Overview

Title

An Act Making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025, and for other purposes.

ELI5 AI

This bill is about spending money to build and fix things for the military and helps veterans get healthcare and other benefits, but some rules might make it harder for certain people to get the care they need.

Summary AI

H. R. 8580 aims to allocate funds for military construction and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025. The bill outlines appropriations for various branches of the military for construction projects, family housing, and other related needs. It also details the funding for veterans’ benefits, medical services, and infrastructure improvements under the Veterans Affairs Administration. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the regulation of issues such as procurement, project management, and usage of specific funds to ensure they meet certain standards and legal requirements.

Published

2024-09-12
Congress: 118
Session: 2
Chamber: SENATE
Status: Placed on Calendar Senate
Date: 2024-09-12
Package ID: BILLS-118hr8580pcs

Bill Statistics

Size

Sections:
126
Words:
21,550
Pages:
98
Sentences:
382

Language

Nouns: 6,812
Verbs: 1,681
Adjectives: 1,168
Adverbs: 238
Numbers: 1,098
Entities: 1,524

Complexity

Average Token Length:
4.59
Average Sentence Length:
56.41
Token Entropy:
5.70
Readability (ARI):
32.19

AnalysisAI

The bill under consideration is a comprehensive appropriations act designed to allocate funding for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025. It addresses a wide range of issues, including funding for various branches of the military, veterans' benefits, and healthcare, as well as provisions for related agencies such as the American Battle Monuments Commission and the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims.

General Summary of the Bill

The bill serves as a financial blueprint for operations and projects related to military infrastructure, veteran care, and other affiliated areas. It outlines specific appropriations for the Department of Defense, including construction for different branches of the military, as well as housing improvement and unaccompanied housing initiatives. Furthermore, it provides extensive funding to the Department of Veterans Affairs for benefits, healthcare services, and infrastructure improvements. Administrative provisions within the bill address detailed operational guidelines and financial management aspects across various government departments and agencies.

Summary of Significant Issues

One significant issue is the scope of authority granted to government officials, such as the extensive discretionary spending powers for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (Section 229), which could lead to inefficient or misaligned allocations. The bill also raises concerns about accountability, as it allows expired funds to be used for ongoing military projects without strict oversight (Section 115).

There are contentious points related to healthcare, particularly the prohibition on using funds for gender-affirming surgeries or hormone therapies for transgender individuals (Section 256), which could be viewed as discriminatory. Additionally, the restrictions on implementing certain VA policies related to abortion (Section 255) can potentially complicate healthcare decisions for pregnant women in critical situations.

The bill also restricts funding for diversity, equity, and inclusion training (Section 417), which may impact organizational culture negatively by limiting efforts to cultivate inclusive workplaces. Fixed funding allocations for gender-specific care for women veterans (Section 250) lack detailed accountability measures, which raises concerns about resource management.

Another key point is the continued funding for Guantanamo Bay (Section 133), which denies a reassessment of its necessity or efficiency. Restrictions on the use of funds for this purpose could suggest a missed opportunity for reallocation toward more urgent needs.

Impact on the Public and Specific Stakeholders

For the general public, this bill outlines how taxpayer money will be spent on national defense and veterans' services, which are areas of significant public interest. The efficient use of these funds could enhance national security and improve services for veterans, but mismanagement could lead to public scrutiny and reduced trust in government operations.

Veterans, military personnel, and their families are directly impacted by this bill, as it determines the funding for their housing, healthcare, and additional benefits. While the bill allocates substantial resources to these areas, specific prohibitive measures, such as restrictions on gender-affirming care, may negatively affect transgender veterans' access to necessary health services.

Organizations and businesses involved in military construction and healthcare services stand to benefit from potential contracts and partnerships. Conversely, firms focusing on diversity training, or companies associated with China's defense industry, may face challenges due to funding restrictions.

The bill's limitation on certain expenditures could also impact advocacy groups focusing on issues related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and healthcare rights. They might view these restrictions as setbacks to progress in these domains.

Overall, this bill underscores the balancing act between fiscal responsibility and meeting the diverse needs of stakeholders reliant on government appropriations. Addressing the raised issues could ensure a more equitable and effective allocation of resources aligned with contemporary societal values and needs.

Financial Assessment

Financial Allocations in H.R. 8580

H.R. 8580 is a legislative bill focused on setting aside funds for military construction and the Department of Veterans Affairs for the fiscal year ending on September 30, 2025. The bill contains detailed appropriations for various military branches and aims to enhance infrastructure, veterans' services, and other associated activities.

Military Construction and Housing

The bill allocates significant funds for military construction across different branches:

  • Army: $2,217,757,000 is allocated for projects related to military works and real property, remaining available until September 30, 2029.
  • Navy and Marine Corps: $4,332,414,000 is designated for similar purposes, also available until September 30, 2029.
  • Air Force: $3,268,276,000 is allocated, with the same time availability.
  • Defense-wide: $3,500,083,000 is specified, which also includes potential transfers within the Department of Defense.

