H.R. 8469 · 119th Congress · Received in the Senate.
Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Spending Bill for 2027
Making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2027, and for other purposes.
Sponsored by Rep. Carter, John R. [R-TX-31] (R-TX)
Deep dive June 19, 2026
This bill sets spending for military building projects and Veterans Affairs programs. The budget year starts October 1, 2026. It covers base construction, veteran healthcare, disability pay, and troop housing.
What to know
The bill adds $500 million for military construction the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force listed as unfunded needs in 2027.
Veterans Health programs get set amounts, including $3.46 billion for homelessness, $3.5 billion for caregiver support, and $700 million for suicide prevention.
No funds can be used to cut staff, shorten hours, or reduce services at the Veterans Crisis Line or other VA suicide prevention programs.
No money can close a VA hospital or clinic until the VA Secretary first reports to Congress on how it would affect veterans' access to care.
The VA may move money between accounts, but most transfers require written notice to Congress and a waiting period or formal approval.
The bill bars naming any project after a sitting House member and bans first-class air travel for federal workers using these funds.
Heads up
11 buried provisions
Provisions we flagged do not match the bill's stated purpose, or repeat language from bills that did not pass on their own.
Block on closing Guantánamo Bay detention (Section 131)
Why we flagged this
This is a military construction funding bill. But one short line bars using any funds to close or realign the Navy base at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba. That is a major policy choice tucked inside a spending bill. It keeps the base open for another year.
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None of the funds made available by this Act may be used to carry out the closure or realignment of the United States Naval Station, Guantánamo Bay, Cuba.
Block on moving Guantánamo detainees to U.S. facilities (Section 412)
Why we flagged this
This bars spending to build or expand any U.S. facility to hold Guantánamo detainees. It keeps detainees from being moved to the United States. This is a big detention policy choice placed in an appropriations bill.
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None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available to the Department of Defense in this Act may be used to construct, renovate, or expand any facility in the United States, its territories, or possessions to house any individual detained at United States Naval Station, Guantánamo Bay, Cuba, for the purposes of detention or imprisonment in the custody or under the control of the Department of Defense.
Pornography filter on agency computer networks (Section 408)
Why we flagged this
Agencies must block viewing, downloading, or sharing of pornography on their networks. But the bill does not define pornography. Agencies must decide what counts. That vague term is tied to a network-wide filtering duty.
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None of the funds made available in this Act may be used to maintain or establish a computer network unless such network blocks the viewing, downloading, and exchanging of pornography.
Limit on VA reporting people to the federal gun background check system (Section 413)
Why we flagged this
The VA cannot report a veteran as a 'mental defective' for the federal gun background check system without a judge's order. A VA fiduciary finding alone is not enough. This changes who ends up on the federal firearms denial list. It is a major gun policy rider inside an appropriations bill.
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None of the funds made available by this Act may be used by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs under section 5502 of title 38, United States Code, in any case arising out of the administration by the Secretary of laws and benefits under such title, to report a person who is deemed mentally incapacitated, mentally incompetent, or to be experiencing an extended loss of consciousness as a person who has been adjudicated as a mental defective under subsection (d)(4) or (g)(4) of section 922 of title 18, United States Code, without the order or finding of a judge, magistrate, or other judicial authority of competent jurisdiction that such person is a danger to himself or herself or others.
Ban on VA contracts that limit talking to Congress (Section 241)
Why we flagged this
The VA cannot use settlement deals to stop people from speaking to Members of Congress. The bar is aimed at non-disclosure terms. The flip side raises questions under the First Amendment when applied to private settlement speech limits, though the section is designed to protect speech to Congress.
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None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available in this title may be used by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into an agreement related to resolving a dispute or claim with an individual that would restrict in any way the individual from speaking to Members of Congress or their staff on any topic not otherwise prohibited from disclosure by Federal law or required by Executive order to be kept secret in the interest of national defense or the conduct of foreign affairs.
Ban on IT equipment tied to listed Chinese entities (Section 256)
Why we flagged this
The VA cannot buy computers, printers, or video gear from companies on several U.S. watch lists tied to China. It also covers parent firms and third-party contracts. This is a broad supply-chain rule placed in a spending bill. It can affect many VA purchases.
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None of the funds appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for the Department of Veterans Affairs may be obligated, awarded, or expended to procure or purchase covered information technology equipment in cases where the manufacturer, bidder, or offeror, or any subsidiary or parent entity of the manufacturer, bidder, or offeror, of the equipment is an entity, or parent company of an entity listed on any of the following:
VA must stop using Social Security numbers to log people in (Section 237)
Why we flagged this
By September 30, 2027, the VA must stop using Social Security numbers to authenticate people in its systems. This is a major IT and privacy change. It will require new login systems across the VA. The cost and timeline are not detailed here.
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The Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Labor, shall discontinue collecting and using Social Security account numbers to authenticate individuals in all information systems of the Department of Veterans Affairs for all individuals not later than September 30, 2027.
U.S. share of NATO construction program (Title I, Security Investment Program)
Why we flagged this
The bill sends about $481 million to the NATO Security Investment Program. NATO decides which facilities get built under that shared program. U.S. funds flow into a multinational decision process. This is a routine NATO contribution, but it does place spending choices in an allied body.
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For the United States share of the cost of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program for the acquisition and construction of military facilities and installations (including international military headquarters) and for related expenses for the collective defense of the North Atlantic Treaty Area as authorized by section 2806 of title 10, United States Code, and Military Construction Authorization Acts, $481,832,000, to remain available until expended.
Spending hold tied to Secretary's testimony (Title II, General Administration)
Why we flagged this
One quarter of VA General Administration funds is locked until the Secretary testifies before Congress on the budget. This raises questions under the separation of powers, since it conditions executive spending on a specific appearance before Congress.
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That 25 percent of the funds made available under this heading shall not be available for obligation or expenditure until the Secretary of Veterans Affairs appears before the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress to testify on the President's budget request for fiscal year 2027.
Block on rule that changed VA special transport pay rates (Section 257)
Why we flagged this
For one year, the VA cannot enforce its 2023 rule on what it pays for special modes of transport for veterans. This effectively pauses a final agency rule through a spending bill. It changes payment rates outside the normal rulemaking process.
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During the period beginning on October 1, 2026 and ending on September 30, 2027, none of the funds made available by this Act may be used to administer, implement, or enforce the final rule issued by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs relating to "Change in Rates VA Pays for Special Modes of Transportation" (88 Fed. Reg. 10032) and published on February 16, 2023.
Limit on Executive branch hiring control over the Veterans Crisis Line (Section 232(b))
Why we flagged this
No funds may be used to enforce any Executive order that blocks the VA from filling Veterans Crisis Line jobs. This raises questions under the separation of powers, since it limits how the President can direct hiring in the executive branch.
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None of the funds made available by this Act may be used to enforce or otherwise carry out any Executive action that prohibits the Secretary of Veterans Affairs from appointing an individual to occupy a vacant civil service position, or establishing a new civil service position, at the Department of Veterans Affairs with respect to such a position relating to the hotline specified in subsection (a).
Section by section
Overall spending authorization for military construction and veterans affairs
This opening section sets up the entire bill. It states that specific dollar amounts will be taken from the U.S. Treasury. Those funds have not already been set aside for other uses. The money will pay for military construction projects and the Department of Veterans Affairs. It covers the budget year that runs from October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027. The rest of the bill spells out exactly how much goes to each program.
Who this affects
U.S. military facilities, veterans, and the agencies that serve them. Taxpayers fund the spending.
Tradeoff
Providing these funds supports military infrastructure and veteran services, but it draws from the general Treasury, adding to federal spending.
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That the following sums are appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2027, and for other purposes
Limits on cost-plus contracts for military construction
This section restricts how construction contracts can be structured. Specifically, it bars spending funds on 'cost-plus-a-fixed-fee' contracts. In that type of contract, the government pays all costs plus an extra set fee to the contractor. This restriction applies to construction jobs estimated over $25,000. It covers work done inside the United States, but not Alaska. There is one exception: the Secretary of Defense can approve such a contract by writing down the specific reasons for it.
Who this affects
Defense contractors bidding on military construction projects in the continental United States. The Secretary of Defense must review and approve any exceptions.
Tradeoff
The rule limits contractor payment arrangements that can reduce bidding competition, but it also adds an approval step that could slow some projects.
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None of the funds made available in this title shall be expended for payments under a cost-plus-a-fixed-fee contract for construction, where cost estimates exceed $25,000, to be performed within the United States, except Alaska, without the specific approval in writing of the Secretary of Defense setting forth the reasons therefor.
Passenger vehicle rental for construction projects
This section allows money set aside for military construction to also be used to rent passenger vehicles. Construction projects sometimes need workers or staff to travel between sites. This rule lets project managers use their construction funds for that purpose without needing a separate funding source.
Who this affects
Military construction project managers and staff who need transportation during construction work.
Tradeoff
It gives project managers more flexibility, but construction funds spent on vehicle rentals are no longer available for actual building work.
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Funds made available in this title for construction shall be available for hire of passenger motor vehicles.
Defense access road construction funding
This section allows military construction funds to be sent in advance to the Federal Highway Administration. The money pays for building roads that connect to military bases or defense sites. The roads must be certified as important to national defense by the Secretary of Defense. The legal authority for this comes from section 210 of title 23 of the U.S. Code.
Who this affects
The Federal Highway Administration receives the funds and manages the road construction. Communities near military installations may gain improved road access.
Tradeoff
Using military construction funds for access roads can improve defense readiness, but it directs those funds away from other possible military construction needs.
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Funds made available in this title for construction may be used for advances to the Federal Highway Administration, Department of Transportation, for the construction of access roads as authorized by section 210 of title 23, United States Code, when projects authorized therein are certified as important to the national defense by the Secretary of Defense.
No new military base construction without specific funding
This section blocks the use of any money from this part of the bill to start building new military bases inside the United States. The only way to begin such construction is if Congress has already approved a specific appropriation for it. This means the Defense Department cannot redirect general funds to start a new base project on its own.
Who this affects
The Department of Defense and the military services are affected. They cannot start new domestic base construction unless Congress separately approved money for that specific project.
Tradeoff
This limits executive branch flexibility to start new projects quickly, but it keeps Congress in control of where new military bases are built and how money is spent.
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None of the funds made available in this title may be used to begin construction of new bases in the United States for which specific appropriations have not been made.
Land purchase price cap for military construction
This section limits how much the military can pay for land or land easements. The price cannot exceed 100 percent of the value set by the Army Corps of Engineers or Naval Facilities Engineering Command. There are four exceptions. First, a federal court can set a different value. Second, the Attorney General can negotiate a different price. Third, the rule does not apply if the land is worth less than $25,000. Fourth, the Secretary of Defense can waive the cap if it is in the public interest.
Who this affects
Federal agencies buying land for military construction projects. It also affects landowners selling property to the military.
Tradeoff
The cap protects taxpayers from overpaying for land, but it could slow down purchases when sellers want more than the official appraised value.
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None of the funds made available in this title shall be used for purchase of land or land easements in excess of 100 percent of the value as determined by the Army Corps of Engineers or the Naval Facilities Engineering Command
Limits on family housing spending
This section blocks the use of funds from this bill for three specific activities related to military family housing. Those activities are buying land, preparing a site for construction, and installing utilities. The block applies unless funds for that housing were already approved in a separate annual military construction spending bill. In short, housing work can only move forward if Congress already set aside money for it through the normal military construction process.
Who this affects
Military families and the Defense Department offices that manage family housing projects. It affects any project that has not already received funding through a formal military construction bill.
Tradeoff
This rule keeps tighter control over how housing money is spent, but it could slow down or block housing projects that lack prior congressional approval.
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None of the funds made available in this title shall be used to: (1) acquire land; (2) provide for site preparation; or (3) install utilities for any family housing, except housing for which funds have been made available in annual Acts making appropriations for military construction.
Notification required before moving military activities between bases
This section limits how the military can use minor construction funds. Specifically, no minor construction money can be used to move any activity from one base or installation to another base or installation. Before any such move can happen, the military must notify both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees. This gives Congress a chance to review planned relocations before they take place.
Who this affects
Military branches and defense agencies planning construction projects that might involve moving operations between bases. It also affects Congress, which gains an oversight role.
