Take Care of America's Veterans Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for his leadership and thank him for this great package that will support our veterans.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Take Care of America's Veterans Act.

First and foremost, this legislation delivers long-overdue justice by including key provisions of my Major Richard Star Act. I promised Richard Star that we would get this done, and we are in the process of doing it, again, on behalf of our true American heroes, which I remain committed to achieving full concurrent receipt. Anything that is not included in this bill, we are going to pursue for the benefit of our veterans.

This package takes a major step forward by providing immediate relief to nearly 60,000 combat-injured veterans, Mr. Speaker. For far too long, medically retired servicemembers wounded in combat have been forced to forfeit a portion of the retirement pay they earned simply because they also receive VA disability compensation, and that is wrong. That is the so-called wounded veteran tax, and it is fundamentally unjust.

These men and women sacrificed their health in defense of our Nation. They earned both benefits, and they deserve to receive both.

This legislation also strengthens veterans' access to healthcare by expanding choice, improves the VA claims and appeals process, and increases support for catastrophically disabled veterans, caregivers, and surviving spouses.

Republicans have been working on these issues for many years, Mr. Speaker, and it looks like it is going to come to fruition. I appreciate it so very much, and I thank the chairman for his leadership.

It enhances mental health services, expands care in rural communities, improves transition assistance for servicemembers entering civilian life, and modernizes VA facilities to better serve future generations.

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Mr. BILIRAKIS. Most importantly, this bill honors the legacy of Major Richard Star, who fought tirelessly to correct this injustice before his passing. His determination has brought us to this moment, and today, we have the opportunity to continue that fight on behalf of thousands of deserving veterans.

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