When Congress returns in November, the Senate will vote on whether or not to give the Veterans Affairs Department funding 12 months in advance. If the legislation passes, any government shutdowns or other budget obstacles would not be able to affect funding for VA services, reported Military Times.
The legislation is being called the Putting Veterans First Act, and closely resembles a plan awaiting decision in the House. These acts come after last year's government shutdown, during which many veterans were not able to receive necessary aid for their life after service.
"The result would be no disruptions in services for veterans in the event of any future government shutdown and no danger of cutting off veterans' checks. No one in their right mind wants a repeat of that dark period – and the Putting Veterans Funding First Act would prevent it," said Sen. Mark Begich, D-Alaska, a supporter of the legislation, according to Roll Call.
Military Times reported that a vote in 2009 made it possible for the VA to receive about 85 percent of its budget ahead of time, but the remaining 25 percent is still a crucial amount dedicated to funding important services. The senate will vote on the act Nov. 12.