like to thank Chairman Culberson and Ranking Member Bishop for holding this very important hearing on quality of life in the military, and I would like to extend a warm welcome to our distinguished military witnesses.
In recent months, members of Congress on both sides of the aisle warned of the consequences of sequestration, and beginning April 15th, 768,000 civilians working at the Department of Defense will begin to be furloughed, which will have a direct impact on military quality of life by reducing services in:
• Family Support Centers;
• Day Care Centers;
• Deployment Readiness Centers;
• Family Medical Services; and
• Counseling Services for sexual assault victims and suicide prevention.
Furthermore, 149 of 189 DoD schools had facilities with an overall condition rating of either poor or failing and required significant recapitalization efforts to eliminate space shortfalls and temporary facilities. Sequestration's $523 million dollar reduction to the Defense Wide account will only exacerbate this problem.
I am particularly concerned about the disproportionate effect sequestration will have on our veterans. Transition Assistance Services are crucial to help veterans adjust to civilian life and find employment after separating from service. It is imperative to support these programs to uphold our promise to those who have served our country so bravely.
I am also concerned that reductions in funding for mental health services for active-duty military personnel will have devastating and long-lasting impacts. PTSD, depression, and suicide are too common among our service members. Sequestration threatens our ability to care for the mental wellness of military personnel.
We must not turn our backs on those who are serving our country. That is one of many reasons why Congress should avoid full implementation of sequestration by passing a balanced plan that closes tax loopholes, trims entitlements, and slows future growth of spending.
Source: U.S. Department of HCA