These appropriations highlight a comprehensive approach to ensuring military readiness through facility upgrades and construction projects. However, concerns about accountability and oversight arise given the provision allowing expired or lapsed funds to be repurposed for construction projects. This highlights a need for monitoring to prevent potential misuse (Sec. 115).

Veterans Affairs Funding

Funding for various services under the Department of Veterans Affairs is extensive:

  • Compensation and Pensions: Over $214 billion is appropriated to support veterans' benefits.
  • Medical Services: $75,039,000,000 is allocated, ensuring healthcare for veterans with service-connected disabilities and lower income.
  • Medical Community Care: An additional $34 billion is dedicated to healthcare at non-Department facilities.

A significant allocation of $1,323,444,000 is earmarked for gender-specific care and initiatives for women veterans (Sec. 250). This aims to address the unique health needs of female veterans. Nevertheless, concerns persist about insufficient details or accountability measures, which could lead to inefficient resource utilization.

Restrictions and Regulations

Several provisions place restrictions on fund usage:

  • Gender Affirming Care: The prohibition of using funds for surgical procedures or hormone therapies for gender affirming care may be considered discriminatory, creating potential barriers to healthcare for transgender individuals (Sec. 256).

  • Abortion Services: The prohibition on executing abortion-related services except under specific circumstances adds complexity and potential ethical concerns to healthcare decisions (Sec. 255).

These restrictions could impact access to necessary healthcare services, drawing attention to broader debates on healthcare rights and discrimination.

Transfers and Oversight

The bill provides broad authority for fund transfers within the Department of Veterans Affairs. For instance, up to $594,828,000 can be transferred to the Joint Department of Defense—Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Facility Demonstration Fund (Sec. 219). While flexibility in fund allocation can be beneficial, excessive transfer authority without stringent oversight risks discretionary spending that might lead to misaligned priorities or wasteful expenditures (Sec. 229).

Use of Technology

Encouragement to expand E-Commerce technologies comes without concrete oversight or detailed plans. This may lead to inefficiencies if not aligned with clear objectives or monitored effectively (Sec. 403).

H.R. 8580 underscores significant financial commitments to military and veterans' infrastructure, coupled with complex regulatory measures that may impact fund usage. The appropriations reflect a focus on broad-based enhancements while raising critical questions regarding accountability, discrimination, and strategic fund management.

Issues

  • The bill allows the use of expired or lapsed funds for military construction or family housing projects, which raises concerns about accountability and proper oversight of public funds (Sec. 115).

  • The provision prohibiting the use of funds for surgical procedures or hormone therapies for gender affirming care could be considered discriminatory and limit access to healthcare for transgender individuals (Sec. 256).

  • The restriction on using funds to implement, administer, or otherwise carry out the interim final rule on abortion adds complexity to healthcare decisions, particularly in cases where the pregnancy poses a health risk (Sec. 255).

  • Funds may be used to enforce provisions that some argue could be seen as discriminatory, such as restricting diversity, equity, and inclusion training, which might impact organizational culture and align with broader social issues (Sec. 417).

  • The section seems to limit flexibility in handling grave and pressing issues, such as the inability to update or remove controversial displays or resources within the Department of Veterans Affairs (Sec. 423, 429).

  • The prohibition on using funds for the closure or realignment of the Naval Station at Guantanamo Bay perpetuates spending without clear reassessment of necessity or efficiency (Sec. 133).

  • The extensive transfer authority provided could lead to discretionary spending without clear oversight, possibly resulting in wasteful or misaligned allocations (Sec. 229).

  • Lack of specific details and accountability measures for significant sums allocated to critical areas such as gender-specific care for women veterans might lead to inefficient use of resources (Sec. 250).

  • The discretion given to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to approve research that involves animals like canines and primates without delegation could create bottlenecks and ethical concerns, alongside intricate documentation requirements (Sec. 246).

  • Broad encouragement to use E-Commerce technologies comes without specific guidance or oversight, possibly leading to mismatched priorities or inefficiencies (Sec. 403).

Sections

Sections are presented as they are annotated in the original legislative text. Any missing headers, numbers, or non-consecutive order is due to the original text.

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Summary AI

For the fiscal year ending on September 30, 2025, funds are being allocated from the Treasury for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, related agencies, and additional unspecified purposes.

101. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

In this section, it states that no money from the funds mentioned can be used for construction contracts with a cost-plus-a-fixed-fee arrangement if the estimated costs are over $25,000 and the project is within the United States (excluding Alaska) unless the Secretary of Defense provides written approval with reasons for the expenditure.

Money References

  • None of the funds made available in this title shall be expended for payments under a cost-plus-a-fixed-fee contract for construction, where cost estimates exceed $25,000, to be performed within the United States, except Alaska, without the specific approval in writing of the Secretary of Defense setting forth the reasons therefor.

102. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

Funds allocated in this part of the bill for construction projects can be used to hire passenger vehicles.

103. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

Funds allocated for construction in this part of the bill can be used to support the Federal Highway Administration in building access roads. These projects must be certified as crucial for national defense by the Secretary of Defense, as per the rules in section 210 of title 23 of the United States Code.

104. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

None of the money provided in this section can be used to start building new military bases in the United States unless there has been a specific approval and allocation of funds for that purpose.

