The Senate Committee on Appropriations has approved the Fiscal Year 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Act. This legislation provides support for U.S. military forces’ housing, infrastructure, and facilities, alongside increased funding for veterans’ healthcare and benefits.
The bill was passed with a vote of 26-3, allocating $153.5 billion in discretionary funding. This includes $19.8 billion for defense funding and $133.6 billion for nondefense purposes.
“The investments this legislation makes in critical Department of Defense infrastructure will help to strengthen our national security, improve our military’s readiness and safety, and reduce maintenance costs. The bill also supports much-needed funding to improve medical care and housing for our nation’s veterans,” stated Senator Collins, Chair of the Appropriations Committee.
Senator John Boozman, Chair of the MilCon-VA Appropriations Subcommittee remarked, “This bipartisan bill delivers critical investments to strengthen America’s defense infrastructure and capabilities… Further, it is a strong reflection of our commitment to uphold the promises made to those who have worn our nation’s uniform by improving access to mental health care and suicide prevention services…”
Highlights of the bill include:
– Military Construction: $19.8 billion allocated for over 280 projects globally aimed at enhancing resilience and warfighter readiness. Within this amount, $1.9 billion is designated for improving housing for servicemembers.
– Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): Allocated $133.3 billion.
– Guantanamo Bay: Provisions preventing realignment or closure of the Naval Station are retained.
– Chinese IT Ban: A provision prohibits VA from purchasing technology equipment manufactured by certain Chinese companies.
