San Antonio Standard

Congressman Tony Gonzales (TX-23) announced today the advancement of several funding priorities for military installations, servicemembers, and veterans in Texas. These measures were included in the House Appropriations Committee's passage of the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies funding bill.

The FY25 funding items directly benefiting Texas' 23rd Congressional District include:

- $70 million for JBSA-Lackland in San Antonio to construct a new classroom and dining facility to enhance quality-of-life services for recruits and existing servicemembers. This project was identified as a top unfunded project by the U.S. Air Force and was submitted by Congressman Gonzales as one of his fifteen "Community Project Funding" priorities.

- $77 million for JBSA METC Barracks

- $56 million for Laughlin AFB T-7A Training Facilities

- $24 million for Laughlin AFB Military Housing

- $44 million for the Fort Bliss Rail Yard

Additionally, the bill prioritizes funding for the expansion of a VA Community Living Center at the Audie Murphy Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC).

“I served for 20 years in the U.S. Navy. Now, I have the honor of serving our nation in the U.S. Congress. South and West Texas contain vital military installations and VA facilities and is home to many veterans and military families. As Congress works through its funding priorities, I’m focused on ensuring our veterans and servicemembers are put at the front of the line," said Congressman Gonzales.

He added, "The brave men and women who serve in our military deserve better than to live, work, and learn on a base with infrastructure that is falling apart or poses severe health risks. I am also committed to ensuring our veterans have access to the best possible healthcare, benefits, and additional services. I’m proud to announce this funding bill contains incredible wins for the communities I represent.”

In addition to critical funding for Texas' 23rd District, Congressman Gonzales advanced funding priorities aimed at improving military readiness, quality of life, and mental health initiatives at the VA.

For a full summary of the bill [click here].