[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 133 (Tuesday, October 1, 2013)]
[House]
[Page H6064]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   UNINTERRUPTED PAY FOR THE MILITARY

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
Colorado (Mr. Lamborn) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. LAMBORN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to reassure our Nation's 
military members--both Active Duty and Reserve in Active Duty status 
and their families--your pay and benefits will continue uninterrupted 
during this partial government shutdown.
  Anticipating your needs, yesterday House Republicans introduced--and 
Members of both parties and both Chambers agreed--to pass this bill to 
ensure you will not face any economic hardship during this time of 
uncertainty in Washington. The President has signed this bill into law.
  According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, VA trauma counseling 
services and hotlines will remain open for business. Also, all VA 
medical facilities and clinics, including vet centers, will remain 
fully open and operational.
  Additionally, yesterday, I introduced a separate bill that expands on 
our commitment to our military and national defense. My bill would 
provide uninterrupted pay and benefits to Guard and Reserve members, 
Department of Defense civilians, and designated defense contractors.
  My bill would also provide the President with the ability to carry 
out other vital national security priorities, which could include 
funding for military operations or other national security priorities 
such as intelligence and homeland security.
  Our greatest duty as a Nation is to our men and women in uniform. We 
are grateful for your sacrifice, and we will do all we can to ensure 
you are treated with the respect you have earned and that you deserve.

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