Duval Times

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Thursday, U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05) released a statement regarding the markup and passage of the Fiscal Year 2025 Military Construction (MILCON) and Veterans Affairs (VA) Appropriations bill by the House Appropriations Committee.

“This year’s Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill provides the Department of Defense with funding to upgrade barracks for our troops, improve U.S. force posture in the Indo-Pacific with infrastructure investments, and build child development centers for our military families," said Rutherford. "Additionally, it fully funds veterans’ health care programs and supports American values and principles."

Rutherford highlighted specific provisions within the bill: "The bill prohibits taxpayer dollars from being used for abortions, protects Second Amendment rights for veterans, prohibits illegal aliens from making VA medical care claims, and prohibits the use of funds to promote or advance critical race theory or President Biden’s diversity, equity, and inclusion executive orders."

He further emphasized local benefits: “Not only does this bill bolster our national security and honor our commitment to our veterans, but this year’s bill also brings over $20 million to Northeast Florida through Community Project Funding." This includes funding for planning and design of an additional child development center at Naval Air Station Jacksonville and a waterfront emergency power solution at Naval Station Mayport.

“These wins for our local military community strengthen readiness and support our military families," added Rutherford. "I am proud to report this year’s Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill out of committee and hope to see strong support for the bill next month on the House Floor.”

For more details on the House Appropriations Committee’s bill summary, please visit their official website.

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