Tradeoff
Congress gets more oversight of base relocations, but the notification requirement may slow down military decisions that depend on moving activities quickly.
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None of the funds made available in this title for minor construction may be used to transfer or relocate any activity from one base or installation to another, without prior notification to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress.
American steel competition requirement
This section blocks the use of any funds from this part of the bill if American steel producers, fabricators, or manufacturers were not given a chance to compete for the steel contract. In other words, before buying steel for a construction project, the project must open the bidding to U.S. steel companies. If that step is skipped, no money from this title can be spent on that steel purchase.
Who this affects
American steel producers, fabricators, and manufacturers who want to bid on military construction projects. It also affects contractors and project managers who must follow the bidding rules before buying steel.
Tradeoff
This rule supports U.S. steel industry competition, but it adds a required step to the procurement process that could slow purchasing or limit options if domestic suppliers cannot meet project needs.
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None of the funds made available in this title may be used for the procurement of steel for any construction project or activity for which American steel producers, fabricators, and manufacturers have been denied the opportunity to compete for such steel procurement.
No foreign property tax payments from military construction funds
This section blocks the Department of Defense from using military construction or family housing funds to pay property taxes to foreign governments. The ban applies for the current fiscal year. If a foreign country charges property taxes on U.S. military land or buildings, Defense cannot use these specific funds to cover that cost.
Who this affects
The Department of Defense and U.S. military installations located in foreign countries. Foreign governments that may levy property taxes on U.S. military facilities are also affected.
Tradeoff
This restriction keeps military construction funds from being spent on foreign tax bills, but it could complicate agreements with host nations that expect such payments.
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None of the funds available to the Department of Defense for military construction or family housing during the current fiscal year may be used to pay real property taxes in any foreign nation.
Notification required before starting new overseas military bases
This section blocks the use of any money from this part of the bill to start a new military installation outside the United States. Before any new overseas base can be started, Congress must be notified first. Specifically, both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees must receive that notification. No new base work can begin until that step is done.
Who this affects
The U.S. military and Defense Department planners who want to build new overseas installations. It also affects the congressional committees that oversee spending.
Tradeoff
Congress gains more oversight over new overseas bases, but military planners must wait for notification steps before moving forward.
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None of the funds made available in this title may be used to initiate a new installation overseas without prior notification to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress.
U.S. firm requirement for overseas architect and engineer contracts
This section limits how certain construction design contracts can be awarded overseas. If a project is in Japan, a NATO country, or a country bordering the Arabian Gulf, and the contract is expected to cost more than $500,000, the work must go to a U.S. firm. A U.S. firm partnering with a local firm from the host country is also allowed. This rule applies only to funds provided in this part of the bill.
Who this affects
U.S. and foreign architect and engineering firms that bid on military construction projects in Japan, NATO countries, or Arabian Gulf-bordering countries. It also affects military construction project managers who must follow these award rules.
Tradeoff
This rule keeps design contract dollars with U.S. firms, but it may limit competition and could raise costs compared to using local firms alone.
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None of the funds made available in this title may be obligated for architect and engineer contracts estimated by the Government to exceed $500,000 for projects to be accomplished in Japan, in any North Atlantic Treaty Organization member country, or in countries bordering the Arabian Gulf, unless such contracts are awarded to United States firms or United States firms in joint venture with host nation firms.
Limits on foreign contractors for military construction
This section blocks the use of funds for military construction projects in U.S. Pacific territories, Kwajalein Atoll, and Arabian Gulf countries from going to foreign contractors on contracts over $1 million. There are two exceptions. First, a foreign contractor can win the work if the lowest U.S. bid is more than 20 percent higher than the lowest foreign bid. Second, on Kwajalein Atoll specifically, a Marshallese contractor can win even without meeting that price gap rule.
Who this affects
Foreign and U.S. construction contractors bidding on military projects in the Pacific territories, Kwajalein Atoll, and Arabian Gulf countries. Marshallese contractors get special treatment on Kwajalein Atoll projects.
Tradeoff
Favoring U.S. contractors may support American workers and businesses, but it could raise project costs if foreign bids are lower.
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None of the funds made available in this title for military construction in the United States territories and possessions in the Pacific and on Kwajalein Atoll, or in countries bordering the Arabian Gulf, may be used to award any contract estimated by the Government to exceed $1,000,000 to a foreign contractor
Advance notice for military exercise construction spending
This section requires the Secretary of Defense to notify Congress before certain military exercises take place. The notice must come at least 30 days before the exercise begins. It applies when the exercise involves U.S. military personnel and when construction costs are expected to top $100,000. The notice must go to the relevant committees in both the House and the Senate, including the Appropriations Committees. Both temporary and permanent construction count toward the $100,000 threshold.
Who this affects
The Department of Defense must give the notice. Congressional committees receive it. U.S. military personnel participate in the exercises covered by the rule.
Tradeoff
Congress gets more visibility into military exercise spending, but the Pentagon must add a planning and reporting step before some exercises can begin.
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The Secretary of Defense shall inform the appropriate committees of both Houses of Congress, including the Committees on Appropriations, of plans and scope of any proposed military exercise involving United States personnel 30 days prior to its occurring, if amounts expended for construction, either temporary or permanent, are anticipated to exceed $100,000.
Reuse of older military construction funds
This section allows money that was set aside for military construction in earlier years to be spent on new construction projects. Those projects must be approved by Congress during the current session. In other words, unused older funds do not have to sit idle. They can be redirected to newly authorized building projects for each military branch.
Who this affects
The Department of Defense and its military branches. Taxpayers and military personnel benefit from or are affected by how construction funds are used.
Tradeoff
Reusing older funds can speed up new projects and avoid waste, but it also means Congress has less direct control over how those older funds were originally planned to be spent.
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Funds appropriated to the Department of Defense for construction in prior years shall be available for construction authorized for each such military department by the authorizations enacted into law during the current session of Congress.
Using expired funds to finish military construction projects
This section allows the military to use funds that have already expired to pay certain finishing costs on construction and housing projects. Those costs include supervision, inspection, overhead, engineering, and design work. It also covers any claims that come in after the project is done. Normally, expired funds cannot be spent. This section creates an exception so ongoing work is not stopped just because the original funding period ran out.
Who this affects
Military construction contractors, project managers, and military families living in housing tied to these projects.
Tradeoff
Projects can be completed without new funding, but expired money stays in use longer than standard budget rules allow.
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expired or lapsed funds may be used to pay the cost of associated supervision, inspection, overhead, engineering and design on those projects and on subsequent claims, if any.
Extended deadline to spend military construction funds
This section gives military departments and defense agencies more time to spend money set aside for construction projects. Normally, spending deadlines can be strict. Under this rule, those funds can be committed to a project at any point within four fiscal years after the year the money was first provided. Two conditions apply: the money must come from funds already set aside for military construction, and the total spent cannot exceed the original amount approved by Congress (plus any legally allowed cost increases).
Who this affects
Military departments and defense agencies planning or running construction projects. Contractors working on those projects may also be affected.
Tradeoff
Giving more time to commit funds adds flexibility for complex projects, but it also means money stays tied up longer before being spent or returned.
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any funds made available to a military department or defense agency for the construction of military projects may be obligated for a military construction project or contract, or for any portion of such a project or contract, at any time before the end of the fourth fiscal year after the fiscal year for which funds for such project were made available
Transferring funds for military housing improvement
This section lets the Secretary of Defense move money between military housing accounts. Specifically, money set aside for building family housing can be moved into the Department of Defense Family Housing Improvement Fund. Money set aside for building unaccompanied (single-service-member) housing can be moved into the Military Unaccompanied Housing Improvement Fund. Once moved, the money blends with existing fund money and follows the same rules. The Secretary must notify Congress 30 days before a transfer, or 14 days if the notice is sent electronically. The moved money can also be used to back direct loans or loan guarantees that help pay for building or improving military housing.
Who this affects
Active-duty military families and single service members who live in government housing. It also affects contractors and lenders involved in building or financing military housing.
Tradeoff
This gives the Pentagon flexibility to shift housing funds where they are needed most, but Congress gets only a short notice window and no formal approval vote before the transfer happens.
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Subject to 30 days prior notification, or 14 days for a notification provided in an electronic medium pursuant to sections 480 and 2883 of title 10, United States Code, to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress, such additional amounts as may be determined by the Secretary of Defense may be transferred to: (1) the Department of Defense Family Housing Improvement Fund from amounts appropriated for construction in Family Housing accounts...
Transfer of base closure funds for homeowner assistance
This section allows the Department of Defense to move money from its Base Closure Account into a separate fund. That fund pays for the Homeowners Assistance Program. That program helps people who own homes near military bases that are closing. Specifically, it covers costs under one part of the program: buying homes from qualifying homeowners who cannot sell them because of a base closure. Once moved, the transferred money blends into the receiving fund and follows that fund's rules for how long it can be used.
Who this affects
Homeowners who live near military bases that are being closed and who qualify for federal buyout assistance under the Homeowners Assistance Program.
Tradeoff
Moving money into this fund helps affected homeowners get paid for homes that are hard to sell, but it reduces funds available in the Base Closure Account for other base-closing costs.
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amounts may be transferred from the Department of Defense Base Closure Account to the fund established by section 1013(d) of the Demonstration Cities and Metropolitan Development Act of 1966 ( 42 U.S.C. 3374 ) to pay for expenses associated with the Homeowners Assistance Program incurred under 42 U.S.C. 3374(a)(1)(A)
Spending limits on general and flag officer housing
This section sets rules for spending on military family housing. It says that only the funds set aside in this title can be used to repair or maintain family housing, including homes for generals and admirals. No more than $20,000 per year may be spent on any one general or admiral's home without telling Congress 30 days in advance (or 14 days if the notice is sent electronically). There is one exception: if the limit is exceeded only because of unexpected environmental cleanup costs, the notice can be sent after the fact. The Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) must also report to Congress every year on how much was spent on each general or admiral's home during the prior year.
Who this affects
Military families living in base housing, and generals and admirals whose quarters are maintained with federal funds. Congress is also affected because it must receive advance notice and annual reports.
Tradeoff
The spending cap and notice requirement add oversight and limit costs, but they could slow urgent repairs if the approval process takes time.
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not more than $20,000 per unit may be spent annually for the maintenance and repair of any general or flag officer quarters without 30 days prior notification...to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress
Ford Island Improvement Account funds made available
This section makes the money already sitting in the Ford Island Improvement Account available to spend. Ford Island is a military installation in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The funds can be used for the purposes listed in federal law for that account, such as improving facilities on the island. The money stays available until it is fully spent or transferred as allowed by law. No new money is added here. This simply unlocks existing account balances so they can be used.
Who this affects
The U.S. Navy and the military personnel and operations based at Ford Island in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
Tradeoff
Making these funds available allows facility improvements to move forward, but the money comes from an existing account rather than new appropriations, so spending here reduces what remains in that account for future needs.
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Amounts contained in the Ford Island Improvement Account established by subsection (h) of section 2814 of title 10, United States Code, are appropriated and shall be available until expended for the purposes specified in subsection (i)(1) of such section or until transferred pursuant to subsection (i)(3) of such section.
Transfer of leftover military construction funds to foreign currency account
This section deals with unspent money from military construction and family housing accounts. After those accounts have closed and are no longer available for new spending, there is a 5-year window. During that window, if the Defense Department decides the leftover money is not needed to pay off any remaining bills, it can move those unspent funds into a special account called "Foreign Currency Fluctuations, Construction, Defense." Once moved, the money follows the rules and time limits of that new account.
Who this affects
The Department of Defense and its military construction and family housing programs. Taxpayers are affected because this determines how leftover funds are handled.
Tradeoff
Moving unused funds to the foreign currency account gives the Defense Department flexibility to cover exchange rate costs, but it removes those leftover dollars from their original construction and housing purposes.
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unobligated balances of such appropriations may be transferred into the appropriation Foreign Currency Fluctuations, Construction, Defense , to be merged with and to be available for the same time period and for the same purposes as the appropriation to which transferred.
