Mack: House Authorizes $131 Million for Veterans' Outpatient Clinic in Lee County

Press Release

Congressman Connie Mack (FL-14) praised passage of legislation in the House of Representatives this afternoon that will authorize $131 million for the construction of the new VA outpatient clinic in Cape Coral. The House previously passed this authorization in May; however, legislation was re-introduced after additional provisions to extend the VA's authority on several benefits were included. Originally, federal funding for the new facility was authorized at $65 million in 2004.

Mack said:

"Although the House had to pass this important funding authorization again, I'm very pleased that the authorization for the new outpatient clinic in Cape Coral remains $131 million. This is a critical project for Southwest Florida. The new 200,000 square-foot clinic will help to meet the needs of our region's growing veterans population. It is a fitting tribute to the tens of thousands of veterans in Southwest Florida who courageously served our country, and I urge the Senate to pass this bill without delay so we can continue working to complete this vital project."

In addition, yesterday, the House also overwhelmingly passed a cost-of-living increase for service-connected disabled veterans, as well as dependent spouses and children of deceased veterans. This year's cost-of-living increase is estimated to be 2.8 percent.

Both bills now await action by the Senate.

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