September 29, 2016

Acting Ranking Member Takano Issues Statement After President Signs Extension of Vital Veterans’ Programs, West Los Angeles Leasing Act

Washington, D.C. – Today, Acting Ranking Member Mark Takano released the following statement after President Obama signed into law the Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act of 2016 and the West Los Angeles Leasing Act of 2016.

“In signing these two pieces of legislation into law, President Obama has ensured that the programs and services veterans rely on every day will continue without interruption, and that the long struggle over the West Los Angeles VA campus is finally resolved. I applaud my colleagues in the House and Senate for producing two bipartisan bills that will have a direct and positive impact on veterans in my district, in California, and across the country.

“As a former public school teacher, I’m particularly pleased that we provided relief for student veterans who are enrolled at a school that loses its accreditation. Starting today, the Department of Veterans Affairs has the legal authority to provide these students the flexibility they need to continue their education without an immediate disruption in their tuition or housing benefits. This is a vital step for the more than 30,000 student veterans at risk for having their benefits cut off next month.

“Must-pass legislation is too often beset by partisanship and poison pills. The approach taken in the House and Senate to advance clean legislation demonstrates a shared understanding that caring for our veterans is above politics. I look forward to continuing our bipartisan work on behalf of those who served.”

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