Transferring funds within military construction accounts
This section allows money in military construction and family housing accounts to be moved between different projects or activities within the same account. However, those transfers must follow existing Defense Department rules. The rules it points to are from a 2021 Defense Department financial regulation called DoD Financial Management Regulation 7000.14-R, Volume 3, Chapter 7. Those rules set limits and procedures on how and when funds can be shifted.
Who this affects
The Department of Defense and military construction program managers who oversee base construction and housing projects.
Tradeoff
Allowing fund transfers gives the military flexibility to respond to changing needs, but it limits that flexibility by locking in rules from a 2021 regulation rather than allowing more open-ended movement of money.
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Amounts appropriated or otherwise made available in an account funded under the headings in this title may be transferred among projects and activities within the account in accordance with the reprogramming guidelines for military construction and family housing construction contained in Department of Defense Financial Management Regulation 7000.14–R, Volume 3, Chapter 7, of April 2021
Funding freeze for Arlington National Cemetery construction
This section blocks any money from this part of the bill from being used at Arlington National Cemetery. Specifically, no funds can go toward planning, designing, or building projects there. This applies only to the money provided in this title of the bill, not to any other funding sources.
Who this affects
Arlington National Cemetery and any contractors or agencies planning construction or design work there. Veterans and families who may benefit from cemetery improvements could also be affected.
Tradeoff
Preventing spending at Arlington may stop unwanted or low-priority projects, but it could also delay needed repairs or improvements at the cemetery.
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None of the funds made available in this title may be obligated or expended for planning and design and construction of projects at Arlington National Cemetery.
Extra military construction funding for unfunded priority projects
This section gives $500 million in extra money to the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Defense-Wide accounts for military construction. Each military branch gets $150 million, and a shared Defense-Wide pool gets $50 million. The money stays available until September 30, 2031. It can only be spent on projects that each military department listed as unfunded priorities for fiscal year 2027. Those projects must receive official authorization before any money is spent. Within 60 days of the bill becoming law, each branch must send Congress a plan explaining how it will spend these funds.
Who this affects
Military departments (Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force) and their construction programs. Congress receives spending plans and holds authorization power over the projects.
Tradeoff
The extra funding addresses construction projects the military could not fit into its regular budget, but spending is restricted to pre-approved priority lists and requires congressional authorization before work begins.
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such funds may only be obligated to carry out construction and cost to complete projects identified in the respective military department's unfunded priority list for fiscal year 2027 submitted to Congress
Immediate availability of military construction funds
This section says that once Congress passes a National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2027, the military construction money listed in that law becomes available right away. It covers construction funds for the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and other Defense-wide accounts. The money can be committed to contracts immediately for the full planned scope of each authorized project. Normally, funds may sit waiting before agencies can sign contracts. This removes that waiting period for these specific accounts.
Who this affects
Military branches and Defense agencies that plan and build facilities. Contractors who bid on military construction projects.
Tradeoff
Faster contract awards can speed up construction, but committing full contract amounts right away leaves less flexibility to adjust project scope if costs or needs change.
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All amounts appropriated to the Department of Defense—Military Construction, Army , Department of Defense—Military Construction, Navy and Marine Corps , Department of Defense—Military Construction, Air Force , and Department of Defense—Military Construction, Defense-Wide accounts pursuant to the authorization of appropriations in a National Defense Authorization Act specified for fiscal year 2027 in the funding table in section 4601 of that Act shall be immediately available and allotted to contract for the full scope of authorized projects.
Extended deadline for older military construction projects
This section gives the military extra time to spend money on certain construction projects. Normally, funds must be spent by a set deadline. This section allows funds from this bill or leftover funds from past bills to be used until October 1, 2028. The projects covered were approved in fiscal years 2017, 2018, 2019, or 2020. The projects must still have a valid authorization, or must have gotten a new authorization through a 2027 defense law. One limit applies: money that Congress previously labeled as emergency spending cannot be used this way.
Who this affects
Military branches and the Defense Department, specifically for older construction projects that have not yet been completed or funded. Taxpayers are also affected, since unspent federal funds are being carried forward.
Tradeoff
Allowing more time to spend these funds keeps older projects alive, but it also delays the return of unused money to the federal budget.
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funds made available in this Act or any available unobligated balances from prior appropriations Acts may be obligated before October 1, 2028 for fiscal year 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020 military construction projects for which project authorization has not lapsed
Military installation resilience design funding
This section adds $15 million total for design work related to making military bases more resilient. The Army, Navy and Marine Corps, and Air Force each receive $5 million. The money can be spent through September 30, 2031. Within 60 days of the law passing, the head of each military branch must send a spending plan to the congressional appropriations committees.
Who this affects
The Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force are directly affected. Congressional appropriations committees must receive and review the spending plans.
Tradeoff
The funding supports long-term base resilience design, but the money is tied to a reporting requirement that adds an oversight step before spending begins.
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the Secretary of the military department concerned, or their designee, shall submit to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress an expenditure plan for funds provided under this section.
Funding for child development center design on military bases
This section adds $45 million total for designing new child development centers on military bases. The Army, Navy and Marine Corps, and Air Force each receive $15 million. The money can be spent through September 30, 2031. Within 60 days of the law passing, each military branch must send Congress a plan explaining how it will spend its share of the funds.
Who this affects
Active-duty military families who use on-base child care. The Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force are responsible for carrying out the work.
Tradeoff
The funding expands child care capacity on military bases, but it covers design costs only and does not fund actual construction.
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For an additional amount for the accounts and in the amounts specified for design for child development centers, to remain available until September 30, 2031: Military Construction, Army , $15,000,000; Military Construction, Navy and Marine Corps , $15,000,000; and Military Construction, Air Force , $15,000,000
Funding for barracks design across military branches
This section gives extra money for designing new barracks. The Army, Navy and Marine Corps, and Air Force each get $15,000,000, for a total of $45,000,000. The money can be spent through September 30, 2031. Within 60 days of the law passing, each branch must send a spending plan to the congressional appropriations committees.
Who this affects
Soldiers, sailors, marines, and airmen who live in barracks. It also affects the military departments that must plan and report their spending.
Tradeoff
The funding sets aside $45,000,000 for barracks design, which could improve housing, but it requires each branch to submit a spending plan, adding a reporting step before work can move forward.
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For an additional amount for the accounts and in the amounts specified for design for barracks, to remain available until September 30, 2031: Military Construction, Army , $15,000,000; Military Construction, Navy and Marine Corps , $15,000,000; and Military Construction, Air Force , $15,000,000
Extra funds for tearing down unneeded military buildings
This section gives $60 million in extra money for demolition work at military bases. The Army, Navy and Marine Corps, and Air Force each get $20 million. The money can be spent through September 30, 2031. Within 60 days of the law passing, each military branch must send Congress a plan showing how it will spend its share.
Who this affects
The Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force are affected. Military base communities may also be affected if old buildings on bases are torn down.
Tradeoff
The extra money allows faster removal of old or unsafe buildings, but Congress must trust each branch to spend it wisely based on a spending plan submitted after the funds are already approved.
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Military Construction, Army , $20,000,000; Military Construction, Navy and Marine Corps , $20,000,000; and Military Construction, Air Force , $20,000,000: Provided , That not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the military department concerned, or their designee, shall submit to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress an expenditure plan for funds provided under this section.
Ban on closing Guantánamo Bay Naval Station
This section blocks any money from this bill being used to close or reorganize the U.S. Naval Station at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba. No funds can pay for planning, studies, or actions that would shut the base down or move its functions elsewhere. The restriction lasts for the fiscal year covered by this spending bill.
Who this affects
The Department of Defense and any agency that might plan or carry out a base closure. It also affects personnel and operations currently based at Guantánamo Bay.
Tradeoff
The restriction keeps the naval station open and funded, but it also prevents decision-makers from using these funds to study or act on any future closure or reorganization, even if conditions changed.
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None of the funds made available by this Act may be used to carry out the closure or realignment of the United States Naval Station, Guantánamo Bay, Cuba.
Transfers between veterans benefit accounts
This section lets the Department of Veterans Affairs move money between three specific budget accounts for fiscal year 2027. Those accounts cover compensation and pensions, readjustment benefits, and veterans insurance. Before any transfer can happen, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs must ask both House and Senate Appropriations Committees for permission. The transfer can go forward if the committees approve it. It can also go forward if 30 days pass with no response from the committees.
Who this affects
Veterans receiving benefits such as disability compensation, pensions, education benefits, or life insurance. It also affects the Department of Veterans Affairs and congressional oversight committees.
Tradeoff
The transfer authority gives the VA flexibility to cover shortfalls in one account with funds from another, but it also requires congressional notice and a waiting period that could slow the response to urgent funding needs.
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before a transfer may take place, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall request from the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress the authority to make the transfer and such Committees issue an approval, or absent a response, a period of 30 days has elapsed.
Veterans Affairs medical funding transfers
This section lets the Department of Veterans Affairs move money between four medical budget accounts in fiscal year 2027. The accounts are Medical Services, Medical Community Care, Medical Support and Compliance, and Medical Facilities. No more than 3 percent of total funds can be moved. No single account can grow by more than 3 percent from these transfers. Before any money moves, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs must notify both House and Senate Appropriations Committees in writing. The transfer can only happen after both committees approve it. This transfer authority is on top of any other transfer powers already allowed by law.
Who this affects
The Department of Veterans Affairs and its medical programs are directly affected. Veterans who use VA medical services could be affected if funding shifts between care types.
Tradeoff
Allowing transfers gives the VA flexibility to move money where it is needed most, but the 3 percent cap and required congressional approval limit how much the department can act on its own.
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Not to exceed 3 percent of amounts made available for the Department of Veterans Affairs for fiscal year 2027...may be transferred among the accounts: Provided, That no such account shall be increased by more than 3 percent...only upon written notification from the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress...and subsequent approval from the Committees on Appropriations of both House of Congress
Allowed uses of salaries and expenses funds
This section lists what the Department of Veterans Affairs can spend its salaries and expenses money on. It covers hiring outside experts on short-term contracts. It also covers renting passenger vehicles, leasing buildings or land, and buying uniforms or paying uniform allowances for employees. Each of these uses is tied to existing federal law that sets the rules for how the spending must happen.
Who this affects
Department of Veterans Affairs employees and managers who oversee day-to-day operations and spending.
Tradeoff
Allowing flexible spending on vehicles, leases, and uniforms supports operations, but it also broadens the ways appropriated funds can be used beyond direct pay.
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Appropriations available in this title for salaries and expenses shall be available for services authorized by section 3109 of title 5, United States Code; hire of passenger motor vehicles; lease of a facility or land or both; and uniforms or allowances therefore
Restriction on buying land for new VA hospitals or homes
This section blocks the Department of Veterans Affairs from using most of its funds to buy land for a new hospital or home. The only money that can be used for that purpose comes from two specific accounts: Construction, Major Projects and Construction, Minor Projects. All other VA funds in this title cannot pay for a new building site.
Who this affects
The Department of Veterans Affairs and any project that would require buying new land for a hospital or veterans home.
Tradeoff
This limits how VA money can be spent on new facilities, keeping land purchases tied to dedicated construction budgets rather than other VA funds.
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No appropriations in this title (except the appropriations for Construction, Major Projects and Construction, Minor Projects ) shall be available for the purchase of any site for or toward the construction of any new hospital or home.
Reimbursement required for non-veteran VA healthcare
This section limits who can receive VA healthcare using funds from this bill. Only veterans with legal benefit eligibility can receive free care. Federal employees covered under specific workplace injury laws and disaster victims under the Stafford Act are also allowed. Anyone else who receives VA medical treatment or exams must pay back the full cost. The repayment goes into the VA's Medical Services account. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs sets the rates for that repayment.
Who this affects
Veterans with healthcare benefits are not affected and keep their access. Non-veterans who receive VA care must reimburse the VA, unless they qualify under federal worker injury rules or disaster relief law.
Tradeoff
This rule protects VA healthcare funds for eligible veterans, but it requires full cost repayment from others who use VA facilities, which could limit access for people in unusual circumstances.
