[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 42, Number 5 (Monday, February 6, 2006)]
[Page 142]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives Revising Budget 
Amendments for the Department of Veterans Affairs

 January 28, 2006

 Dear Mr. Speaker:

     My Administration is committed to ensuring that our Nation's 
veterans continue to receive timely and high-quality health care.
     On July 14, 2005, I submitted an FY 2006 budget amendment to the 
Congress of $1.977 billion to cover increased costs in the Department of 
Veterans Affairs medical care system. I did not designate the funds as 
an emergency requirement when I submitted the FY 2006 budget amendment. 
While I believe this funding should be categorized as part of the VA's 
base budget, it is critical that this funding be made available to meet 
veterans' needs. As a result, to provide the needed funds to veterans in 
a timely manner and consistent with the 2006 Military Quality of Life 
and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, Public Law 109-114, I hereby 
revise that request to designate $1.225 billion of the amount proposed 
in that amendment as an emergency requirement. I appreciate your 
cooperation in working with me to ensure the highest quality of care for 
our veterans.
     Additional information on this action is set forth in the enclosed 
letter from the Director of the Office of Management and Budget. The 
details of the FY 2006 amendment were included in the previous 
transmittal.
     Sincerely,
                                                George W. Bush

  Note:  This letter was released by the Office of the Press Secretary 
on January 30.