Bilirakis Addresses VA Budget Proposal for FY 2017
The Veterans' Affairs Committee today reviewed the Department of Veterans' Affairs Budget request for Fiscal Year 2017. Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Vice Chair of the Committee, questioned Secretary McDonald on the budget priorities and requests.
"The VA consistently receives funding increases throughout the years and yet many glaring issues persist," said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. "While we want to ensure appropriate funding levels, we must work to address the problems within the VA – not by throwing money at the problem, but by meaningful reforms and changes."
Congressman Biliriakis questioned the panel on the various mental health programs available to our Veterans and whether or not the VA is able to measure success of their programs.
"In order to justify additional funding, we must ensure the current programs provided to our Veterans are effective," Bilirakis added, "There must be mechanisms in place to meet the diverse needs of our Veterans and provide appropriate levels of support. As I've said before, one size does not fit all, especially in regards to mental health. We have an obligation to ensure that our specialized programs and alternative treatments are making a difference in the lives of our heroes."
Learn more about this hearing here.