Thank you, Mr. Chairman. 

I appreciate your holding this legislative hearing to review five bills that have been referred to our Subcommittee.

I know we have a lot to cover this morning, so I will be brief with my opening remarks.    

Clearly all of the bills we will discuss were introduced with the best intentions and have potential value.  However, I am concerned that several of the legislative proposals contain provisions that are less than optimal and could unintentionally create more issues than they seek to resolve.

This hearing is an excellent opportunity to focus on specific issues, and I will have some questions on a few of the bills.  Addressing the concerns of all the Members of this subcommittee will allow us an important chance to continue improving the delivery of the very best health care possible to our veterans. 

I look forward to hearing from our colleagues and the other witnesses and engaging in a thoughtful dialogue about these important initiatives.

Thank you Mr. Chairman and I yield back.