Today, the House Appropriations Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Subcommittee convened to review its Fiscal Year 2026 bill. The Subcommittee approved the measure.
Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Subcommittee Chairman John Carter stated, "I am pleased to present the Fiscal Year 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies appropriations bill today. I know the process to this point has been a little non-traditional, but it is important that we do our jobs as appropriators and get moving on this critical legislation." He emphasized the bill's provisions for over $134 billion in non-defense discretionary funding and $300 billion in mandatory funding for veterans' obligations. Carter noted that the bill addresses issues such as homelessness and mental health services for veterans.
The bill also allocates nearly $18 billion for infrastructure investments essential for servicemembers. "The Committee will continue to prioritize INDOPACOM and quality of life investments in Fiscal Year 2026," Carter added.
Chairman Tom Cole remarked on the significance of the appropriations bill: "This morning’s first measure is the first appropriations bill we will consider for Fiscal Year 2026. I echo my good friend Judge Carter’s comments about this bill." Cole highlighted that the funding supports military bases and improves housing for troops and their families while ensuring healthcare benefits for veterans are fully funded.
Cole outlined three main objectives: supporting veterans, honoring troops and their families, and investing in military bases. "We are demonstrating America’s obligations to our heroes, defense, and national security effectively and responsibly," he concluded.
Further details including full remarks from both chairmen are available through provided links.
