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For Immediate Release:                                                                          April 26, 2005

Veterans Medical Care

Since Republicans took control of Congress in 1995, we have made great strides in improving benefits for our nation's 25 million veterans.

The Republican Congress expanded eligibility for medical care in 1996 and 1999. As a result, the number of veterans using VA medical care has increased from 2.5 million in 1995, to 4.8 million today.

Since 1995, total spending on veterans medical care has increased from $16.2 billion to $29.9 billion this year - an increase of 84.6%.

This budget assumes $31.7 billion in discretionary spending for veteran's benefits and services, with almost all of that funding to be spent on veterans medical care. This funding level is $297 million above the President's request.

Further, this budget does not assume the President's proposal to establish a new $250 user fee for Priority Level 7 and 8 veterans, or to increase the prescription drug co-payments for Priority 7 and 8 veterans from $7 to $15.

With this budget, we have continued our commitment to those who have served their country with pride, valor, and dignity.

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