Issue Position: Veterans

Issue Position

Issue Position: Veterans

I have the privilege of representing 91,920 veterans in Arizona and issues affecting our veterans are very important to me.

As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I will continue to look for ways to ensure that those who have worn the nation's uniform are treated with respect and gratitude. In particular, I have:

* Voted for the largest funding increase in the VA history, including $600 million more for mental health, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury care than requested by the President (VA Budget Authorization);
* Fought to prohibit fee increases for TRICARE and its pharmacy program for service members and retirees (H.R. 1585);
* Supported the Wounded Warrior Assistance Act (H.R. 1538), legislation that would improve the management of medical care, personnel actions and quality of life issues for members of the Armed Forces who are receiving medical care. I passed an amendment to this bill that would increase the reporting requirement on mental health services for returning combat veterans;
* Opposed the Military Families Tax, which unfairly penalizes more than 60,000 survivors, most of them widows (H.R. 1927); and
* Formed a Veterans' Advisory Council of local vets throughout Southern Arizona who advise me about legislation in Congress and keep me informed about veterans' issues and concerns in our community.

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