[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 52 (Tuesday, April 1, 2003)]
[House]
[Page H2521]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   OPPOSING BUDGET CUTS FOR VETERANS

  (Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to 
call attention to the actions taken by the Republicans in this House to 
drastically cut the funding for veterans programs.
  While thousands of brave men and women are fighting for our country 
and risking their lives every single day, the House majority party 
voted for the GOP budget resolution which would cut veterans programs 
by $28.8 billion. This cut in programs includes money for health care, 
for disability compensation, pensions, and other benefits. The Disabled 
American Veterans, the Paralyzed Veterans of America, and the American 
Legion have all issued statements opposing this budget.
  We cannot in good conscience commit men and women to defend this 
Nation while at the same time reducing the benefits they are entitled 
to and deserve, because after all, what message, what message does this 
send to those that have and those that are serving our country?
  I am appalled at the actions of the Republican House. While brave men 
and women are defending our freedom, we must defend their right to 
receive their benefits.

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