Hensarling Votes To Make America Secure

Statement

Congressman Jeb Hensarling (TX-5) released the following statements after voting in favor of legislation to bolster military preparedness, enhance care for our veterans, unlock energy potential, maintain and improve upon the strength of our armed services, and fund President Trump's request for a border wall:

Defense Appropriations Bill:

"A renewed sense of commitment to our national security reassures the American people and our allies that we are prepared to combat threats to our safety," said Hensarling. "Whether it is thwarting North Korea and Iran's threat of nuclear activity, destroying radical Islamic terrorists, or standing up to bad actors like Russia -- our armed forces are to be fully prepared at all times. I applaud actions taken by the House today to maintain our military superiority."

Among many other priorities, the FY 2018 Defense Appropriations Bill:

Ensures key military readiness programs are properly funded and maintained
Provides our armed forces with necessary equipment and weaponry
Supports critical partnerships with allies such as Israel
Fully funds authorized the largest military pay increase in eight years
Enhances medical care and provides full benefits for our heroes and their families
MILCON/VA Appropriations Bill:

"This increase in funding is the highest level of funding in history for the Department of Veterans Affairs. When it comes to taking care of the people who have served this country, we must do everything we can to ensure we meet their medical needs. In addition to providing more for mental health care services and suicide prevention, this supplement will reduce the backlog of VA disability claims," said Hensarling. "Funding for critical military infrastructure is boosted by 25%. Through this legislation, military families and medical facilities are receiving greater support. Our service women and men are finally able to receive the backing they so richly deserve."

Energy and Water Appropriations Bill:

"In a time when we face a multitude of nuclear threats, it is critical to maintain the Department of Energy's nuclear weapons security programs," said Hensarling. "On top of that, unlocking our full energy potential is key to our country's economic growth. This legislation implements much-needed cuts to programs that limit our ability to achieve energy independence and finally makes way for the onerous Waters of the U.S. rule (WOTUS) to be overturned."

President Trump's request for a border wall:

"As Texans know very well, our southern border is not secure," Hensarling said. "For too long, President Obama ignored the immigration laws of the United States. Texans and the American people know it is past time to take greater measures to ensure border security. Finally, we have a president that recognizes the undeniable and imminent threat to our national security and economic interests due to an unsecure border. Whether it is by way of policy changes, building a wall, fencing, or implementation of enhanced technology, it is critical to work towards stopping illegal immigration immediately."

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