We dramatically increased funding for veterans health care: more care for women's veterans, for our wounded warriors from Iraq and Afghanistan suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, traumatic（外伤的，创伤的） brain injuries. For 500,000 "Priority 8" veterans, we're restoring VA health care coverage.

All told, we have made the biggest commitment to veterans -- the largest percentage increase in the VA budget -- in more than 30 years. (Applause.) And this includes funding the post-9/11 GI Bill -- making sure it works as intended so our newest veterans and their families have the chance to pursue their education and live out their dreams.

So we're keeping our promises. We're making real progress for our vets -- like those with us today, including Maryland Lieutenant Governor Anthony Brown, the highest-ranking elected official in the nation who has served a tour of duty in Iraq. Thank you, Colonel Brown. (Applause.)

But we're here today because a problem that's gone on for far too long -- the delays and uncertainty that often plague（折磨，苦恼） funding for veterans' health care. Over the past two decades, the VA budget has been late almost every year, often by months.

At this very moment, the VA is operating without a budget, making it harder for VA medical centers and clinics to deliver the care our vets need. The hardworking folks at the VA know this. I was there at headquarters this spring. Michelle was there -- if I'm not mistaken, Ric -- just this Tuesday. It's frustrating for them and it's frustrating for our vets who pay the price when budgets are delayed: the new doctors, nurses, and critical staff that aren't hired; the new medical equipment that isn't purchased; the construction of new facilities and clinics that isn't started; the new programs for medical care that are delayed.

This is inexcusable（不可宽恕的，不可原谅的）. It's unacceptable. It's time for it to stop. And that's just what we'll do with this landmark legislation -- the Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act.

I want everybody to know today is a victory for all the veterans' organizations who are represented on this stage who fought for years for reform. (Applause.) They deserve a huge congratulations. (Applause.) Today is a tribute to those who led the fight in Congress: Senator -- and World War II vet -- Danny Akaka, and Representative Bob Filner -- thank you for your leadership. (Applause.)

All the leaders who made this possible, starting with Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who made this commitment to veterans organizations when she became Minority Leader. (Applause.) I was told some people didn't believe Nancy when she made that promise. (Laughter.) Nancy keeps her promises, and I want all our vets to remember that.

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