I would like to thank everyone for coming today.

Today’s legislative hearing is an opportunity for Members of Congress, veterans, the VA and other interested parties to provide their views on and discuss recently-introduced legislation within the Subcommittee’s jurisdiction in a clear and orderly process.   

I do not necessarily agree or disagree with the bills before us today, but I believe that this is an important part of the legislative process that will encourage frank discussions and new ideas.

We have four bills before us today.  Each of the bills address important issues affecting our veterans today.  They cover a wide range of important issues including mental health; women veterans; and reimbursement for emergency care treatment in non-VA facilities.   

I look forward to hearing the views of our witnesses on these bills before us.