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No appropriations in this title shall be available for healthcare treatment or examination of any persons (except beneficiaries entitled to such treatment or examination under the laws providing such benefits to veterans...unless reimbursement of the cost of such treatment or examination is made to the Medical Services account at such rates as may be fixed by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
Payment of prior year veteran benefit obligations
This section allows three veteran benefit funds to pay off bills from a prior year. The three funds are Compensation and Pensions, Readjustment Benefits, and Veterans Insurance and Indemnities. Sometimes costs are recorded in one year but paid in the next. This section makes sure money set aside in the new budget can cover those leftover bills from the last quarter of fiscal year 2026.
Who this affects
Veterans and their families who receive compensation, pension, education, or insurance payments from the Department of Veterans Affairs. It also affects the VA staff who process and record these payments.
Tradeoff
This provision lets the government catch up on unpaid obligations, but it means new appropriations money is used to cover costs that were logged in a prior budget period.
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Appropriations available in this title for Compensation and Pensions , Readjustment Benefits , and Veterans Insurance and Indemnities shall be available for payment of prior year accrued obligations required to be recorded by law against the corresponding prior year accounts within the last quarter of fiscal year 2026.
Payment of prior year obligations
This section says that money in this bill can be used to pay old unpaid bills from prior years. Those old bills come from specific federal laws about when payments expire or lapse. There is one exception: if the old unpaid bill comes from a trust fund account, it can only be paid using money from the Compensation and Pensions fund for veterans.
Who this affects
Federal agencies funded in this bill, particularly the Department of Veterans Affairs. Veterans who receive compensation and pension payments may also be affected if trust fund obligations arise.
Tradeoff
Allowing current-year funds to cover old unpaid bills gives agencies flexibility to settle past debts, but it reduces the money available for new spending in the current year.
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if such obligations are from trust fund accounts they shall be payable only from Compensation and Pensions
Veterans life insurance fund reimbursement for admin costs
This section lets the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) pay its own administrative costs using money from three veterans life insurance funds. The funds covered are the National Service Life Insurance Fund, the Veterans' Special Life Insurance Fund, and the U.S. Government Life Insurance Fund. The VA can only use surplus earnings from each fund, meaning money left over after paying claims and setting aside required reserves. If a fund's surplus is smaller than the admin costs, the VA can only take what the surplus allows. The VA Secretary must figure out how much of the admin cost belongs to each insurance program, including any disability income insurance inside it. This rule applies only during fiscal year 2027.
Who this affects
Veterans who hold life insurance policies through these three VA-managed funds. It also affects VA administrative operations and budgeting.
Tradeoff
Using surplus insurance fund earnings to cover admin costs keeps those expenses off the general budget, but it reduces money that could otherwise go back to policyholders as dividends.
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reimbursement shall be made only from the surplus earnings accumulated in such an insurance program during fiscal year 2027 that are available for dividends in that program after claims have been paid and actuarially determined reserves have been set aside
Enhanced-use lease reimbursement funds
When the Department of Veterans Affairs leases its property to outside parties, it earns money from those leases. Sometimes another VA account paid costs related to setting up or managing those leases in a prior year. This section lets the VA take money from current lease earnings to pay back that account. The repaid money does not expire at the end of a fiscal year. It stays available until it is fully spent.
Who this affects
The Department of Veterans Affairs and its internal budget accounts. Taxpayers are indirectly affected because this controls how VA lease money is tracked and used.
Tradeoff
Allowing these funds to carry over indefinitely gives the VA more flexibility to recover past costs, but it also means the money stays outside the normal annual budget review process.
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Amounts deducted from enhanced-use lease proceeds to reimburse an account for expenses incurred by that account during a prior fiscal year for providing enhanced-use lease services shall be available until expended.
Reimbursement for VA workplace dispute offices
This section lets three VA offices get paid back for the services they provide. The three offices handle workplace discrimination complaints, dispute resolution, and related employment issues. Other VA offices that use these services pay them at cost. The payment caps are $85,691,000 for the Office of Resolution Management, $8,807,000 for the Office of Employment Discrimination Complaint Adjudication, and $4,742,026 for the Alternative Dispute Resolution function. Payments can be made in advance based on estimated costs. Any money received goes back into the General Administration and Information Technology Systems accounts.
Who this affects
VA employees who file workplace complaints and the VA offices that handle those complaints. It also affects VA budget managers who must pay these offices for their services.
Tradeoff
This approach makes costs visible by charging offices directly for dispute services, but it adds internal billing steps that require tracking and advance payments.
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Funds available in this title or funds for salaries and other administrative expenses shall also be available to reimburse the Office of Resolution Management, the Office of Employment Discrimination Complaint Adjudication, and the Alternative Dispute Resolution function within the Office of Human Resources and Administration for all services provided at rates which will recover actual costs but not to exceed $85,691,000 for the Office of Resolution Management, $8,807,000 for the Office of Employment Discrimination Complaint Adjudication, and $4,742,026 for the Alternative Dispute Resolution function
Veterans must share insurance information to receive VA care for non-military injuries
This section says the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) cannot pay for hospital care, nursing home care, or medical services for a veteran's injury or illness that is not connected to their military service, unless that veteran first tells the VA about any private insurance or other third-party coverage they have. The VA uses that information to bill the outside insurer and recover costs. If a veteran does not share this information, the VA can try to collect the cost of that care from the veteran directly, the same way any other federal debt is collected. Any money the VA recovers this way can be used by the VA in the same year it is received, even if the care happened in an earlier budget year.
Who this affects
Veterans who receive VA medical care for conditions not caused or worsened by their military service and who also have private health insurance or other third-party coverage.
Tradeoff
This rule helps the VA recover costs from outside insurers, but veterans who forget or refuse to report their insurance information can be billed personally for the full cost of their care.
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No funds of the Department of Veterans Affairs shall be available for hospital care, nursing home care, or medical services provided to any person under chapter 17 of title 38, United States Code, for a non-service-connected disability described in section 1729(a)(2) of such title, unless that person has disclosed to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in such form as the Secretary may require, current, accurate third-party reimbursement information
VA lease revenue used for construction projects
This section lets the Department of Veterans Affairs put money from enhanced-use leases into its construction accounts. Enhanced-use leasing is when the VA allows a private party to use VA-owned land or buildings in exchange for payment or services. The money collected from those deals can then pay for building, buying, fixing, or improving VA medical facilities. This lease revenue is on top of whatever Congress already set aside for construction. The section overrides any other law that might otherwise restrict how that money is used.
Who this affects
Veterans who use VA medical facilities may see construction funded by lease revenue. Private companies that lease VA land or buildings are the source of those funds.
Tradeoff
This gives the VA more flexibility to fund construction without extra congressional action, but it reduces direct congressional control over how lease proceeds are spent.
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proceeds or revenues derived from enhanced-use leasing activities (including disposal) may be deposited into the Construction, Major Projects and Construction, Minor Projects accounts and be used for construction (including site acquisition and disposition), alterations, and improvements of any medical facility under the jurisdiction or for the use of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Veterans medical funds for recreation and burial costs
This section says that money set aside for VA Medical Services can be used for two specific purposes. First, it can pay for recreational items and activities for patients. Second, it can cover funeral and burial costs for veterans who die while receiving care at a VA facility. These uses are in addition to standard medical care costs.
Who this affects
Veterans receiving care at Department of Veterans Affairs facilities. It also affects the families of veterans who die while under VA care.
Tradeoff
Allowing medical funds to cover recreation and burial costs gives the VA flexibility to support patients fully, but it also means those dollars are not spent on direct medical treatment.
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Amounts made available under Medical Services are available— (1) for furnishing recreational facilities, supplies, and equipment; and (2) for funeral expenses, burial expenses, and other expenses incidental to funerals and burials for beneficiaries receiving care in the Department.
Transfer of collected medical fees to VA care accounts
This section lets the Department of Veterans Affairs move money it collects from insurance companies and other payers into two spending accounts. Those accounts pay for medical services and community care for veterans. The money can stay in those accounts and be spent until it runs out, with no set deadline.
Who this affects
Veterans who receive VA medical care. The VA itself manages these funds.
Tradeoff
Allowing collected funds to be spent without a time limit gives the VA more flexibility, but it also reduces Congress's direct control over when and how that money is used.
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Such sums as may be deposited into the Medical Care Collections Fund pursuant to section 1729A of title 38, United States Code, may be transferred to the Medical Services and Medical Community Care accounts to remain available until expended for the purposes of these accounts.
Healthcare access for veterans in rural Alaska
This section lets the Secretary of Veterans Affairs make agreements with certain health centers and tribal organizations in Alaska. Those partners can then provide healthcare to veterans living in rural parts of the state. The care can include behavioral health and dental services. Veterans and the facilities that serve them must follow rules set by the Secretary. For this section, 'rural Alaska' means anywhere outside the city of Anchorage and the Fairbanks North Star Borough.
Who this affects
Veterans living in rural Alaska, Federally Qualified Health Centers in Alaska, and Alaska Native tribal organizations that are part of the Alaska Native Health Compact with the Indian Health Service.
Tradeoff
More veterans in remote Alaska could get healthcare closer to home, but the program depends on the Secretary choosing to enter agreements and setting rules that facilities must meet.
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The Secretary of Veterans Affairs may enter into agreements with Federally Qualified Health Centers in the State of Alaska and Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations which are party to the Alaska Native Health Compact with the Indian Health Service, to provide healthcare, including behavioral health and dental care, to veterans in rural Alaska.
Veterans Affairs Capital Asset Fund transfers to construction accounts
This section allows money deposited into the Department of Veterans Affairs Capital Asset Fund to be moved into two construction accounts. Those accounts pay for major and minor building projects at VA facilities. The funds can be spent at any time, with no expiration date.
Who this affects
The Department of Veterans Affairs and the facilities it builds or repairs. Veterans who use VA facilities may be indirectly affected.
Tradeoff
Allowing flexible transfers gives the VA more spending options for construction, but it also reduces Congress's direct control over how those specific funds are used.
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Such sums as may be deposited into the Department of Veterans Affairs Capital Asset Fund pursuant to section 8118 of title 38, United States Code, may be transferred to the Construction, Major Projects and Construction, Minor Projects accounts, to remain available until expended for the purposes of these accounts.
Quarterly financial report for Veterans Affairs
This section requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to send a financial status report to Congress every quarter. The report must be submitted within 30 days after each quarter ends. At a minimum, the report must include the same details that were required under an earlier law, Public Law 114-223, in its section on quarterly reporting for General Administration.
Who this affects
The Department of Veterans Affairs must produce and submit these reports. The congressional Appropriations Committees in both the House and Senate receive them.
Tradeoff
Regular reporting gives Congress more visibility into VA finances, but it also requires VA staff time to prepare the reports each quarter.
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Not later than 30 days after the end of each fiscal quarter, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall submit to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress a report on the financial status of the Department of Veterans Affairs for the preceding quarter
VA budget transfers to and from IT systems account
This section lets the Department of Veterans Affairs move money between its main operating accounts and its Information Technology Systems account during fiscal year 2027. The transfers can go in either direction. However, the total amount added to the IT account cannot grow by more than 10 percent above what this law originally set. Before any transfer can happen, the VA Secretary must ask both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees for permission. The transfer can only proceed after those committees give their approval.
Who this affects
The Department of Veterans Affairs and its programs, including medical services, benefits, cemeteries, and IT operations. Taxpayers and veterans who rely on these services are also affected.
Tradeoff
This gives the VA flexibility to shift funds where they are needed most, but it limits large shifts into IT and requires Congress to approve each transfer before it happens.
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such transfers may not result in a more than 10 percent aggregate increase in the total amount made available by this Act for the Information Technology Systems account
Shared military and veterans medical facilities funding
This section allows the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to move up to $710,778,000 in 2027 into a shared fund with the Department of Defense. That fund pays for medical facilities used by both the military and veterans. The money can come from several VA budget areas, including medical services, medical facilities, and technology systems. The VA Secretary can move extra money into the fund beyond that cap, but must first notify both chambers' appropriations committees in writing. The section also cancels a prior law provision from Public Law 119-37.
Who this affects
Veterans and active-duty military personnel who use combined federal medical facilities. VA and Defense Department staff who operate those shared sites.
Tradeoff
Pooling funds lets both agencies share medical facilities and cut costs, but it moves VA money away from VA-only programs and reduces direct congressional oversight of how much is transferred.
