The measure advanced out of a key Senate committee for the first time. Lawmakers are eyeing NORAD's capabilities after a suspected Chinese spy balloon and other objects pierced North America's airspace. The money is part of a larger $1.7 trillion spending plan for federal operations. VA officials and veterans advocates have warned that many veterans may be taken advantage of by lawyers filing suits related to water contamination there. Advocates have called for some prominent leaders of the effort to be recognized with the nation's highest civilian honor. For a veteran receiving about $1,500 in monthly payouts, that level of increase would mean about $130 extra each month. Thousands of families had feared being dropped from the program in early 2023. Sen. Jon Tester wants more resources to help rural vets get money from the program. Some portions of the sweeping veterans policy measure will go into effect as soon as it becomes law. Others will take years. President Joe Biden is expected to sign the sweeping plan into law in coming days. Load More