Antelope Valley Today

Congressman Mike Garcia’s Veterans Benefits Continuity and Accountability Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2024 has passed the House unanimously, addressing a $2.883 billion budget shortfall at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The legislation aims to prevent a disruption in benefits payments scheduled for October 1st, which would have affected 7 million veterans.

"My district is home to one of the largest veteran populations in the country. These men and women answered our nation’s call to serve, not for glory, but out of a deep belief in this country," said Rep. Garcia. "But right now, that trust is being tested because of the VA’s inability to properly manage its budget. Millions of veterans were about to lose their benefits, and that’s unacceptable. This bill steps in to prevent that disaster while demanding accountability from the VA."

The bill includes oversight measures requiring the VA to open its financial records to Congress and calls for an independent investigation by the VA Inspector General into how this shortfall occurred.

"We’re not just throwing money at the problem. This bill includes critical oversight measures to ensure that every dollar is spent appropriately, and we’re going to get answers about how the VA allowed this to happen in the first place," said Rep. Garcia. "Our veterans deserve better than bureaucratic failures, and we owe it to them to fix this broken system."

With millions of veterans relying on timely payments for medical care, GI Bill benefits, and more, the passage of this bill is crucial in preventing a lapse in benefits. Rep. Garcia's legislation ensures veterans won’t be left behind and puts pressure on the VA to address its internal management issues.