Good afternoon.  The Specially Adapted Housing Grant program is relatively small and not as well-known as programs such as the GI Bill.  But it is vitally important to those who qualify for the program, whether as a result of combat or the effects of diseases such as diabetes.  That is why I want to thank the Chairwoman for holding this hearing.

I also thank our witnesses in advance for their testimonies on this important program.  I note that the Chairwoman has a bill, H.R. 675 to increase the maximum grant amounts, and would like to ask her to add me to the list of co-sponsors.

Legislation affecting veterans programs, including  those designed to help our seriously disabled veterans, must comply with the budget rules on mandatory funding.  I hope Mr. Pedigo can give us an estimate of the PAYGO costs for that bill in case we can identify some offsets down the line and I will work with the Chairwoman to find whatever offsets are needed to pass her bill.

Again, thanks to all and I look forward to hearing from today’s witnesses.