The House of Representatives has passed the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for 2026. The bill was approved with a vote of 218 to 206.
John Carter, Chairman of the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Subcommittee, expressed his satisfaction with the passage. He stated, “I’m proud that the House has passed the first FY26 appropriations bill—my Military Construction and Veterans Affairs bill—which reflects House Republicans’ commitment to taking care of our servicemembers, veterans, and their families.” He highlighted investments in infrastructure such as barracks and child development centers and emphasized funding for veterans' health care focusing on mental health services and housing programs.
Chairman Tom Cole also commented on the bill's passage: “Today’s passage puts service and strength first—supporting U.S. veterans, military families, and base readiness." He noted that the bill fully funds veteran health care and benefits under President Trump's administration while improving quality of life through housing and childcare resources.
The legislation aims to support various initiatives including full funding for veterans' health care programs, benefits, research, mental health programs, combating veteran homelessness through a new program called Bridging Rental Assistance for Veteran Empowerment. It also includes measures supporting President Trump's policies related to gun rights for veterans and prohibiting certain VA activities without judicial consent.
Additionally, it seeks to bolster national security by providing robust funding for military construction in strategic regions like Indo-Pacific. The act maintains restrictions on closing Naval Station Guantanamo Bay or using funds for detainee facilities within U.S. borders. It also prohibits purchasing resources from China directly or indirectly by the VA.
