Columbia News

Today, Congressman Mark Alford, Vice Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies, expressed his approval following the U.S. House of Representatives' passage of H.R. 3944. This bill pertains to the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2026.

Alford stated: “The House took the first of twelve steps to restore strong, responsible governance under the Golden Age of the Trump Administration.” He emphasized that this legislation is beneficial for veterans, service members, and their families. “Despite constant gaslighting by the left," he continued, "Republicans are fully funding veterans’ healthcare, benefits, and programs. We are also expanding funding for community care and improving the Veterans Crisis Line." Alford concluded with pride in supporting a bill that delivers for veterans.

H.R. 3944 aims to support veterans by ensuring full funding for healthcare programs and benefits while backing efforts to combat veteran homelessness through new initiatives like Bridging Rental Assistance for Veteran Empowerment. It maintains existing funding levels for research and mental health programs relied upon by veterans.

Additionally, H.R. 3944 aligns with certain policies from President Trump's administration by protecting Second Amendment rights related to veterans and adhering to executive orders concerning DEI funds and gender-affirming care restrictions at VA facilities.

In terms of national security enhancements included in H.R. 3944, it allocates substantial resources toward military construction projects vital for U.S. defense capabilities in regions such as Indo-Pacific while maintaining prohibitions on closing Naval Station Guantanamo Bay or using funds domestically related detainee facilities construction.