WASHINGTON, DC -- U.S. Rep. Harold "Hal" Rogers (KY-05) continues to stand with veterans and military service members through this legislative work on Capitol Hill. As a senior appropriator, Congressman Rogers is diligently working on the nation's twelve federal funding bills for fiscal year 2025. On Wednesday, the House passed the first of those appropriations bills by prioritizing funding for Military Construction and Veterans Affairs.

The bill fully funds veterans' benefits and health care programs, while also supporting current service members and their families. 

"This federal funding bill honors our commitment to the men and women who have served and protected this great nation. It also strengthens national security with critical improvements at our bases, including Fort Campbell and Fort Knox in Kentucky," said Congressman Rogers, Dean of the House. "I am proud to see advancements in the electronic health record management system, ensuring that critical healthcare isn't delayed by paperwork and poor communication. This bill also focuses on rural health, including transportation for veterans' medical appointments. It also continues vital opioid treatment and prevention for our veterans across the country." 

Robust funding is provided for American defenses in the Indo-Pacific region, including investments in Guam. Once again, this bill prohibits the closure of Guantanamo Bay, and the use of federal funding to build facilities for detainees on U.S. soil. 

It also supports American values by protecting 2nd Amendment rights of veterans, prohibits taxpayer dollars from being used for abortions, and prohibits the VA from processing medical care claims for illegal aliens. 

A summary of the bill, before adoption of amendments, is available here.

Bill text, before adoption of amendments, is available here.

For more information about Congressman Rogers' work in Washington and at home in Kentucky, visit halrogers.house.gov and follow him on social media.