Congresswoman Kilpatrick Forms Veterans Advisory Committee

Press Release

Congresswoman Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick (MI-13) recently held a meeting with the newly formed Veterans Advisory Committee. The all-volunteer committee, comprised of veterans from the 13th Congressional District, will meet regularly with the Congresswoman to discuss concerns and make suggestions about military and veterans' affairs.

"Ensuring that our veterans have access to the services and care they need and deserve is a high priority," said Congresswoman Kilpatrick. "The knowledge and experience of the committee members will increase my understanding of the issues affecting veterans, service members, and their families. I look forward to working with this decorated group of men and women to identify veterans' needs, to address challenges service members may face upon their return home, and to make sure that Michigan's veterans have a strong voice in Congress."

Committee members are expected to discuss a number of issues affecting veterans and the military, including legislation being considered by Congress, the Department of Defense budget, the importance of professional military schools, and veterans' benefits and health care. The Veterans Advisory Committee will provide veterans' organizations in the 13th District with a way to provide feedback to and get information from the Congresswoman. The group will also assist the Congresswoman in developing strategies to inform veterans, service members, and their families about the benefits and services available to them.

During the 111th Congress, Congresswoman Kilpatrick has sponsored or co-sponsored more than 15 bills affecting veterans, including H.R. 1982, the Veterans Entitlement to Service Act of 2009. The bill would require the Department of Veterans Affairs to respond to first-time claims submitted by veterans or family members of military service personnel seeking benefits within 60 days. Other bills include H.R. 466, the Wounded Warrior Security Act; H.R. 840, the Military Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Act; H.R. 1283, the Military Readiness Enhancement Act of 2009; and H.R. 1544, the Veterans Mental Health Accessibility Act.

Source