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up to $710,778,000, plus reimbursements, may be transferred to the Joint Department of Defense—Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Facility Demonstration Fund
Shared military and veterans medical facility funding
This section allows the Department of Veterans Affairs to move up to $760,767,000 from four of its medical accounts into a shared fund. That fund is run jointly by the VA and the Department of Defense. The money pays for the daily operation of medical facilities that both military members and veterans use together. Extra money beyond that cap can also be moved into the fund, but only after the VA Secretary gives written notice to the congressional appropriations committees in both the House and Senate.
Who this affects
Veterans and active-duty military members who receive care at joint VA and Defense Department medical facilities. The VA and Defense Department are also directly affected as they share responsibility for running those facilities.
Tradeoff
Combining resources can lower costs and broaden care options at shared sites, but it also moves VA medical dollars into a jointly controlled fund, which reduces the VA's sole control over how that money is spent.
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up to $760,767,000, plus reimbursements, may be transferred to the Joint Department of Defense—Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Facility Demonstration Fund
Shared military and VA hospital funding rules
This section deals with money collected at medical facilities that both the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs share. When those shared facilities collect payments for healthcare, that money can be moved into a special joint fund. It can also be spent directly on running those shared facilities. One extra rule is added: once money is moved into the joint fund, it does not expire at the end of a budget year. It stays available until it is fully spent.
Who this affects
Veterans and active-duty military members who receive care at facilities run jointly by the VA and the Department of Defense. Staff and administrators at those shared medical facilities are also affected.
Tradeoff
Letting the funds carry over without expiring gives the facilities more spending flexibility, but it also means the money stays outside the normal annual budget review process.
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amounts transferred to the Joint Department of Defense—Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Facility Demonstration Fund shall remain available until expended.
VA and Defense Department health care cost-sharing fund
This section requires at least $15 million to be moved into a shared fund used by both the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense. The money comes from existing VA medical budget accounts. Once transferred, the funds stay available until spent. They can be used for any joint health care activity the law already allows, such as sharing facilities, staff, or services between the two departments.
Who this affects
Veterans and active-duty military members who receive care at facilities shared by the VA and the Defense Department. Taxpayers fund both departments.
Tradeoff
Moving money into the shared fund can improve coordination between the two departments, but it reduces the flexible funds available within each separate VA medical account.
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a minimum of $15,000,000 shall be transferred to the DOD–VA Health Care Sharing Incentive Fund, as authorized by section 8111(d) of title 38, United States Code, to remain available until expended
Protect current diabetes supply contracting system for veterans
This section blocks the Department of Veterans Affairs from spending money to replace its current system for buying diabetes monitoring supplies. Right now, regional networks within the VA called Veterans Integrated Service Networks choose and contract for these supplies on their own. This section keeps that regional process in place. The ban applies to funds from this bill and from any other law.
Who this affects
Veterans who use VA-provided diabetes monitoring supplies and equipment. It also affects the VA offices and regional networks that manage those contracts.
Tradeoff
Keeping the regional contracting system gives local networks flexibility, but it may prevent the VA from switching to a national system that could lower costs or standardize care.
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None of the funds available to the Department of Veterans Affairs, in this or any other Act, may be used to replace the current system by which the Veterans Integrated Service Networks select and contract for diabetes monitoring supplies and equipment.
Veterans Affairs construction bid savings reporting
This section requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to tell Congress when a major construction project saves money on bids. The savings must be at least $5 million or 5 percent of the project's planned cost, whichever amount is smaller. The Secretary must report this within 14 days of signing a contract. Before spending those savings, the Secretary must give Congress 14 days' notice and explain how the money will be used.
Who this affects
The Department of Veterans Affairs and the congressional committees that oversee spending. Taxpayers are indirectly affected because it tracks how saved construction money is spent.
Tradeoff
Congress gains more oversight over unspent construction funds, but the VA must meet new reporting deadlines that add administrative steps.
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The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall notify the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress of all bid savings in a major construction project that total at least $5,000,000, or 5 percent of the programmed amount of the project, whichever is less
Limit on expanding major construction project scope
This section blocks VA major construction funds from being used to expand a project beyond what was originally described to Congress. If the VA wants to make a project bigger or broader, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs must first get approval from the Appropriations Committees in both the House and the Senate. The rule applies only to large construction projects, not smaller ones.
Who this affects
The Department of Veterans Affairs and its major construction projects. Congress also plays a direct role, since both chambers must approve any scope change.
Tradeoff
This keeps Congress informed and in control of how construction money is spent, but it adds extra steps if the VA needs to adjust a project's size or goals.
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None of the funds made available for Construction, Major Projects may be used for a project in excess of the scope specified for that project in the original justification data provided to the Congress as part of the request for appropriations unless the Secretary of Veterans Affairs receives approval from the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress.
Quarterly reporting on veterans benefits claims
This section requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to send a report to Congress every quarter, within 30 days after each quarter ends. The report must include performance data from every Veterans Benefits Administration Regional Office. At minimum, it must follow the reporting guidance set in an earlier law (Public Law 114-223) about the disability claims backlog. The report must also show how many appeals are waiting to be decided, both at the Veterans Benefits Administration and at the Board of Veterans Appeals.
Who this affects
Veterans who have filed disability claims or appeals with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Congress also receives the reports for oversight purposes.
Tradeoff
Regular reporting creates more transparency about claims backlogs and wait times, but it adds an ongoing administrative task for the Department of Veterans Affairs each quarter.
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Not later than 30 days after the end of each fiscal quarter, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall submit to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress a quarterly report containing performance measures and data from each Veterans Benefits Administration Regional Office
Congress notice before VA reorganizations
This section requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to give written notice to the House and Senate Appropriations Committees before making certain staffing changes. Specifically, the Secretary must notify Congress at least 15 days in advance whenever a reorganization would move 25 or more full-time employees from one part of the Department of Veterans Affairs to another. This gives Congress a window to review the change before it happens.
Who this affects
The Department of Veterans Affairs and its employees. Congressional Appropriations Committees also receive a role in oversight.
Tradeoff
Congress gains earlier awareness of large internal staffing shifts, but the VA must plan reorganizations at least 15 days ahead to meet the notice requirement.
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The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall provide written notification to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress 15 days prior to organizational changes which result in the transfer of 25 or more full-time equivalents from one organizational unit of the Department of Veterans Affairs to another.
Quarterly reporting on large VA marketing campaigns
This section requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to notify Congress every quarter about any single national outreach or awareness marketing campaign that costs more than $1 million. The notification goes to the Appropriations Committees in both the House and the Senate. This creates a regular reporting requirement so Congress can track how the VA spends money on large public campaigns.
Who this affects
The Department of Veterans Affairs must file these reports. Members of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees receive them.
Tradeoff
Congress gains more visibility into VA marketing spending, but the VA must take on the added work of tracking and reporting these costs each quarter.
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The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall provide on a quarterly basis to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress notification of any single national outreach and awareness marketing campaign in which obligations exceed $1,000,000.
VA Medical Services emergency transfer authority
This section lets the Secretary of Veterans Affairs move money into the Veterans Health Administration's Medical Services account during fiscal year 2027. The Secretary can shift up to 3 percent of most VA discretionary funds. This can only happen if the need is a higher priority than what the money was originally meant for. Congress must not have already said no to the item being funded. Emergency funds set aside by Congress cannot be moved. If the transferred money turns out not to be needed, it must go back to its original account. Before any transfer happens, the Secretary must notify both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees in writing and get their approval.
Who this affects
Veterans who rely on VA health care services may be affected, since this controls how quickly the VA can shift funds to meet urgent medical needs. VA administrators and Congress are also involved in approving any transfers.
Tradeoff
This gives the VA flexibility to respond quickly to urgent health care needs, but it requires Congressional approval before funds can move, which could slow the response.
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the Secretary of Veterans Affairs must provide written notification of the amount and purpose of the transfer and subsequent approval from the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress.
Transferring funds between Veterans Affairs accounts
This section lets the Department of Veterans Affairs move money between two accounts in fiscal year 2027. Those two accounts are the Board of Veterans Appeals and the General Operating Expenses for the Veterans Benefits Administration. The transfer is not automatic. Before any money moves, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs must ask both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees for permission. The transfer can only happen after both committees approve the request.
Who this affects
The Department of Veterans Affairs and the congressional committees that oversee its budget. Veterans who rely on appeals decisions or benefits processing could be indirectly affected if funds shift between these offices.
Tradeoff
Allowing transfers gives the department budget flexibility, but requiring committee approval before each transfer keeps Congress informed and in control of how the money is used.
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before a transfer may take place, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall request from the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress the authority to make the transfer and receive approval of that request.
Limit on moving construction funds without approval
This section limits how the Secretary of Veterans Affairs can move money between major construction projects. If the total amount moved exceeds $7 million, the Secretary must first get approval from the House and Senate Appropriations Committees. Without that approval, the Secretary cannot shift funds beyond that limit.
Who this affects
The Department of Veterans Affairs and the congressional committees that oversee its budget. Veterans and others who depend on VA construction projects may also be affected if projects are delayed or changed.
Tradeoff
This rule gives Congress more control over VA construction spending, but it may slow the Department's ability to respond quickly to changing construction needs.
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The Secretary of Veterans Affairs may not reprogram funds among major construction projects or programs if such instance of reprogramming will exceed a cumulative $7,000,000, unless such reprogramming is approved by the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress.
Veterans suicide hotline staffing and study
This section covers the Veterans Affairs (VA) suicide hotline. It requires the hotline to connect callers right away with a trained professional. The hotline must also meet all standards set by the American Association of Suicidology. No money from this law can be used to enforce any order that would stop the VA from hiring staff or filling open positions tied to the hotline. This applies to orders from the President or any agency directive. The VA must also study how well the hotline worked from 2016 to 2021. That study must count how many veterans called, how many got follow-up or mental health care, and how many who did not get continuing care later died by suicide or made an attempt.
Who this affects
Veterans who use or may use the VA suicide hotline. VA staff and hiring officers who manage hotline positions.
Tradeoff
Protecting hotline staffing from hiring freezes helps keep the service running, but it limits how much the executive branch can control VA workforce decisions.
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None of the funds made available by this Act may be used to enforce or otherwise carry out any Executive action that prohibits the Secretary of Veterans Affairs from appointing an individual to occupy a vacant civil service position, or establishing a new civil service position, at the Department of Veterans Affairs with respect to such a position relating to the hotline specified in subsection (a).
Breast cancer screening guidance requirement
This section says that from October 1, 2018, through January 1, 2028, no money given to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can be spent in a way that goes against a specific breast cancer screening guidance. That guidance was published on May 10, 2017, by the VA's National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. In other words, the VA must follow that 2017 guidance when making breast cancer screening decisions for veterans.
Who this affects
Veterans who receive health care through the VA and may be screened for breast cancer. VA health providers must follow the 2017 guidance when offering or recommending screenings.
Tradeoff
Locking the VA to a 2017 guidance ensures consistency, but it also limits the VA's ability to update its screening practices if medical evidence changes before 2028.
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none of the funds made available to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs by this or any other Act may be obligated or expended in contravention of the Veterans Health Administration Clinical Preventive Services Guidance Statement on the Veterans Health Administration's Screening for Breast Cancer Guidance published on May 10, 2017
Fertility treatment and adoption help for injured veterans
This section lets the Department of Veterans Affairs use its Medical Services funds for two purposes. First, it can pay for fertility counseling and assisted reproductive technology for veterans whose service-connected disability prevents them from having children without medical help. Their spouses can also receive this care. Second, it can reimburse veterans for adoption costs, following the same rules and dollar limits the Department of Defense uses for its employees. Embryo freezing and storage are covered with no time limit. A 2018 federal law restricting certain uses of these funds still applies.
Who this affects
Veterans with a service-connected disability that prevents them from having children without fertility treatment, and their spouses. Veterans who choose to adopt are also affected.
Tradeoff
More veterans can access fertility and adoption benefits, but the funds come from the existing VA Medical Services budget, which could affect money available for other medical care.
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the amounts appropriated or otherwise made available to the Department of Veterans Affairs for the Medical Services account may be used to provide— (1) fertility counseling and treatment using assisted reproductive technology to a covered veteran or the spouse of a covered veteran; or (2) adoption reimbursement to a covered veteran.
