Rep. Sykes Votes to Support Veterans’ Healthcare and Benefits
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) voted in favor of H.R. 8469, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, legislation that funds veterans’ health care, benefits, toxic exposure treatment, and opioid prevention programs.
The bill provides $481 billion for fiscal year 2027, nearly $32 billion more than current funding levels. The bill also provides advance funding through fiscal year 2028 to ensure veterans continue receiving uninterrupted care and benefits.
“Our veterans should never have to fight for access to healthcare or the benefits they earned serving our country. This funding helps ensure they receive the care, dignity, and support they deserve,” said Rep. Sykes.
The legislation includes:
- $121 billion for veterans’ medical care nationwide;
- $54.6 billion for the Toxic Exposures Fund in FY27 funding and $53.7 million in advance FY28 funding to support veterans exposed to toxic substances;
- $710 million for opioid prevention and treatment programs;
- Advance funding through FY28 for medical services, community care, and medical facilities.
The bill could directly support more than 40,000 veterans living in Ohio’s 13th Congressional District, including veterans who rely on the Akron VA Clinic, Akron West VA Clinic, Canton VA Clinic, Summit County VA Clinic, Stark County Vet Center, and Stark County Mobile Vet Center.
Ohio continues to face the devastating impacts of the opioid epidemic. In 2023, the state recorded 4,452 unintentional overdose deaths. In 2024, Summit County recorded 101 accidental fatal overdoses, while Stark County recorded 104 overdose deaths.
Rep. Sykes also expressed concern about provisions in the bill that could weaken federal gun safety protections and cuts to military construction projects that may affect projects supporting servicemembers and military families across Ohio.
The legislation passed the House and now heads to the Senate for consideration.