STAFF REPORTS

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Patrick McHenry (NC-10) voted in favor of H.R.2346, the 2009 War Supplemental Appropriations bill. The bipartisan measure passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 368 to 60.

The legislation funds ongoing war and intelligence operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. It also provides $734 million for more than 170,000 service members who have had their enlistments involuntarily extended since September 11, 2001. Service members would receive $500 for every month they were retained under “stop-loss” orders.

“The strong bipartisan support for this funding sends an important message to our troops in the field. This nation has unwavering support for your work and the sacrifices it demands,” said Congressman McHenry.

The measure dedicates $3.6 billion to expand and improve the capabilities of the Afghan security forces. To better protect our forces, $4.8 billion will fund lightweight Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles. Another $1.2 billion will be invested in defense health programs to support military families and $263 million to accelerate construction of new military hospitals.