I thank Chairman Culberson for yielding, and I congratulate him and Ranking Member Bishop on producing a fiscal year 2014 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill.
As the first bill of 12 FY14 appropriations bills to be marked up in subcommittee, I am pleased that this bill is an example of bipartisan collaboration that addresses the most urgent needs of our Nation's veterans, as well as the construction priorities across the Department of Defense. During this time of fiscal austerity, the subcommittee carefully went line-by-line, taking the difficult but responsible steps to trim excess spending wherever possible and rescind unobligated balances.
Specifically, the bill funds the construction of Department of Defense hospitals, clinics, schools, and family housing. The bill also protects the health and well-being of our veterans by providing medical care, job training programs, education benefits, and disability benefits. After serving our country with honor, it is imperative that we continue to provide these brave men and women with the services they need and deserve.
I urge the subcommittee to promptly report this bill to the full Committee. Thank you, and I yield back.