[STARLIT]

Mark Knoller-CBS-

V.A. nominee Robert Wilkie was at the WH yesterday to accept quarterly payroll check from Pres Trump for V.A. caregiver programs.

Mark-Pres also uses prison reform remarks to announce his intention to nominate Acting V.A. Secretary Robert Wilkie to be Secretary of Veterans Affairs, replacing original nomination of WH physician Ronny Jackson, replacing fired @SecShulkin.

Pres pledges that his prison reform program will be "the best of its kind anywhere in the world."

On prison reform, says heart of his agenda is helping offenders to reenter society with skills to get a job. Says also committed to mental health and drug treatment programs. Says we should give offenders the tools "to stand on their own 2 feet."

"That's real conservatism," says @SecretaryPerry of drug programs and job training for imprisoned offenders. At WH prison reform summit, also speaks of abuse of the Grand Jury system, reminding WH audience that he had been indicted.

VP says Administration wants to "open pathways to second chances" for imprisoned offenders. "Changed hearts mean changed lives," he says. Says a second chance offers "a shot at a better life."

[STARLIT]

Mark Knoller-

‏ Pres notifies Congress that conditions in Iraq require that he extend the national emergency with respect to Iraq for another year. Was first declared by then-Pres Bush on May 22, 2003 and renewed annually every year since, permitting variety of US actions.