Polk Times

Rep. Scott Franklin (FL-18) announced that several of his initiatives were approved by the House Appropriations Committee during its markup of the FY25 House Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies budget bill. The measure was approved by the Committee with a vote of 34 to 25.

“Today the Appropriations Committee passed a strong funding bill that prioritizes our veterans and servicemembers while responsibly spending American tax dollars,” Rep. Franklin said. “I am pleased it includes many conservative wins and several of my initiatives to improve transparency and care at the VA.”

The following Franklin initiatives were included in the bill:

- **Timeliness of Care at VA Facilities**: Language inspired by Rep. Franklin’s January 2024 bill, the SCHEDULES Act, is included, directing the VA to report to Congress on average waiting periods for veterans seeking care at VA hospitals. This report should highlight disparities and identify problem areas.

- **Disciplinary Action at the VA**: Rep. Franklin’s Personnel Integrity in Veterans Affairs Act was included, directing the VA to continue investigations against employees credibly accused of misconduct and to notate investigations in the permanent records of resigning or retiring employees.

- **Improving Compensation & Pension Exam Standards**: Rep. Franklin prioritized an initiative directing the VA to establish standard timelines and quality performance metrics for contracted and Veterans Health Administration medical providers carrying out disability exams.

- **Blocking Purchase of Chinese Tech**: Rep. Franklin worked to secure section 421 in the bill, preventing VA officials from buying computers, software, or hardware from any company that “contributes to the defense industry” of China.

- **Repairing Damaged Florida Military Hangar B3260 Initiative**: In 2020, Hurricane Sally caused millions in damage to facilities at Naval Air Station Pensacola, including the hangar used by the world-famous Blue Angels. This measure directs the Secretary of the Navy to report to Congress on the status of repairs and identify needed investments.

The bill also:

- Fully funds veterans’ health care programs.

- Fully funds veterans’ benefits and VA programs.

- Provides robust funding for projects in Guam and increases resources for INDOPACOM in support of Indo-Pacific region efforts.

- Prohibits taxpayer dollars from being used for abortion.

- Protects Second Amendment rights of veterans by preventing information sharing with FBI without a judge’s consent.

- Prohibits processing medical care claims for illegal aliens through VA funds.

- Prohibits use of funds to promote or advance critical race theory.

- Blocks implementation and enforcement of Biden Administration’s executive orders on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

- Blocks VA funds for hormone therapies related to gender-affirming care.

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