Peoria Standard

Darin LaHood, representative of Illinois' 16th Congressional District, said that the country can never fully repay veterans and their families for their sacrifices. However, he voted on a bill to fully fund health care, benefits, and other vital programs at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

"We can never fully repay our veterans and their families for their sacrifice to our country, but what we can do is ensure they receive the resources they have earned and deserve," said LaHood, U.S. Representative of Illinois's 16th congressional district (R), according to Facebook. "I voted to fully fund VA health care, benefits, and other vital programs. We owe our veterans an enormous debt of gratitude."

The bill referred to by Representative LaHood is House Resolution 3944, known as the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. It includes funding for various departments such as the Veterans Benefits Administration and the Veterans Health Administration. The bill appropriates $97.9 million for veterans insurance and $500,000 for housing benefits through direct loans. Additionally, it allocates $59.9 billion—plus reimbursements as of October 1, 2026—for medical services through the Veterans Health Administration. An additional $3 billion is designated for medical community care through September 30, 2027. To maintain and operate hospitals and other facilities, the bill provides $11.7 billion.

Screenshot of U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood's June 25 Facebook post | U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood's Facebook page

According to LaHood in a press release: "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." He noted that Illinois’ 16th Congressional District is home to over 38,000 veterans.

The House passed the measure by a vote of 218-206, according to a news release from the Appropriations Committee. Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) said in the news release: "Today’s passage puts service and strength first—supporting U.S. veterans, military families, and base readiness." Cole added that "the FY26 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs bill fully funds veteran health care and benefits," marking enhanced investment under President Trump.

Congressman Darin LaHood has represented Illinois since 2015. Initially serving in the 18th Congressional District until redistricting shifted him to represent the 16th District. His political career includes four years in the state senate from 2011-2015. He also served as a state and federal prosecutor for more than nine years with experience at the US Department of Justice as an Assistant US Attorney in Las Vegas, Nevada. LaHood holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Loras College and a Juris Doctor from the University of Illinois-Chicago John Marshall Law School.