Peoria Standard

Today, Congressman Darin LaHood of Illinois' 16th Congressional District voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill. The legislation aims to fully fund veterans' benefits and VA programs while enhancing national security.

"We can never fully repay our veterans and their families for their incredible sacrifice, but what Congress can do is ensure that those who serve our country have the resources they need to provide for themselves and their families," said Rep. LaHood. "We owe our current and future veterans an enormous debt of gratitude. In Congress, I am deeply committed to honoring the service and sacrifice of our nation’s heroes by advocating for policies to ensure they receive benefits, healthcare, and resources they rightfully deserve. Illinois’ 16th Congressional District is home to over 38,000 veterans, and I am honored to work on their behalf."

The bill supports veterans by fully funding health care programs, benefits, and VA initiatives. It also addresses veteran homelessness through investment in the Bridging Rental Assistance for Veteran Empowerment Program. Additionally, it maintains funding levels for research, mental health programs, and other essential services relied upon by veterans.

For national security enhancement, the bill allocates significant funding for military construction projects. This includes continued investment in the Indo-Pacific region's infrastructure necessary for supporting U.S. advanced weapons systems. Furthermore, it prohibits the Department of Veterans Affairs from purchasing resources directly or indirectly through the Chinese Communist Party.