105. Read Opens in new tab

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Funds from this section cannot be used to buy land or land easements for more than their appraised value by the Army Corps of Engineers or the Naval Facilities Engineering Command, except in certain cases like court-ordered values, purchases by the Attorney General, deals under $25,000, or if the Secretary of Defense sees it as beneficial for the public.

Money References

  • None of the funds made available in this title shall be used for purchase of land or land easements in excess of 100 percent of the value as determined by the Army Corps of Engineers or the Naval Facilities Engineering Command, except: (1) where there is a determination of value by a Federal court; (2) purchases negotiated by the Attorney General or the designee of the Attorney General; (3) where the estimated value is less than $25,000; or (4) as otherwise determined by the Secretary of Defense to be in the public interest. ---

106. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section specifies that the funds provided cannot be used to buy land, prepare sites, or install utilities for family housing, except for housing projects that have already received funding through military construction appropriations.

107. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section states that funds from this title cannot be used for minor construction projects to move activities from one military base or installation to another unless the Committees on Appropriations in both the House and Senate are notified beforehand.

108. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

Funds provided in this part of the bill cannot be used to buy steel for building projects unless American steel companies have been given the chance to participate in the bidding process.

109. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section states that during the current fiscal year, the Department of Defense is not allowed to use its construction or housing funds to pay for property taxes in any foreign country.

110. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

Funds from this section cannot be used to start a new overseas installation unless Congress's Appropriations Committees are notified beforehand.

111. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section prohibits the use of funds for architect and engineer contracts over $500,000 for projects in Japan, any NATO member country, or countries bordering the Arabian Gulf, unless these contracts are given to U.S. companies or joint ventures involving U.S. companies and local firms.

Money References

  • SEC. 111. None of the funds made available in this title may be obligated for architect and engineer contracts estimated by the Government to exceed $500,000 for projects to be accomplished in Japan, in any North Atlantic Treaty Organization member country, or in countries bordering the Arabian Gulf, unless such contracts are awarded to United States firms or United States firms in joint venture with host nation firms.

112. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section states that funds for military construction in certain areas, including U.S. territories in the Pacific and countries near the Arabian Gulf, cannot be used for contracts over $1,000,000 given to foreign contractors. However, this rule does not apply if the lowest bid from a U.S. contractor is more than 20% higher than the lowest bid from a foreign contractor, or if the construction is on Kwajalein Atoll and the lowest bid is from a Marshallese contractor.

Money References

  • None of the funds made available in this title for military construction in the United States territories and possessions in the Pacific and on Kwajalein Atoll, or in countries bordering the Arabian Gulf, may be used to award any contract estimated by the Government to exceed $1,000,000 to a foreign contractor:

113. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The Secretary of Defense must notify the relevant Congressional committees, including the Appropriations Committees, at least 30 days before any planned military exercise involving U.S. personnel if the expected costs for construction are over $100,000.

Money References

  • The Secretary of Defense shall inform the appropriate committees of both Houses of Congress, including the Committees on Appropriations, of plans and scope of any proposed military exercise involving United States personnel 30 days prior to its occurring, if amounts expended for construction, either temporary or permanent, are anticipated to exceed $100,000.

114. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

Funds previously given to the Department of Defense for building projects can now be used for construction approved by current laws passed by Congress for each military department.

115. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

Funds that were supposed to expire can still be used to cover costs related to overseeing, inspecting, and designing military construction or family housing projects, even if those projects are already underway.

116. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

In Section 116, it states that funds allocated for military construction projects can be used for a project or a part of it until the end of the fourth fiscal year after the funds were initially provided. This is allowed as long as the funds come from the military construction budget and the spending does not exceed the project's original budget and any legally approved increases.

117. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The Secretary of Defense can transfer certain funds to the Department of Defense's Family Housing Improvement Fund or the Military Unaccompanied Housing Improvement Fund. This can be done after notifying Congress and involves using the money for construction purposes or loan guarantees related to military housing.

118. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

Under SEC. 118, the Department of Defense is allowed to transfer money from its Base Closure Account to another fund to cover costs related to the Homeowners Assistance Program. These funds will be combined with the receiving fund and used for the same purposes.

119. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

Funds allocated for maintaining military family housing must be used solely for that purpose, with a limit of $20,000 per year on repairs for high-ranking officers' homes unless Congress is notified in advance or in special circumstances. The Under Secretary of Defense is required to report these expenses annually to Congress.

Money References

  • Notwithstanding any other provision of law, funds made available in this title for operation and maintenance of family housing shall be the exclusive source of funds for repair and maintenance of all family housing units, including general or flag officer quarters: Provided, That not more than $20,000 per unit may be spent annually for the maintenance and repair of any general or flag officer quarters without 30 days prior notification, or 14 days for a notification provided in an electronic medium pursuant to sections 480 and 2883 of title 10, United States Code, to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress, except that an after-the-fact notification shall be submitted if the limitation is exceeded solely due to costs associated with environmental remediation that could not be reasonably anticipated at the time of the budget submission: Provided further, That the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) is to report annually to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress all operation and maintenance expenditures for each individual general or flag officer quarters for the prior fiscal year. ---

120. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The Ford Island Improvement Account is funded to support specific purposes outlined in section 2814 of title 10, United States Code. These funds can be used until they are fully spent or transferred as instructed by the law.

121. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section explains that for five years after the budget for military building and family housing ends, any leftover funds can be moved to a special account for foreign currency changes in defense construction if the funds are not needed for existing commitments or adjustments. These transferred funds will have the same availability and purposes as the new account.

122. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

Amounts in an account can be moved between different projects and activities within that account as long as they follow the rules set out by the Department of Defense Financial Management Regulation.

123. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

None of the funds allocated in this section can be used for planning, designing, or constructing projects at Arlington National Cemetery.

124. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The bill allocates specific amounts of money for military construction projects across different branches, including the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Army National Guard, and Air National Guard, to be used by 2029. The funding can only be used for projects listed as priorities for 2025, which must be approved before spending, and each military department must provide a spending plan within 60 days of the bill becoming law.

125. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section states that any funds authorized for 2025 military construction projects across various branches of the Department of Defense will be made available immediately to cover the entire scope of the approved projects.

126. Read Opens in new tab

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Funds from this Act or unused funds from previous Acts can be used before October 1, 2026, for military construction projects from 2018, 2019, and 2020, as long as the projects are still authorized. However, funds that were marked as emergency spending by Congress cannot be used for this purpose.

127. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The term "congressional defense committees" as used in this Act refers to specific committees within the House of Representatives and the Senate, including the Armed Services Committees and certain subcommittees on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs.

128. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section allocates $15 million each to the Army, Navy and Marine Corps, and Air Force for planning, design, and construction improvements of defense laboratories, with funds available until September 30, 2029. An expenditure plan must be submitted to Congress within 60 days of the bill's enactment, and no funds can be used until this plan is approved by congressional committees.

129. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section allocates $100 million for the Air Force to use on military construction in response to natural disasters, with the funds available until September 30, 2029. The Secretary of the Air Force must submit a spending plan to the relevant congressional committees within 60 days of the bill's enactment.

Money References

  • SEC. 129. For an additional amount for “Military Construction, Air Force”, $100,000,000, to remain available until September 30, 2029, for expenses incurred as a result of natural disasters:

130. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section allocates $25 million each to the Army, Navy and Marine Corps, and Air Force for planning and design related to child development centers, with the funds available until September 30, 2029. The Secretary of each military department must submit a spending plan to Congress within 60 days of the act's enactment.

131. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section allocates $25 million each to the Army, Navy and Marine Corps, and Air Force for planning and design of barracks, with funds available until September 30, 2029. It also requires that within 60 days of the bill's enactment, a spending plan for the funds must be submitted to the Appropriations Committees of both houses of Congress.

132. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section allocates $15 million each for minor construction projects in the Army, Navy and Marine Corps, and Air Force, with the Navy and Marine Corps amount adjusted but effectively remaining the same. The military department heads must submit a spending plan within 60 days to Congress, and funds cannot be used until this plan is approved.

133. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section prohibits any funds from this Act from being used to close or change the operations of the United States Naval Station at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba.

201. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section allows for the transfer of funds between certain veteran-related appropriations, like "Compensation and Pensions", for the fiscal year 2025. However, before any transfer can occur, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs must request permission from Congress's Appropriations Committees, and the transfer can proceed only after they approve it or if no response is given within 30 days.

202. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section outlines that funds allocated to various medical accounts within the Department of Veterans Affairs for the fiscal year 2025 can be reallocated among these accounts. Transfers of 1% or less can occur with notification, but larger transfers, or any involving the "Medical Facilities" account, require approval from Congress.

203. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section allows the use of appropriations for salaries and expenses to cover services as authorized by federal law, including hiring vehicles, leasing property, and providing uniforms or allowances, as specified under certain sections of the United States Code.

204. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The law in this section states that the money set aside in this part of the bill cannot be used to buy land for building new hospitals or homes, except for money allocated for major and minor construction projects.

205. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

This section states that funds cannot be used for hospital care or exams for people, except for veterans who are entitled to these services or those covered by certain laws. If anyone not covered uses these services, they must pay back the cost to the "Medical Services" account at rates set by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

206. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section states that funds allocated for "Compensation and Pensions," "Readjustment Benefits," and "Veterans Insurance and Indemnities" can be used to pay for obligations from the previous year that need to be recorded by law against last year's accounts during the last quarter of the 2024 fiscal year.

207. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

Appropriations from this title can be used to pay off debts from the same accounts in past years, as specified by certain sections of the United States Code. However, if these debts are from trust fund accounts, they can only be paid using funds marked for "Compensation and Pensions."

208. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

During fiscal year 2025, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs will reimburse certain expenses related to the administration of veterans' insurance programs using surplus funds from three specific life insurance funds. The repayment will only occur if there are available surplus earnings, and cannot exceed those earnings; the Secretary will also determine how much of the administration cost is linked to each insurance program and any associated total disability income insurance.

209. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

Amounts deducted from proceeds of enhanced-use leases can be used to reimburse an account for past expenses related to these leases, and these funds will remain available until they are fully spent.

210. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section states that funds for salaries and administrative expenses can be used to reimburse certain offices for services, with specific spending limits for each office. Additionally, payments can be made in advance based on cost estimates, and received amounts should credit specific accounts for further use by the service-providing office.

Money References

  • Funds available in this title or funds for salaries and other administrative expenses shall also be available to reimburse the Office of Resolution Management, Diversity and Inclusion, the Office of Employment Discrimination Complaint Adjudication, and the Alternative Dispute Resolution function within the Office of Human Resources and Administration for all services provided at rates which will recover actual costs but not to exceed $133,363,000 for the Office of Resolution Management, Diversity and Inclusion, $9,606,581 for the Office of Employment Discrimination Complaint Adjudication, and $7,686,000 for the Alternative Dispute Resolution function within the Office of Human Resources and Administration:

211. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section states that the Department of Veterans Affairs will not use funds to provide medical services for non-service-connected disabilities unless the person provides current and accurate insurance information to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. If someone fails to do so, the Secretary can recover the cost of the services as a debt, and any recovered funds can be used in the fiscal year they are received.

212. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section allows the Department of Veterans Affairs to use money earned from leasing activities for construction projects. This money can go to both major and minor construction accounts for building, changing, or improving any medical facility they manage, and it adds to the funds already set aside for these projects.

213. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

Amounts designated under "Medical Services" can be used to provide recreational resources and cover funeral-related costs for beneficiaries who are under the care of the Department.

214. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

Funds added to the Medical Care Collections Fund can be moved to the "Medical Services" and "Medical Community Care" accounts, where they can be used indefinitely for the activities of these accounts, as authorized by the United States Code.

215. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The Secretary of Veterans Affairs can make agreements with health centers and tribal organizations in Alaska to offer healthcare, including mental and dental care, to veterans in rural areas of the state. "Rural Alaska" refers to areas outside Anchorage and Fairbanks North Star Borough, and all participants must follow the rules set by the Secretary.

216. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section allows money deposited into the Department of Veterans Affairs Capital Asset Fund, according to a specific law, to be moved to accounts for major and minor construction projects. These funds can be used as needed and don't have an expiration date.

217. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The Secretary of Veterans Affairs must submit a report to Congress about the financial status of the Department of Veterans Affairs within 30 days after the end of each fiscal quarter. This report must, at a minimum, follow specific instructions outlined in a previous law.

218. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

Funds given for various veterans' services in 2025 can be moved to or from the Information Technology Systems account, but the total increase for that account cannot exceed 10%. Before any transfer occurs, approval must be obtained from the Appropriations Committees of both houses of Congress.

219. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The Department of Veterans Affairs is allowed to transfer up to $594,828,000, along with additional funds if notified, from its budget to a fund shared with the Department of Defense for operating combined medical facilities for veterans. Additionally, a previous legal requirement outlined in section 220 of a specific public law has been repealed.

Money References

  • Of the amounts appropriated to the Department of Veterans Affairs for fiscal year 2025 for “Medical Services”, “Medical Community Care”, “Medical Support and Compliance”, “Medical Facilities”, “Construction, Minor Projects”, and “Information Technology Systems”, up to $594,828,000, plus reimbursements, may be transferred to the Joint Department of Defense—Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Facility Demonstration Fund, established by section 1704 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 (Public Law 111–84; 123 Stat. 2571) and may be used for operation of the facilities designated as combined Federal medical facilities as described by section 706 of the Duncan Hunter National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 (Public Law 110–417; 122 Stat. 4500):

220. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The Department of Veterans Affairs can transfer up to $664,625,000 from specific medical accounts to a special fund for running joint medical facilities with the Department of Defense. They can also move more money to this fund if they notify Congress first.

Money References

  • Of the amounts appropriated to the Department of Veterans Affairs which become available on October 1, 2025, for “Medical Services”, “Medical Community Care”, “Medical Support and Compliance”, and “Medical Facilities”, up to $664,625,000, plus reimbursements, may be transferred to the Joint Department of Defense—Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Facility Demonstration Fund, established by section 1704 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 (Public Law 111–84; 123 Stat. 2571) and may be used for operation of the facilities designated as combined Federal medical facilities as described by section 706 of the Duncan Hunter National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 (Public Law 110–417; 122 Stat. 4500): Provided, That additional funds may be transferred from accounts designated in this section to the Joint Department of Defense—Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Facility Demonstration Fund upon written notification by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress. ---

221. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section specifies that money deposited into the Medical Care Collections Fund for healthcare at combined Federal medical facilities can be used for two purposes: transferring to a special fund for a joint medical facility project between the Department of Defense and Veterans Affairs, and for operating these combined facilities. Additionally, the money transferred to the joint fund does not have an expiration date and can be spent at any time.

222. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section states that at least $15,000,000 from funds for various medical services and facilities will be moved to a special fund shared by the Department of Defense and the Veterans Affairs, to be used for any purpose that section 8111 of the U.S. Code allows, and the funds will not expire.

