The Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act

Floor Speech

Mr. ROSS. Yesterday, I had the distinguished opportunity to greet three busloads of Florida World War II veterans participating in an Honor Flight.

In total, more than 80 proud Floridians who bravely fought to free the world of evil during World War II had the wonderful opportunity to visit and reflect at their memorial. As the son of a World War II veteran, I was blessed to have the opportunity to join my father as he participated in a previous Honor Flight just 2 years ago. Although he has since passed on, I know he truly cherished this great experience.

American veterans are the backbone of the freedom and prosperity this country has enjoyed for over 200 years. Without their service, we would not be the Nation we are today. We would not enjoy the privileges of this democracy--the greatest experiment in government known to mankind. Unfortunately, veterans across the country continue to encounter unacceptable problems and delays in receiving appointments from the Veterans Administration for essential medical and specialty health care needs.

That is why I am proud to introduce H.R. 241, the Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act.

This legislation, supported by the Military Officers Association of America, will ensure that veterans seeking medical care from the VA facility receive an appointment within 30 days. Moving forward, this legislation will go a long way in ensuring veterans' critical medical needs no longer slip through the cracks of the system.

As I continue to reflect on the proud history and service of the many World War II veterans like my good friend Charlie Clark, with whom I visited yesterday and whom I had the pleasure of knowing for several years as a member of the local YMCA, I will also look forward to ensuring that our youngest generation of veterans receives the support and timely access to health care that they have so honorably earned.

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