Austin News

The recent enactment of the Fiscal Year 2024 Veterans Affairs Major Medical Facility Authorization Act will bring over $1.2 billion to Texas for VA mental health and medical facilities. U.S. Senator John Cornyn, who cosponsored the legislation, expressed his commitment to advocating for veterans' interests in a statement following the bill's signing into law.

"As the son of a veteran, I am committed to advocating for the interests of current and former service members who proudly served our nation and now call Texas home," said Sen. Cornyn. "I am glad that this critical legislation to improve medical and mental health care for veterans has been signed into law and will fund much-needed VA construction projects in Texas, including a new health care center in El Paso and the expansion of existing facilities in Dallas."

The act authorizes approximately $530 million for expanding clinical space for mental health services, additional parking facilities, and land acquisition in Dallas. Additionally, close to $760 million is allocated for constructing a new health care center and utility plant in El Paso.

This legislative effort was led by Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Jon Tester (D-MT) and Ranking Member Jerry Moran (R-KS). It builds on previous infrastructure investments made through the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, which Senator Cornyn supported when it became law in 2022.