Veterans Affairs spending limits on health care capacity
This section blocks the Department of Veterans Affairs from spending any money in ways that conflict with two existing laws. The first is a 2006 spending law that set rules on VA health care resources. The second is a section of federal veterans law that limits how the VA manages its medical facility capacity. In short, the VA must follow those two older rules when using any funds, from this bill or any other source.
Who this affects
The Department of Veterans Affairs and its leadership. Veterans who use VA health care facilities may also be indirectly affected if these rules shape how the VA runs its medical centers.
Tradeoff
This provision keeps existing rules in place, which limits VA flexibility to shift resources but also provides a legal guardrail against changes that Congress previously decided to restrict.
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None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act or any other Act for the Department of Veterans Affairs may be used in a manner that is inconsistent with: (1) section 842 of the Transportation, Treasury, Housing and Urban Development, the Judiciary, the District of Columbia, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2006 ( Public Law 109–115 ; 119 Stat. 2506); or (2) section 8110(a)(5) of title 38, United States Code.
Tribal and Native Hawaiian contracting exemption for VA functions
Section 842 of Public Law 109-115 normally restricts the Department of Veterans Affairs from moving certain jobs to outside contractors. This section creates an exception to that rule. The exception applies when the contractor is a business that is at least 51 percent owned by one or more federally recognized Indian Tribes or Native Hawaiian Organizations. The three VA divisions covered are the Veterans Health Administration, the Veterans Benefits Administration, and the National Cemetery Administration. If those ownership conditions are met, the VA can transfer work to such a business without the usual restrictions.
Who this affects
VA employees whose jobs could be shifted to outside contractors are affected. Tribal and Native Hawaiian-owned businesses seeking VA contracts are also affected.
Tradeoff
This provision may create more contracting opportunities for Tribal and Native Hawaiian businesses, but it also reduces job protections for VA workers in the affected divisions.
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Section 842 of Public Law 109–115 shall not apply to conversion of an activity or function of the Veterans Health Administration, Veterans Benefits Administration, or National Cemetery Administration to contractor performance by a business concern that is at least 51 percent owned by one or more Indian Tribes
Phasing out Social Security numbers for veteran identity verification
This section tells the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to stop using Social Security numbers to verify who someone is inside its computer systems by September 30, 2027. After that date, the VA can still use a Social Security number in four narrow cases: when it needs to get or share information with a system outside the VA, when a law or court order requires it, when it is trying to prevent fraud, or when no other way to identify a person exists. This rule replaces an earlier version of the same requirement from a prior law.
Who this affects
Veterans, their family members, and other individuals whose information is stored in VA systems. VA staff who manage those systems will also need to change how they identify people.
Tradeoff
Reducing Social Security number use lowers the risk of identity theft, but it requires the VA to build and maintain new identification systems by a set deadline.
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The Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Labor, shall discontinue collecting and using Social Security account numbers to authenticate individuals in all information systems of the Department of Veterans Affairs for all individuals not later than September 30, 2027.
Continuing rules for VA Medical Services funding
This section says that a specific rule from an older law (Public Law 114-223, section 239) will apply to Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Services money. It covers both fiscal year 2027 and fiscal year 2028. That older rule set conditions on how VA Medical Services funds could be used. By referencing it here, Congress keeps those same conditions in place for two more years.
Who this affects
The Department of Veterans Affairs and the veterans who use VA medical care. It also affects VA administrators who manage the medical services budget.
Tradeoff
Keeping the old rules gives budget stability and consistency, but it may also lock in restrictions that could limit flexibility if VA medical needs change.
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For funds provided to the Department of Veterans Affairs for each of fiscal year 2027 and 2028 for Medical Services , section 239 of division A of Public Law 114–223 shall apply.
Protection of Filipino Veterans Compensation Fund
This section blocks the Department of Veterans Affairs from moving money out of the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation Fund. The fund cannot be transferred to any other VA account. This rule applies to money from this bill, past bills, or any other source given to the VA.
Who this affects
Filipino veterans who are eligible for payments from the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation Fund. It also affects VA budget managers who handle fund transfers.
Tradeoff
The fund is protected from being used for other VA purposes, but it also cannot be moved even if the VA believes another use would better serve veterans.
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None of the funds appropriated in this or prior appropriations Acts or otherwise made available to the Department of Veterans Affairs may be used to transfer any amounts from the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation Fund to any other account within the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Child care funding for veterans receiving medical care
This section lets the Department of Veterans Affairs use its Medical Services budget to run and grow a child care program in both 2027 and 2028. The program was originally created by a 2010 law. That law included a subsection that limits how the program can work. This section sets that limit aside, giving the VA more flexibility to offer child care to veterans who need it while they receive medical treatment.
Who this affects
Veterans who are parents and need child care while attending VA medical appointments. It also affects VA staff who manage the child care program.
Tradeoff
More veterans may be able to access child care during medical visits, but the money comes from the same Medical Services budget that funds other VA health care.
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funds may be used in each year to carry out and expand the child care program authorized by section 205 of Public Law 111–163, notwithstanding subsection (e) of such section.
Ban on gag agreements with individuals who contact Congress
This section bars the Department of Veterans Affairs from using any of its funds to sign settlement or dispute agreements that would stop a person from talking to members of Congress or their staff. The ban applies to any topic that is not already protected by federal law or kept secret for national defense or foreign affairs reasons. In short, if the VA settles a dispute with someone, it cannot include terms that silence that person from speaking to lawmakers.
Who this affects
People who have disputes or claims with the VA, such as veterans or VA employees. Members of Congress and their staff are also affected because they would keep access to information from these individuals.
Tradeoff
The VA loses a tool it might use to fully settle disputes quietly, but individuals keep the right to share concerns with Congress.
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None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available in this title may be used by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into an agreement related to resolving a dispute or claim with an individual that would restrict in any way the individual from speaking to Members of Congress or their staff on any topic not otherwise prohibited from disclosure by Federal law
Inspector General access to agency records
This section says that no money from this law can be used to block an Inspector General from seeing agency records or documents. Each agency must give its Inspector General access to records in a timely way. The only exception is a law that directly names that Inspector General and directly limits access. Inspectors General must still follow rules about keeping certain information private. If an agency refuses or delays access, the Inspector General must report that to both the Senate and House Appropriations Committees within 5 days.
Who this affects
Inspectors General funded by this law, and the departments or agencies they oversee, including the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Tradeoff
Agencies get stronger oversight of their records, but they lose the ability to use general legal provisions to slow down or block an Inspector General's review.
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None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be used to deny an Inspector General funded under this Act timely access to any records, documents, or other materials available to the department or agency over which that Inspector General has responsibilities
Protecting veterans' wait times for VA medical care
This section blocks any money in the bill from being used in a way that would make veterans wait longer to get care at VA medical facilities. It does not set a specific wait time limit. It simply says that none of the bill's funds can cause wait times to go up.
Who this affects
Veterans who use VA medical facilities for health care. It also affects how VA administrators can spend the money provided in this bill.
Tradeoff
This provision protects current wait times, but it does not require wait times to improve, and it may limit how the VA can use funds if any spending change could be tied to longer waits.
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None of the funds made available in this Act may be used in a manner that would increase wait times for veterans who seek care at medical facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Congressional approval required before changing VA health program funding
This section limits how the Veterans Health Administration can spend money in fiscal year 2027. Some VA health programs receive funds set aside for a specific purpose. This section says those programs cannot be switched to general, flexible funding without first notifying Congress in writing. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs must give both House and Senate Appropriations Committees at least 30 days' notice before making such a change. The change can only happen if those committees approve it.
Who this affects
The Veterans Health Administration and the veterans who rely on programs that have dedicated, specific-purpose funding.
Tradeoff
Congress keeps closer oversight over how VA health programs are funded, but the VA has less flexibility to shift money quickly if needs change.
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None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act to the Veterans Health Administration may be used in fiscal year 2027 to convert any program which received specific purpose funds in fiscal year 2026 to a general purpose funded program unless the Secretary of Veterans Affairs submits written notification of any such proposal to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress at least 30 days prior to any such action and an approval is issued by the Committees.
Extension of existing spending rules for Veterans Affairs funds
This section says that a specific rule from a 2016 law (Public Law 114-223, section 248) will apply to Department of Veterans Affairs money in both fiscal years 2027 and 2028. That older rule sets conditions or restrictions on how the VA can use its funds. By referencing it here, Congress keeps those same rules in place for two more years without rewriting them.
Who this affects
The Department of Veterans Affairs and the people who manage its budget. Veterans who receive VA services may also be affected if the referenced rules shape how money is spent.
Tradeoff
Extending the older rule gives budget consistency, but it also locks in conditions from 2016 that may not fully fit current VA needs.
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For funds provided to the Department of Veterans Affairs for each of fiscal year 2027 and 2028, section 248 of division A of Public Law 114–223 shall apply.
Limits on animal research at the Department of Veterans Affairs
This section restricts how the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can use dogs, cats, and non-human primates in research starting July 1, 2025. No such research can begin unless the Secretary of Veterans Affairs personally approves it in writing. The Secretary must certify four things before approving: no other research method can meet the scientific goal, the research directly helps veterans with combat-related injuries, the research follows VA animal research policy, and ethical steps to limit animal harm were considered. The Secretary cannot pass this approval authority to anyone else. Before approved research begins, the VA must tell Congress about it within 30 days. The VA must also send Congress a report twice a year on all ongoing animal research and once a year on any animal welfare violations found at VA labs, along with what fixes were made. VA facilities that use these animals must also accept voluntary inspections by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Who this affects
VA researchers who use dogs, cats, or non-human primates in studies. It also affects veterans who may benefit from or be enrolled in research tied to combat-related injuries.
Tradeoff
The rules add oversight and may slow some research, but they also create stricter protections for animals used in VA labs.
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None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be used to conduct research commencing on or after July 1, 2025, that uses any canine, feline, or non-human primate unless the Secretary of Veterans Affairs approves such research specifically and in writing pursuant to subsection (b).
Veterans rehabilitation program staffing limits
This section sets a cap on how many veterans one staff member can serve in VA rehabilitation programs. The limit is 125 veterans per full-time staff member. The VA Secretary can use funds from this bill to stay within that limit. Within 180 days of the bill becoming law, the Secretary must send Congress a report. The report must show the current veteran-to-staff ratio for each rehabilitation program. It must also include the Secretary's recommendations for reducing those ratios.
Who this affects
Veterans enrolled in VA rehabilitation programs under Chapter 31 of Title 38. VA staff who run those programs are also affected.
Tradeoff
Capping caseloads may improve service quality for veterans, but hiring more staff to meet the limit would cost additional money.
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the ratio of veterans to full-time employment equivalents within any program of rehabilitation conducted under chapter 31 of title 38, United States Code, does not exceed 125 veterans to one full-time employment equivalent.
Flexible use of veteran community care funds
This section lets the Veterans Health Administration use money from its Medical Community Care account to pay for costs that would normally come from the Veterans Choice Fund. This applies to fiscal years 2027 and 2028. The Veterans Choice Fund is a separate pot of money set up under a 2014 law to help veterans get care outside VA facilities. By allowing the two funding sources to cover the same expenses, the VA has more flexibility in how it pays for veterans' outside care.
Who this affects
Veterans who receive health care from non-VA providers through community care programs. It also affects VA budget managers who decide how to allocate medical funds.
Tradeoff
Giving the VA more flexibility to cover community care costs could help ensure bills get paid on time, but it also means less separation between two distinct funding streams, which may make it harder to track how each pool of money is spent.
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Amounts made available for the Veterans Health Administration, Medical Community Care account in this or any other Act for fiscal years 2027 and 2028 may be used for expenses that would otherwise be payable from the Veterans Choice Fund
Reclassification of past veterans home care spending
This section moves certain old spending records. Money that was recorded under the VA Medical Services account in fiscal years 2017 through 2019 for aid to state veterans homes will now be counted under the Medical Community Care account instead. The change is accounting only. It does not create new spending or take away any benefits. It simply corrects which budget line the old costs are listed under.
Who this affects
The Department of Veterans Affairs and its budget record-keepers. State veterans homes that received federal aid in 2017 to 2019 are also involved, though no payment amounts change.
Tradeoff
The reclassification cleans up the budget record but requires VA staff to update historical accounting entries.