Money References

  • Of the amounts available in this title for “Medical Services”, “Medical Community Care”, “Medical Support and Compliance”, and “Medical Facilities”, a minimum of $15,000,000 shall be transferred to the DOD–VA Health Care Sharing Incentive Fund, as authorized by section 8111(d) of title 38, United States Code, to remain available until expended, for any purpose authorized by section 8111 of title 38, United States Code. ---

223. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The Secretary of Veterans Affairs is required to notify Congress about any significant cost savings of at least $5 million or 5% from major construction projects within 14 days of identifying these savings. Additionally, the Secretary must inform Congress about how these savings will be used 14 days before they are spent.

Money References

  • The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall notify the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress of all bid savings in a major construction project that total at least $5,000,000, or 5 percent of the programmed amount of the project, whichever is less:

224. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

None of the allocated funds for major construction projects can be used for anything beyond what was initially approved by Congress, unless the Secretary of Veterans Affairs gets permission from the Appropriations Committees in both the House and Senate.

225. Read Opens in new tab

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The Secretary of Veterans Affairs must send a quarterly report to Congress within 30 days after each fiscal quarter ends. This report should include performance measures, data from regional offices, and details about pending disability claims and appeals.

226. Read Opens in new tab

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The Secretary of Veterans Affairs must notify Congress in writing at least 15 days before making any organizational changes that transfer 25 or more full-time employees from one part of the Department to another.

227. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The Secretary of Veterans Affairs must inform Congress every three months about any national outreach or marketing campaign that costs more than $1 million.

Money References

  • The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall provide on a quarterly basis to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress notification of any single national outreach and awareness marketing campaign in which obligations exceed $1,000,000. ---

228. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The Secretary of Veterans Affairs can transfer funds to the "Medical Services" account to address urgent healthcare needs within the Veterans Health Administration, but must get approval from the Office of Management and Budget and the Appropriations Committees of Congress, and ensure the funds are not taken from emergency-designated budgets or for items previously denied by Congress.

229. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

Amounts allocated to the Department of Veterans Affairs for the year 2025 can be moved between two specific accounts, but the Secretary must first ask for and receive permission from Congress.

230. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The Secretary of Veterans Affairs cannot move money around between major construction projects or programs if it involves more than $7,000,000, unless they get approval from the Appropriations Committees of both the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Money References

  • The Secretary of Veterans Affairs may not reprogram funds among major construction projects or programs if such instance of reprogramming will exceed $7,000,000, unless such reprogramming is approved by the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress.

231. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section mandates that the Department of Veterans Affairs' suicide hotline provide immediate help from trained professionals and comply with specific standards. It also prohibits using funds to block hiring for hotline-related positions, and requires a study on the hotline's effectiveness by reviewing data on veterans who contact it and their subsequent outcomes.

232. Read Opens in new tab

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The section prohibits the use of funds by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, from October 1, 2018, to January 1, 2026, to violate the guidelines set in the "Veterans Health Administration Clinical Preventive Services Guidance Statement" for breast cancer screening, as issued in May 2017.

233. Read Opens in new tab

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The section outlines that funds for the "Medical Services" account of the Department of Veterans Affairs can be used to offer fertility counseling and treatment, including adoption costs, for veterans with service-related disabilities preventing natural procreation. It defines key terms like "covered veteran" and "assisted reproductive technology" and aligns these services with existing military policies, while ensuring funds are managed as specified by a previous law.

234. Read Opens in new tab

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The section states that funds from this Act or any other Act meant for the Department of Veterans Affairs cannot be used in ways that contradict either the specified appropriations law from 2006 or a specific section of the United States Code.

235. Read Opens in new tab

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Section 235 states that Section 842 of Public Law 109-115 does not apply when transferring certain activities or functions of the Veterans Health Administration, Veterans Benefits Administration, or National Cemetery Administration to contractors owned by Indian Tribes or Native Hawaiian Organizations.

236. Read Opens in new tab

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The section requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to stop using Social Security numbers for identification in their information systems by September 30, 2024, but allows their use in certain situations, such as when required by law or for anti-fraud activities. These rules override a previous law.

237. Read Opens in new tab

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The section states that for the fiscal years 2025 and 2026, the same rules from section 239 of Public Law 114–223 will apply to the funds given to the Department of Veterans Affairs for "Medical Services."

238. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section prohibits the Department of Veterans Affairs from using any funds, whether from current or previous budgets, to move money from the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation Fund to any other account within the department.

239. Read Opens in new tab

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The section allows the Department of Veterans Affairs to use funds for "Medical Services" in both 2025 and 2026 to continue and expand a child care program. This is permitted even if it contradicts a specific part of an existing law.

240. Read Opens in new tab

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The section states that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs cannot use the funds from this bill to make agreements with individuals that stop them from talking to Congress members or their staff, unless the topic is already prohibited by federal law or needs to be kept secret for national security or foreign affairs.

241. Read Opens in new tab

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The section states that for the fiscal years 2025 and 2026, the rules outlined in section 258 of division A of Public Law 114–223 will be applicable to the funds allocated to the Department of Veterans Affairs.

242. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section ensures that funds cannot be used to block an Inspector General from accessing records, documents, or other materials necessary for their duties, except where explicitly restricted by law. Departments or agencies must allow access promptly, and if they fail to do so, the Inspector General must report this to the House and Senate Appropriations Committees within five days.

243. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

None of the money from this Act can be used in a way that would make veterans wait longer for care at Department of Veterans Affairs' medical facilities.

244. Read Opens in new tab

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The text states that for fiscal year 2025, funding provided to the Veterans Health Administration cannot be used to change any specific-purpose program funded in fiscal year 2024 into a general-purpose program unless the Secretary of Veterans Affairs notifies Congress at least 30 days in advance and receives approval.

245. Read Opens in new tab

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For the fiscal years 2025 and 2026, the Department of Veterans Affairs will use funds following the rules set out in section 248 of Public Law 114–223.

246. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section outlines restrictions on using funds for research involving canines, felines, or non-human primates unless specifically approved by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. The Secretary must certify that the research is necessary, related to veterans' combat-related conditions, and follows ethical guidelines. Additionally, regular reporting and inspections are required, with an ultimate plan to stop such research by March 2026.

247. Read Opens in new tab

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The Secretary of Veterans Affairs is authorized to use funds to maintain a limit of no more than 125 veterans for every staff member in certain rehabilitation programs. Additionally, within 180 days of the law's enactment, the Secretary must report to Congress about these programs, including the current veteran-to-staff ratios and suggestions for improving them.

248. Read Opens in new tab

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For the fiscal years 2025 and 2026, the “Veterans Health Administration, Medical Community Care” account can use its funds for costs that would usually come from the Veterans Choice Fund as per the rules set by the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act.

249. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

For fiscal years 2017 through 2019, any funds meant for providing aid to state homes under the "Medical Services" account will now stay in the "Medical Community Care" account.

250. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section specifies that for the fiscal year 2025, $1,323,444,000 is allocated to the Department of Veterans Affairs from various accounts within the Veterans Health Administration. This amount is specifically designated for providing gender-specific care and programs for supporting women veterans.

Money References

  • Of the amounts made available for the Department of Veterans Affairs for fiscal year 2025, in this or any other Act, under the “Veterans Health Administration—Medical Services”, “Veterans Health Administration—Medical Community Care”, “Veterans Health Administration—Medical Support and Compliance”, and “Veterans Health Administration—Medical Facilities” accounts, $1,323,444,000 shall be made available for gender-specific care and programmatic efforts to deliver care for women veterans.

251. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The Secretary is required to start building the Community Based Outpatient Clinic in Bakersfield, California, by September 30, 2025, unless stopped by a federal or state court. This project is authorized by a specific law and must follow an existing lease agreement.

252. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The Secretary of Veterans Affairs must send a report to Congress every three months about the status of the "Veterans Medical Care and Health Fund," which was set up under the American Rescue Plan. This report should include details about how the money is being used and plans for any remaining funds.

253. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

Any money transferred to the Secretary and managed by a certain corporation from October 1, 2018, to September 30, 2019, under certain legal sections can continue to be used to settle valid obligations, as long as the Secretary of Veterans Affairs decides it's necessary.

254. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The Secretary of Veterans Affairs can use leftover funds from major and minor construction projects to help fund a facility, according to a specific law, but must first get permission from certain Congressional committees. The request should also confirm that all cost-saving measures have been tried before using these funds.

255. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section prohibits using any funds from this Act to enforce or carry out specific rules related to the Department of Veterans Affairs' policies on abortion. It also states that funds cannot be used to pay for abortions, except when the pregnancy is due to rape, incest, or when the woman's life is at risk from the pregnancy.

256. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

None of the money from this Act can be used for surgeries or hormone treatments related to gender affirming care.

257. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section states that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs cannot use funds from this Act to fly or display any flag over a VA facility or national cemetery besides specific ones: the United States flag, a State or Territory flag, the Washington D.C. flag, an Indian Tribal government flag, the Department of Veterans Affairs flag, an Armed Force flag, or the POW/MIA flag.

258. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

For the period from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025, this section prohibits the use of any funds from this Act to manage, apply, or enforce a rule issued by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs regarding changes to the rates for special transportation services, as published on February 16, 2023.

259. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

None of the money provided by this law can be used for the Veterans Health Administration's coronavirus vaccination program directed at its health care staff, as specified in VHA Directive 1193.01.

260. Read Opens in new tab

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Funds from this Act cannot be used to provide services to individuals who are in the United States illegally, unless they are eligible for health care through the Department of Veterans Affairs.

261. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

None of the funds from this act can be used by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to label someone as mentally incompetent or a risk, unless a judge or similar authority decides they are a danger to themselves or others.

301. Read Opens in new tab

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Amounts in a special account created under the law 10 U.S.C. 7727 are set aside to fund activities at the Army National Military Cemeteries, and these funds can be used until they are all spent.

401. Read Opens in new tab

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Congress states in Section 401 that the money allocated by this Act cannot be used beyond the current fiscal year unless it specifically allows for it.

402. Read Opens in new tab

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In Section 402, it is stated that no funds from this Act can be used for any program, project, or activity if it is found not to comply with any federal law concerning risk assessment, private property rights protection, or unfunded mandates.

403. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

All government departments and agencies funded by this Act are encouraged to use “E-Commerce” technologies and methods more in their business and public services, as long as it aligns with existing laws and budgets.

404. Read Opens in new tab

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In Section 404, the bill requires that all necessary reports and notifications be sent to specific subcommittees dealing with Military Construction and Veterans Affairs within both the House of Representatives and the Senate committees on Appropriations, unless an exception is mentioned.

405. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

Funds provided by this Act cannot be transferred to other parts of the U.S. Government unless the transfer is allowed by this or another appropriations Act.

406. Read Opens in new tab

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Funds from this Act are prohibited from being used for any project or program named after current members of the U.S. House of Representatives, including Delegates and Resident Commissioners.

407. Read Opens in new tab

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Agencies receiving funding under this Act are required to publish reports on their public websites, as long as their publication is in the national interest. However, reports that could compromise national security or contain confidential information are exempt from this requirement. Additionally, any report must be shared with the relevant Congressional Committees for at least 30 days before being posted online.

408. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

None of the money provided by this law can be used to set up or keep a computer network unless it blocks access to pornography. However, this rule does not stop law enforcement and related agencies from using funds for their investigations and legal work.

409. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The law states that money provided by this bill cannot be used by government agencies to pay for first-class travel for their employees if it violates specific federal regulations.

410. Read Opens in new tab

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None of the funds from this Act can be used to sign contracts for goods or services, like construction, with contractors who haven't followed Executive Order No. 12989.

411. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

None of the funds provided by this Act can be used in a way that goes against section 101(e)(8) of title 10 of the United States Code.

412. In general Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section states that the Department of Defense cannot use funds from this Act to build or expand facilities in the U.S. or its territories for holding detainees from Guantánamo Bay, except for facility changes at the Guantánamo Bay location itself. It applies to individuals detained there as of June 24, 2009, who are neither U.S. citizens nor Armed Forces members and are either in the Department of Defense's custody or detained at Guantánamo Bay.

413. Read Opens in new tab

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Congress has prohibited the use of funds from this Act to influence legislation or appropriation matters in Congress, except for communicating with Congress members as allowed by law.

414. Read Opens in new tab

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None of the funds provided by this Act can be used to implement or enforce Executive Order 13985, Executive Order 14035, or Executive Order 14091.

415. Read Opens in new tab

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None of the funds provided by this Act can be used to support any program or activity that promotes Critical Race Theory or related concepts.

416. In general Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section states that no federal funds can be used to discriminate against anyone who, based on sincerely held religious beliefs, believes that marriage is between a man and a woman. This includes preventing discriminatory actions like altering tax treatment or denying grants, licenses, or benefits due to these beliefs, and ensures the government acknowledges accreditations, licenses, or certifications without bias.

417. Read Opens in new tab

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None of the money provided by this Act can be used for any office, program, or activity related to diversity, equity, and inclusion training or implementation.

418. Read Opens in new tab

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None of the money provided by this law can be used to enforce wearing masks due to COVID-19.

419. Read Opens in new tab

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None of the money provided by this law can be used to carry out, implement, or enforce Executive Order No. 14057, which was issued on December 8, 2021.

420. Read Opens in new tab

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The section prohibits the use of funds from this Act to implement several specific executive orders related to environmental protection, climate change, refugee resettlement, financial risks associated with climate change, clean energy, and environmental justice.

421. In general Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

In Section 421, it states that the Department of Veterans Affairs cannot use funds from the 2025 budget to buy computers, printers, software, or related equipment from companies connected to China or its defense industry. This rule also applies to situations where the Department contracts third parties for these purchases.

422. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

None of the funding from this Act can be used to give a critical skills incentive to people in senior executive positions at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

423. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section titled "SEC. 423" in the bill is currently not funded or allocated any financial resources as it states "$0."

Money References

  • SEC. 423. $0.

424. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

Section 424 Summary: This section of the bill prohibits any funds from being used by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ban or remove the photograph "V-J Day in Times Square."

425. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section states that the funds from this Act cannot be used by the Department of Veterans Affairs to shut down mileage reimbursement kiosks.

426. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

None of the money provided by this Act can be used to enforce a rule from the VHA Office of Community Care's guidebook that limits wait time and drive time access standards to primary, specialty, and non-institutional care services only.

427. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section states that the funds provided by the bill cannot be used by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to report certain determinations to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System.

428. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section states that the Department of Veterans Affairs cannot use any of the funds from this Act to enforce a rule that stops VA healthcare providers from helping veterans with paperwork related to joining state-approved marijuana programs. Specifically, this includes directives to VA officials and staff to avoid recommending, referring, or aiding veterans with forms for these marijuana programs.

429. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

None of the funds provided by this law can be used to change or remove the mission statement display at the Department of Veterans Affairs, which is about caring for veterans and their families, as inspired by President Lincoln's promise.

430. Read Opens in new tab

Summary AI

The section states that money from this Act cannot be used for the Department of Veterans Affairs to handle medical claims for the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Health Service Corps, which is part of the Department of Homeland Security.