Boxer Measures to Help Veterans, California National Guard Move Forward

Washington, DC– The U.S. Senate today passed the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill that includes funding requested by U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA).

The bill includes an amendment written by Senator Boxer to give the Department of Veterans Affairs $1 million to expand its education loan repayment program for mental health care providers.

Senator Boxer said, “Our veterans risked their lives for us, and they deserve the best health care we can provide – including the best mental health care. This funding will help the VA recruit the most talented mental health care providers to serve our veterans.”

The bill also includes $9.9 million to replace the 144^th Squadron’s current operations facilities at Fresno-Yosemite International Air National Guard Base. The squadron currently operates across several outdated facilities that are not sufficient for modern day operations.

Senator Boxer said, “I am so pleased the Senate passed this bill to help the California National Guard perform its crucial duties.”

The facility will ultimately be used to house F-15C “Eagle” aircraft squadron operations. F-15Cs are expected to arrive at the base in 2012 to replace the aging F-16C fleet. Boxer has strongly advocated for the stationing of F-15C aircraft at Fresno. The 144^th Fighter Wing provides air defense for California from Oregon to the Mexican border and is vital to the nation’s security.

The bill is now in conference where differences between House and Senate versions of this legislation will be reconciled.

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