June 30, 2005

Media Contact: Jeff Schrade (202)224-9093

(Washington, DC) The U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee reiterated its position today that the Department of Veterans Affairs needs $1.5 billion to fill a spending gap for the Department of Veterans Affairs. In a unanimous vote, the appropriators voted to authorize the Senate to quickly take up a $1.5 billion emergency supplemental if the House approves such a measure.

That action came after the Bush Administration indicated earlier today that the agency needs $975 million.

"Clearly there is a disagreement here on the number, but it's also clear that we all want to do the right thing for veterans. We do not want to leave the Department of Veterans Affairs short of funds," said Sen. Larry Craig who serves on the Appropriations Committee and is Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs.

"Working with our colleagues in the House, I'm sure we can achieve that objective."

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