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Obligations and expenditures applicable to the Medical Services account in fiscal years 2017 through 2019 for aid to state homes...shall remain in the Medical Community Care account for such fiscal years.
Veterans health program funding allocations
This section sets specific dollar amounts for ten Veterans Health Administration programs in fiscal year 2027. It directs $1.44 billion for women veterans' care. It sets aside $700 million for suicide prevention outreach. The Caregivers program receives $3.5 billion. The National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder gets $42 million. Neurology Centers of Excellence receive $80 million. Rural health care is funded at $349 million. Veterans' homelessness programs get $3.46 billion. Telehealth services receive $6.37 billion. Opioid prevention and treatment programs get $710 million. The Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program receives $32 million.
Who this affects
Veterans who use VA health services, including women veterans, rural veterans, homeless veterans, and veterans dealing with mental health or substance use issues. It also affects caregivers of veterans.
Tradeoff
Locking in specific amounts for each program gives those programs funding certainty, but it also limits the VA's flexibility to shift money if needs change during the year.
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$1,444,000,000 shall be made available for gender-specific care and programmatic efforts to deliver care for women veterans; $700,000,000 shall be made available for suicide prevention outreach programs; $3,500,000,000 shall be made available for the Caregivers program
Veterans Health Administration medical facility upgrades
This section sets aside $1.45 billion from an existing fund called the Recurring Expenses Transformational Fund. The money can be used to build, expand, or improve medical facilities run by the Veterans Health Administration. This includes all support work and costs for unexpected problems. Before any money is spent, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs must send a spending plan to the Senate and House Appropriations Committees. The money cannot be used until those committees approve the plan, or until 30 days pass with no response.
Who this affects
Military veterans who use VA health facilities. The VA Secretary and Congress also play a direct role in deciding how the money is spent.
Tradeoff
Funding facility upgrades could improve veteran care, but the required congressional review step adds a waiting period before any construction can begin.
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prior to obligation of any of the funds provided in this section, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs must provide a plan for the execution of the funds appropriated in this section to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress and such Committees issue an approval, or absent a response, a period of 30 days has elapsed.
Veterans Health spending plan and quarterly reports
This section requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit a spending plan to Congress within 30 days of the law passing. The plan must cover all funds provided by this Act plus any leftover money from prior years. Health spending must be broken down into four specific categories: Medical Services, Medical Community Care, Medical Support and Compliance, and Medical and Prosthetic Research. After that, the Secretary must send Congress a progress report within 30 days after each fiscal quarter ends. Each quarterly report must show, at minimum, how much money has been committed to each program, project, or activity.
Who this affects
The Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the agency's staff who manage budgets. Congress members on both chambers' Appropriations Committees receive these reports.
Tradeoff
The reporting requirements give Congress more visibility into how VA health funds are spent, but they add administrative work for the department.
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Not later than 30 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress an expenditure plan for funds made available in this Act and any available unobligated balances from prior Acts
Keeping old funds available to pay valid bills
This section deals with money that was transferred to the Department of Veterans Affairs and managed by a nonprofit research corporation between October 1, 2017 and September 30, 2018. That money was used to fill orders placed by other federal agencies. Normally, old funds expire and can no longer be used to pay bills. This section allows those specific funds to stay available longer. They can be used to pay any valid bills that the corporation owed during the time it was doing the work. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs must first decide that keeping the money available is necessary.
Who this affects
Nonprofit research corporations that managed VA funds during fiscal year 2018. Federal agencies that placed orders with the VA during that period may also be affected.
Tradeoff
Allowing old funds to remain available helps pay legitimate unpaid bills, but it extends the life of appropriated money beyond its normal expiration date.
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Any amounts transferred to the Secretary and administered by a corporation referred to in section 7364(b) of title 38, United States Code, between October 1, 2017 and September 30, 2018 for purposes of carrying out an order placed with the Department of Veterans Affairs pursuant to section 1535 of title 31, United States Code, that are available for obligation pursuant to section 7364(b)(1) of title 38, United States Code, are to remain available for the liquidation of valid obligations incurred by such corporation during the period of performance of such order
Restrictions on closing or reducing VA health facilities
This section blocks federal money from being used to close any VA hospital, domiciliary, or clinic. It also blocks money from reducing health services at existing VA facilities as part of a planned service realignment. These actions are blocked until the Secretary of Veterans Affairs sends a report to both chambers' Appropriations Committees. The report must explain how the planned changes would affect veterans' access to care, especially those in rural and highly rural areas. It must include travel distances, transportation costs, and the local availability of primary and specialty care.
Who this affects
Veterans who use VA hospitals, clinics, or domiciliaries, especially those living in rural or highly rural areas. The VA Secretary is also directly affected, as the reporting requirement must be met before any realignment can proceed.
Tradeoff
This provision protects veterans' access to existing VA facilities, but it may also slow or delay the VA's ability to reorganize or modernize its healthcare delivery.
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None of the funds in this or any other Act may be used to close Department of Veterans Affairs hospitals, domiciliaries, or clinics, conduct an environmental assessment, or to diminish healthcare services at existing Veterans Health Administration medical facilities as part of a planned realignment of services until the Secretary provides to the Committees on Appropriations of both Houses of Congress a report including an analysis of how any such planned realignment of services will impact access to care for veterans living in rural or highly rural areas
Reusing unspent construction funds for veterans facilities
This section lets the Department of Veterans Affairs use leftover, unspent money from its major and minor construction budgets. The money can go toward facilities built under a 2016 law called the CHIP IN for Veterans Act. It can cover cost increases or a built-in escalation clause in a project agreement. Before spending any of that leftover money, the VA must ask both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees for permission. The Committees must approve, or 30 days must pass with no response. The VA must also tell Congress that the private partner on the project has already tried every cost-saving option available under the agreement.
Who this affects
The Department of Veterans Affairs and private or nonprofit partners building veteran facilities under the 2016 CHIP IN law. Veterans who use those facilities may also be affected.
Tradeoff
Allowing unspent funds to be redirected can keep veteran facility projects moving when costs rise, but it also shifts money that had been set aside for other construction needs.
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Unobligated balances available under the headings Construction, Major Projects and Construction, Minor Projects may be obligated by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for a facility pursuant to section 2(e)(1) of the Communities Helping Invest through Property and Improvements Needed for Veterans Act of 2016...to provide additional funds or to fund an escalation clause under such section
Ban on buying certain tech equipment from restricted companies
This section stops the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from spending any 2027 funds on computers, printers, or videoconferencing equipment if the maker or seller appears on certain government watchlists. Those lists include the Pentagon's Chinese Military Company List, the Treasury's Chinese Military Industrial Complex list, the Commerce Department's Denied Persons, Entity, or Military End User lists (for China-linked firms), and the Homeland Security Uyghur Forced Labor list. The ban covers parent companies and subsidiaries too. It also applies when the VA hires a third party to do the buying. Cloud services that use such equipment are not covered by the ban.
Who this affects
VA employees and contractors who purchase office technology for the VA. Companies on the listed watchlists cannot sell covered equipment to the VA, directly or through middlemen.
Tradeoff
The rule reduces risk from restricted foreign companies but may limit purchasing options and could raise costs if fewer suppliers are available.
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None of the funds appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for the Department of Veterans Affairs may be obligated, awarded, or expended to procure or purchase covered information technology equipment in cases where the manufacturer, bidder, or offeror, or any subsidiary or parent entity of the manufacturer, bidder, or offeror, of the equipment is an entity, or parent company of an entity listed on any of the following...
Block on VA transportation payment rule
This section stops the Department of Veterans Affairs from using any funds in this bill to carry out a specific rule. The rule, published on February 16, 2023, changed the rates the VA pays for special transportation for veterans. Examples of special transportation include ambulances and wheelchair vans. The block would last from October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027. During that time, the VA could not enforce or apply the new payment rates set by that 2023 rule.
Who this affects
Veterans who need special transportation to reach VA medical care. It also affects transportation companies that get paid by the VA for those services.
Tradeoff
Blocking the rule may preserve older payment rates for transportation providers, but it also delays any changes the 2023 rule was meant to make to how the VA covers veteran transportation costs.
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none of the funds made available by this Act may be used to administer, implement, or enforce the final rule issued by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs relating to Change in Rates VA Pays for Special Modes of Transportation (88 Fed. Reg. 10032) and published on February 16, 2023.
No bonus pay for poor-performing contractors
This section blocks the use of funds from this bill to pay bonus or incentive fees to contractors who are doing a bad job. A contractor doing a bad job means they are behind schedule, over budget, below satisfactory, or not meeting basic contract terms. There are two exceptions. First, the agency can still pay the fee if the problem was caused by something unforeseeable, by the government changing the project scope, or if the issue is minor compared to the whole project. Second, any such payment must follow existing federal contracting rules.
Who this affects
Federal contractors working on military construction or veterans affairs projects. Government agencies overseeing those contracts are also affected.
Tradeoff
This limits bonus pay to contractors who fall short, but agencies still have some flexibility to pay fees when problems are outside the contractor's control.
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None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be used to pay award or incentive fees for contractors whose performance has been judged to be below satisfactory, behind schedule, over budget, or has failed to meet the basic requirements of a contract
VA staffing levels for claims and healthcare
This section tells the Department of Veterans Affairs to keep enough staff to meet its own goals. Specifically, the Department must process benefits claims within 125 days. It must also provide healthcare appointments and services within the time limits set by law and regulation.
Who this affects
Veterans who file benefits claims or seek VA healthcare. VA employees and managers who set staffing levels.
Tradeoff
Requiring the VA to maintain staffing levels to hit these targets could increase personnel costs, but falling short of the targets leaves veterans waiting longer for benefits and care.
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The Department is directed to maintain staffing levels to facilitate the Department's own goals, including that benefits claims are adjudicated according to the 125 day goal, and that healthcare appointments and service are provided in the timeframes required by statute and regulation.
Bakersfield VA clinic construction or relocation deadline
This section sets a firm deadline for the Department of Veterans Affairs. By September 30, 2027, the VA Secretary must either start building a new outpatient clinic in Bakersfield, California, or move current clinic services to a temporary space. The temporary space would be used until the new facility is ready. The new facility is tied to a specific lease agreement, Lease No. 36C10F20L0008.
Who this affects
Veterans in the Bakersfield, California area who use the VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic. VA staff and administrators responsible for the facility.
Tradeoff
Setting a hard deadline may push the VA to act, but if the new building is not ready in time, veterans may have to use a temporary space that could be less convenient.
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by no later than September 30, 2027, the Secretary shall commence construction of the Community Based Outpatient Clinic in Bakersfield, California or move services currently being provided at the current Community Based Outpatient Clinic in Bakersfield, California to an appropriate, temporary space
Protection of Veterans Crisis Line and suicide prevention programs
This section blocks any money from this bill from being used to cut staff, shorten hours, or reduce services at the Veterans Crisis Line. It also covers any other VA suicide prevention program. In short, the VA cannot use these funds to scale back crisis support for veterans in any way.
Who this affects
Veterans who use the Veterans Crisis Line or other VA suicide prevention services. It also affects VA administrators who manage staffing and program budgets.
Tradeoff
This protection keeps crisis services intact, but it limits the VA's flexibility to shift funds if other urgent needs arise.
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None of the funds made available by this Act may be used to reduce the staffing, hours of operation, or services of the Veterans Crisis Line or any other suicide prevention program of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Funding for Army National Military Cemeteries special account
This section deals with money held in a special account under federal law. Any amounts deposited into that account are automatically made available to spend. The money can be used until it runs out, with no expiration date. It must be spent on activities at the Army National Military Cemeteries, which include Arlington National Cemetery.
Who this affects
The Army National Military Cemeteries and the federal agency that manages them. It also affects veterans and service members buried or to be buried there.
Tradeoff
Making funds available until expended gives the Army flexibility to plan long-term cemetery work, but it also means Congress does not review or renew the spending each year.
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Amounts deposited into the special account established under 10 U.S.C. 7727 are appropriated and shall be available until expended to support activities at the Army National Military Cemeteries.
