The Washington Hotline
Op-Ed
The Washington Hotline
Happy Fourth of July! As we celebrate the Independence Day of our great nation, let us not forget the brave men and women who have served their country and defended the very values of democracy and freedom that we celebrate today. The veterans of western Pennsylvania have long fought to protect American interests at home and abroad. I salute our hometown heroes for their patriotism and commitment to our country and am proud to be their representative in Congress.
Gulf War Vets' Bonus
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has launched a new benefit program to recognize the service of its Gulf War veterans through a new bonus program. The program provides a one-time payment to anyone who:
Served on active duty (including mobilized Guard and Reserve) in the Persian Gulf theater between August 2, 1990 and August 31, 1991
Received the Southwest Asia Service Medal
Was a legal resident of Pennsylvania at the time of their service
Eligible veterans receive payment of $75 per month (up to $525) for every month of active Gulf War service. An additional bonus of $5000 is available for surviving families of those killed in action.
To learn more about the program or how to apply, visit www.persiangulfbonus.state.pa.us.
VA Healthcare Coverage and Access to Benefits
Providing access to quality and dependable health services for American veterans is a fundamental role of the federal government. As local veterans continue to face increased challenges regarding healthcare coverage and full access to benefits, I am a strong advocate for the advancement of policies that will strengthen veterans healthcare programs, boost disability compensation and ensure easy access to the benefits veterans depend on:
Advocate mandatory increased funding for veterans healthcare programs.
Support concurrent receipt to ensure all disabled military retirees receive disability compensation and full retirement benefits at the same time.
Championed efforts to enact a cost of living adjustment to disability compensation rates for veterans with service-connected disabilities.
Voted to increase support for disabled veterans, surviving spouses and their children.
Successfully restored critical inpatient care to the Erie VAMC.
Encouraged the modernization of the Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief Act to strengthen legal protections in place for those Guard and Reserve called to active duty in the Armed Forces.
Fighting to strengthen and improve the GI Bill to build a better future for vets.
Created a local Veterans Advisory Board to stay up-to-date with the concerns of veterans in western Pennsylvania.
Steadfast advocate of initiatives to preserve and honor our hometown heroes.
3rd District Services
Don't forget, my 3rd district staff can assist local residents with problems they might have with federal agencies such as Social Security, Medicare, military and veteran's affairs and immigration. U.S. Flags can be purchased through my office and we can even assist you with your visit to the nation's capital.
For more information contact one of my offices today.
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