Department of Virginia

Posted at 12:08 AM on Tuesday, August 7, 2007 by Virginia A/Q

In This Issue:
1. House Passes Vets Legislation
2. VFW Testifies on GI Bill Benefits
3. Congress to Begin August Recess

1. VFW Testifies on GI Bill Benefit

The VFW testified before the Senate VA Committee on several bills which would improve current educational benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill. The proposals ranged from small enhancements to the restoration of a "World War II-style" GI Bill that would cover all costs for or training, plus a stipend for living-expenses. The VFW testified in support of all of the proposals, but has thrown its enthusiastic support behind S. 22, The Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Act of 2007, introduced by Sen. Jim Webb (D-VA). S. 22 would cover the most expensive in-state institution, housing, fees, books, and provide a cost-of-living stipend. It recognizes the tens of thousands of Guard and Reserve members who actively served 24 months or more defending our nation. It would increase the "use or lose" period from 10 to 15 years, and establish a post-service benefit for Guard and Reserve members.
Click here for VFW testimony: http://www.vfw.org/index.cfm?fa=caphill.leveld&did=3702
Click here for more information on the Senate VA Committee hearing: http://veterans.senate.gov/public/

2. House Passes Vet Legislation

Earlier this week, the House passed three VFW-supported bills to improve veterans' health care and housing. HR 2874 would increase care for homeless and low-income veterans, authorize a new grant for readjustment counseling, and provide transportation options for veterans living in rural or remote areas. HR 2623 would waive the co-payment for veterans receiving hospice care at home or in acute care facilities. The third bill, HR 1315, allows disabled servicemembers who are temporarily staying with a family member to be eligible for adaptive housing assistance of up to $14,000.
For more information, type the bill number into the search box at: http://thomas.loc.gov/

3. Congress in Recess

Congress is scheduled to begin their annual August recess today and will return after Labor Day. We urge you to contact your members' local district offices to urge their support for a timely VA funding package – the House has passed their version, but the Senate still has not held a floor vote. Tell your Senators to pass the budget, which includes a substantial increase for VA healthcare. We also ask you to encourage support for an enhanced GI Bill, namely S. 22, which is mentioned in item #1.
Click here for a list of VFW priority goals: http://www.vfw.org/index.cfm?fa=caphill.leveld&did=3694
Click here for a list of Congressional offices: http://capwiz.com/vfw/dbq/officials/