Issue Position: Veterans
Issue Position
I have talked to many veterans in North Texas and across the nation, and they have told me about several topics that concern them. I would like to address a few of those topics, including health care, the recent GI bill, and contact information for resources that are available.
Congress Passes Major Update to Veterans Educational Benefits:
I believe that those who serve our country in the Armed Forces should be rewarded with the educational benefits they have earned. I am proud to have been a part of the first major increase in veterans educational benefits since the Montgomery G.I. Bill was enacted in 1985. Since the late 1990's, the MGIB benefits have covered more than 100% of the average price for tuition, fees, room, and board at public two-year institutions. This update, titled the Post-9/11 GI Bill, will take effect On August 1, 2009 and will cover 100% of the most expensive 4-year public university. In addition, the new GI Bill will ensure that veterans can transfer their earned educational benefits to their spouse and dependents.
Health Care:
As a physician, I know that health care is one of the most important issues veterans must deal with, and I believe our nation's veterans deserve the best health care we can provide. The Dallas VA Medical Center serves the veterans of North Texas, and in May, the VA's Community Based Outpatient Clinic Program opened a new facility in Denton. The opening ceremony for the Denton facility was held on May 30, 2008, and I was honored to participate in this event. The Denton Primary Care Clinic is located at 2223 Colorado Boulevard and is a wonderful addition to the area which I am certain will save many veterans time and traveling costs. Additionally, the VA recently awarded a lease for a new Outpatient Clinic in Fort Worth. I will provide more information on this new clinic as I receive it. There are currently 10 major VA medical centers in Texas which, along with dozens of outpatient clinics, handled nearly 55,000 inpatient admissions and nearly 4 million outpatient visits in 2007. I am committed to providing veterans with every resource necessary to ensure their continued health, and I am proud of Texas' VA system and their dedication to quality care.
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