At a time when more than 175,000 American troops are in harm's way in Iraq and Afghanistan – including almost 1,000 members of the Connecticut National Guard – now is the time to strengthen the VA, and to ensure that we can meet our moral obligation to our veterans and their families when they come home.

Unfortunately, one of the most difficult problems facing the VA – and our veterans – is that VA funding is dependent on the annual Congressional appropriations process. The simplest solution to this constant battle over VA funding is to make VA health care an entitlement, rather than subject to appropriations. Rosa is a cosponsor of legislation (HR 515) that would make veterans funding a permanent part of the budget, ensuring that our veterans will be well cared-for each and every year.

Rosa has consistently opposed efforts to reduce costs at the VA through the imposition of higher fees and prescription drug copayments. Our nation's veterans have earned these benefits. We should not pursue fiscally reckless policies that are paid for by veterans.

Rosa is especially concerned with the quality of mental health care available to servicemembers and veterans. She has introduced the Military Mental Health Services Improvement Act (HR 1639) that will:

· Ensure that troops deploying to combat theaters get the mental health screening they need before and after deployment.

· Create a new program designed to alert dependents of servicemembers about the options for and availability of mental health treatment services.

· Reduce the stigma associated with mental health treatment.

· Improve coordination between DOD and the Department of Veterans Affairs in treating mental health cases.

· Allow recently-deactivated Guard and Reserve members and their families to obtain mental health services through TRICARE for up to 24 months after the servicemember returns.