Congressman Pearce Introduces Legislation to Support Veterans

Statement

Congressman Steve Pearce introduced legislation that will study the establishing of a veteran polytrauma rehabilitation center or network site in Fort Bayard, New Mexico.

"I am proud to introduce this legislation to uphold our promises to our veterans," said Pearce. "Taking care of those who served our nation and fought to preserve our freedoms is a priority for me. I hold quarterly VA meetings throughout the district, and one of the biggest concerns our veterans have expressed is having to travel great distances for healthcare. Currently, in order for our veterans to access the nearest polytrauma facility, they must travel to Tucson, Denver, or San Antonio. We must honor our veterans and provide them with the healthcare they need, within reasonable proximity to their home communities."

H.R. 3390 directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide Congress a feasibility report on establishing a polytrauma medical facility at Fort Bayard, New Mexico. Polytrauma facilities treat those with injuries to multiple body parts and organs, or traumatic brain injuries, occurring as a result of blast-related wounds seen in Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). Having such facilities located in New Mexico would increase quality of life for our returning soldiers and provide efficient and local rehabilitation recovery.

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