Spending deadline for appropriated funds
This section sets a time limit on the money provided by this bill. Any funds that are not spent or committed by the end of the fiscal year must stop being available. The only exception is if the bill itself specifically says a certain amount of money can carry over into a future year. This is a standard rule meant to keep agencies from holding onto unspent money indefinitely.
Who this affects
Federal agencies receiving money through this bill, including the Department of Veterans Affairs and military construction programs. Agency budget managers must plan spending to meet the deadline.
Tradeoff
The rule encourages timely spending of public funds, but it can also pressure agencies to spend money quickly rather than waiting for the best use.
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No part of any appropriation contained in this Act shall remain available for obligation beyond the current fiscal year unless expressly so provided herein.
Blocking funds for programs that break certain federal laws
This section says that no money from this bill can be used for any program, project, or activity that breaks federal laws in three areas. Those areas are: risk assessment rules, private property rights protections, and unfunded mandates rules. The ban applies once a federal official or agency learns the program is out of compliance. If an agency finds out a program breaks one of those laws, it must stop spending bill money on it.
Who this affects
Federal agencies and officials who receive money from this bill. Programs or projects that may not follow federal rules on risk assessment, property rights, or unfunded mandates could lose their funding.
Tradeoff
This provision adds a check on how money is spent, but it could also slow or stop programs if compliance questions arise and take time to resolve.
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None of the funds made available in this Act may be used for any program, project, or activity, when it is made known to the Federal entity or official to which the funds are made available that the program, project, or activity is not in compliance with any Federal law relating to risk assessment, the protection of private property rights, or unfunded mandates.
Encourage use of e-commerce technology
This section asks all agencies and departments funded by this bill to use e-commerce tools more often. This includes things like online transactions and digital business processes. The agencies are only encouraged, not required, to do this. They must also stay within their existing legal authority and current funding. No new money or new legal powers are granted.
Who this affects
Federal agencies and departments funded under this bill, including the Department of Veterans Affairs and military construction programs. Members of the public who interact with those agencies online may also be affected.
Tradeoff
Wider use of e-commerce could make government services faster and cheaper, but because it is only a suggestion with no new funding, agencies may not act on it.
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All departments and agencies funded under this Act are encouraged, within the limits of the existing statutory authorities and funding, to expand their use of E-Commerce technologies and procedures in the conduct of their business practices and public service activities.
Reporting destination for required notices
This section sets a default rule for where reports and notifications must be sent. Unless the bill says otherwise, every report or notice required by the Act must go to two specific subcommittees. Those are the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs subcommittees of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees.
Who this affects
Federal agencies required to submit reports or notifications under this Act. Staff of the two named Congressional subcommittees who receive those submissions.
Tradeoff
Setting one default destination keeps reporting simple and consistent, but it also means every notice goes to both chambers even when only one may need the information.
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all reports and notifications required by this Act shall be submitted to the Subcommittee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies of the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Subcommittee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies of the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate.
Limit on moving funds to other agencies
This section says that no money from this spending bill can be moved to another federal department or agency. The only exception is if a transfer is specifically allowed by this bill or another appropriations law. In other words, agencies cannot shift these funds around on their own. Any transfer must have clear legal backing from Congress.
Who this affects
Federal agencies and departments that receive or might receive funds from this bill. It limits their ability to redirect money without congressional approval.
Tradeoff
This rule keeps Congress in control of how funds are used, but it also limits the flexibility of agencies to respond quickly to changing needs.
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None of the funds made available in this Act may be transferred to any department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States Government except pursuant to a transfer made by, or transfer authority provided in, this or any other appropriations Act.
No naming projects after sitting House members
This section blocks any money in this bill from being used to name a project or program after a current member of the U.S. House of Representatives. That includes Members, Delegates, and the Resident Commissioner. The rule applies as long as the person still holds that office.
Who this affects
Current House members who might otherwise have a project or program named after them. It also affects any agency or group that would carry out such a naming.
Tradeoff
This rule prevents a sitting lawmaker from gaining a naming honor tied to funds they helped approve, but it also blocks recognition that supporters might view as deserved.
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None of the funds made available in this Act may be used for a project or program named for an individual serving as a Member, Delegate, or Resident Commissioner of the United States House of Representatives.
Public posting of agency reports
Any agency that gets money from this bill must post required reports on its public website. The agency head decides if posting serves the national interest. There are two exceptions: the report cannot be posted if it would harm national security, or if it contains confidential or business-sensitive information. Before posting, the agency must give Congress at least 45 days to review the report first.
Who this affects
Federal agencies funded by this bill and members of the public who want to read government reports. Congressional committees also have a role, since they get a 45-day window before any report goes public.
Tradeoff
More public access to government reports increases transparency, but the agency head has wide control over what gets posted, and national security or confidentiality concerns can block posting entirely.
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The head of the agency posting such report shall do so only after such report has been made available to the requesting Committee or Committees of Congress for no less than 45 days.
Block pornography on government computer networks
This section says that no money from this bill can be used to run a government computer network unless that network blocks pornography. This includes blocking viewing, downloading, and sharing of pornographic content. There is one exception: law enforcement agencies and other groups involved in criminal investigations, prosecutions, or court proceedings can still access such content if needed for their work.
Who this affects
Federal agencies covered by this bill must comply with the blocking requirement. Law enforcement agencies and legal offices doing criminal work are exempt.
Tradeoff
The rule adds a content-filtering requirement to government networks, which may improve workplace standards but could add cost and technical complexity to maintain filtering systems.
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None of the funds made available in this Act may be used to maintain or establish a computer network unless such network blocks the viewing, downloading, and exchanging of pornography.
Ban on first-class travel for federal employees
This section says that no money from this bill can be used to pay for first-class airline travel for federal executive branch employees. It points to existing federal travel rules (41 C.F.R. 301-10.122 through 301-10.124). Those rules already limit when first-class travel is allowed. This section adds a funding restriction to back up those rules. If an agency tries to pay for first-class tickets in a way those rules do not allow, they cannot use money from this bill to do it.
Who this affects
Federal executive branch employees who travel for work. It also affects agency travel offices that book and pay for employee flights.
Tradeoff
This restriction can save taxpayer money on travel costs, but it may create added steps for agencies in cases where first-class travel might otherwise be justified under the existing rules.
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None of the funds made available in this Act may be used by an agency of the executive branch to pay for first-class travel by an employee of the agency in contravention of sections 301–10.122 through 301–10.124 of title 41, Code of Federal Regulations.
Contractor compliance with immigration employment rules
This section blocks the use of any money from this bill to hire contractors who have not followed Executive Order 12989. That executive order requires federal contractors to use the E-Verify system. E-Verify is an online tool that checks whether workers are legally allowed to work in the United States. The rule applies to all goods, services, and construction contracts funded by this bill.
Who this affects
Federal contractors bidding on military construction or Veterans Affairs projects. Any contractor that has not used E-Verify as required cannot receive a contract under this bill.
Tradeoff
This rule may reduce the pool of eligible contractors, which could slow some projects or raise costs, but it aims to ensure contractors verify that their workers are legally authorized to work.
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None of the funds made available in this Act may be used to execute a contract for goods or services, including construction services, where the contractor has not complied with Executive Order No. 12989.
Ban on using funds against transgender military service limits
This section blocks any money in this bill from being used in a way that goes against a specific part of federal law. That law, found at 10 U.S.C. section 101(f)(8), sets a definition related to biological sex for military service purposes. In short, no funds here can be spent in a way that contradicts that definition.
Who this affects
Military personnel and Department of Defense programs covered by this spending bill. It affects how the military can use these funds regarding sex-related policies.
Tradeoff
Supporters say this enforces existing law and limits government spending to its intended purpose, while critics may argue it restricts how military leaders can manage personnel policy.
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None of the funds made available by this Act may be used in contravention of section 101(f)(8) of title 10, United States Code.
Ban on building new U.S. detention facilities for Guantanamo detainees
This section blocks Department of Defense money from being used to build, renovate, or expand any facility inside the United States (or its territories) that would house Guantanamo Bay detainees. The ban covers non-U.S. citizens who were held at Guantanamo as of June 24, 2009, and who are in military custody. However, the ban does not stop the military from making changes to existing facilities at Guantanamo Bay itself. In other words, money can still be spent on the Cuba site, but not on creating any new or expanded holding space on U.S. soil for those same detainees.
Who this affects
The Department of Defense, which cannot use its funds for this purpose. It also affects non-U.S. citizen detainees held at Guantanamo Bay, who cannot be transferred to new or expanded facilities on U.S. soil.
Tradeoff
The restriction keeps Guantanamo detainees off U.S. soil but limits the military's flexibility to house or transfer them elsewhere.
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None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available to the Department of Defense in this Act may be used to construct, renovate, or expand any facility in the United States, its territories, or possessions to house any individual detained at United States Naval Station, Guantánamo Bay, Cuba, for the purposes of detention or imprisonment in the custody or under the control of the Department of Defense.
VA mental health reports and gun purchase checks
This section blocks the Department of Veterans Affairs from spending any of its funds to report a veteran to the federal firearms background check system based only on a VA determination that the veteran is mentally incapacitated, incompetent, or unconscious for an extended time. Before such a report can be made, a judge or other court authority must first issue an order or finding that the person is a danger to themselves or others. Without that court step, the VA cannot flag the veteran as someone banned from buying a gun.
Who this affects
Veterans who the VA has deemed mentally incapacitated or incompetent. It also affects any agency or court involved in the firearms background check process.
Tradeoff
Veterans get a court review before losing firearm rights, but that added step may slow or prevent some safety-related reports to the background check system.
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None of the funds made available by this Act may be used by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs under section 5502 of title 38, United States Code, in any case arising out of the administration by the Secretary of laws and benefits under such title, to report a person who is deemed mentally incapacitated, mentally incompetent, or to be experiencing an extended loss of consciousness as a person who has been adjudicated as a mental defective...without the order or finding of a judge, magistrate, or other judicial authority of competent jurisdiction that such person is a danger to himself or herself or others.
Ban on using funds to lobby Congress
This section bars any money from this bill from being used to influence Congress on pending laws or spending matters. The only exception is direct, factual communication with members of Congress, as allowed under federal law (18 U.S.C. 1913). In short, agencies cannot use these funds to run lobbying campaigns aimed at shaping what Congress decides.
Who this affects
Federal agencies and programs funded by this bill. Any agency employee or contractor who might otherwise use these funds for lobbying activity is restricted.
Tradeoff
This limits agencies from advocating for their own priorities in Congress, but it also prevents public money from being spent on self-interested lobbying campaigns.
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None of the funds appropriated by this Act may be used in any way, directly or indirectly, to influence congressional action on any legislation or appropriation matter pending before Congress, other than to communicate to Members of Congress as described in 18 U.S.C. 1913.
VA smoke-free workplace policy kept in place
This section requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to keep a specific no-smoking policy active. That policy, called VHA Directive 1085.01, was issued on August 8, 2019. It sets smoke-free rules for employees at VA health care facilities. The section prevents the policy from being quietly dropped or changed.
Who this affects
Employees who work at VA health care facilities across the country. Patients and visitors at those facilities may also be affected.
Tradeoff
Keeping the policy in place protects people from secondhand smoke at VA facilities, but it limits the VA's flexibility to update or adjust the policy on its own.
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The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall ensure that the policies and requirements described in the transmittal sheet of the Veterans Health Administration published on August 8, 2019, titled Smoke-Free Policy for Employees at VA Health Care Facilities (VHA Directive 1085.01) remain in effect.
Zero dollar appropriation line
This section sets a funding amount of zero dollars. It appears as a single line item in the appropriations bill. No money is provided under this entry. The section does not name a program or account, so it is unclear what specific item receives no funding.
Who this affects
Anyone who might rely on the program or account tied to this line item. Without a named program, the full impact is unclear.
Tradeoff
Recording a zero-dollar line keeps the item formally in the bill but provides no actual funding for whatever it covers.
Show the exact bill text
$0.
Citations
Congress.gov bill text: link (retrieved 2026-06-19)
Public record
Below is the official voting record from Congress.gov. It is not our analysis.
Source: Congress.gov
House: Yea-and-Nay
PassedMay 15, 2026
On Passage
Yea400
Nay15
Present0
Not Voting15
See how each representative voted (430)
How each representative voted on On Passage. Default ordering: by state, then by name.