Cole Floor Remarks on H.R. 3944, Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume and I thank my good friend Judge Carter for yielding me time.

I rise today in support of this important piece of legislation.

Prioritizing veterans and troops says everything about our values—and that’s exactly what this first FY26 bill does.

The Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act is a testament to caring for those who’ve selflessly worn America’s uniform, their families, and the defenders who follow their path of service. 

We meet this mission not only in words of gratitude, but in policies that support them. 

This legislation provides full funding for health care and benefits for our nation’s veterans and implements an advance for the Toxic Exposure Fund. This marks enhanced investment under President Trump, which is also reflected in critical mental health initiatives and work to fight homelessness. 

It devotes funding to improve quality-of-life, including childcare and housing resources, for the military families who help carry the weight of their loved one’s service.

And it reaffirms our commitment to peace through strength by providing for military base infrastructure and key deterrence efforts in the Indo-Pacific. 

It also honors our heroes, ensuring the preservation of national military cemeteries and memorials.

With this legislation, our obligations to our armed forces – past and present – and our security are upheld. 

A vote “yes,” is a vote to put our veterans, military families, base readiness, and America first. 

I thank Chairman Carter for his hard work on this measure, and I urge all of my colleagues to join me in supporting it on final passage.

With that, I yield back.