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BILL POSEY MEMBER OF CONGRESS
15TH DISTRICT, FLORIDA
132 Cannon House Office Building
For Immediate ReleaseWashington, D.C. 20515
January 21, 2010CONTACT: George Cecala (202) 225-3671
Posey Welcomes New Community and Military Affairs Representative MELBOURNE, FL – Congressman Bill Posey (R-Rockledge) will welcome Robert Medina to his district office
staff as the new Community and Military Affairs Representative. He joins the Posey team in a continued effort to increase
community outreach, interaction, and involvement with constituents. “Rob’s experience
as a United States Marine, combined with his extensive knowledge of our local and state government, makes him an ideal candidate
to serve our great veterans and community,” said Congressman Posey. “I am delighted to extend my welcome to Rob
and look forward to working with him to ensure that the promises made to our veterans are kept in good faith.” Mr. Robert Medina is a veteran who served in the United States Marine Corps from 1984-1988. He brings with
him unique and valuable experiences he gained at the State of Florida Department of the Lottery as a marketing consultant,
as well as with the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners as a Commissioner’s Aide to Jackie Colon. As a Military
Affairs Representative, Medina will assist constituents with obtaining military records, VA claim processing, and receipt
of medals that were awarded during service but never received. Medina and fellow Posey
staffer and current Veteran’s Affairs caseworker Chris Hill will work together to provide local veterans with necessary
services and help in resolving benefits related problems with the VA. In addition to his veteran’s affairs responsibilities,
he will also serve as a field representative for community relations. For further information
about services offered to constituents, please visit Congressman Posey’s web-site.
=================================================================== From Senator LeMeuix: |
President Obama's Plan for AfghanistanTuesday night, President Barack Obama outlined
his plan for sending additional U.S. troops to Afghanistan. I visited Afghanistan in late October and met with U.S. troops,
U.S. Commander in Afghanistan General Stanley McChrystal, and U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan Karl Eikenberry. On returning
from Afghanistan, I expressed confidence in General McChrystal's new strategy to seek out terrorists
and use additional troops to hold the Afghan areas we have cleared of enemy combatants. I
am both encouraged and concerned by the President's remarks on the way forward in Afghanistan. I commend the President for
making this difficult decision to increase our troop commitment in Afghanistan. Additional troops are needed to build security
and prevent the Taliban and al Qaeda from again using Afghanistan as a base for terrorism. However, success cannot be measured
by a timetable for withdrawal, but rather must be judged by demonstrated accomplishments in the field. Setting a date certain
for withdrawal only gives our enemies hope to hold out one day longer than our troops are on the ground. We all want our troops home as soon as possible, but if our goal is to leave Afghanistan as a stable
partner in the war on terror, our goal must first be on accomplishing the mission. As a member of the Senate Armed Services
Committee, I look forward to reviewing the details of the President's plan to determine if it is the best approach for our
nation and our security.
=================================================================== November 24, 2009 In this MegaVote for Florida's 12th Congressional District:Recent Congressional Votes - Senate:
Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, 2010
- Senate: Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2009
- House: Fire Grants Reauthorization Act of 2009
Editor's Note: Congress is now in recess for the Thanksgiving holiday. The Senate will return on Monday, November 30, and the House
will return on Tuesday, December 1. | | Recent Senate Votes | | Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, 2010 - Vote Passed (100-0)
The Senate unanimously passed this $133.9 billion bill funding military construction projects and the Department of
Veterans Affairs. The Senate and House will now go to conference to work out differences between their versions of the bill.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
Sen. George LeMieux voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2009 - Vote Passed (98-0, 2 Not Voting)
The Senate passed this bill intended to provide assistance to caregivers of veterans and to improve veterans’
health care. It now goes to the House.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
Sen. George LeMieux voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
| | | Recent House Votes | | Fire Grants Reauthorization Act of 2009 - Vote Passed (395-31, 8 Not Voting)
The House approved this legislation that would reauthorize FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters grants and Staffing
for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response program through FY2014. The bill now goes to the Senate.
Rep. Adam Putnam voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
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Governor Honors Korean War Vets Courtesy
of the Governor’s External Affairs Office TALLAHASSEE -- Gov. Charlie Crist has signed a proclamation commemorating
July 27, 2009, as Korean War Armistice Day. July 27 is the 56th anniversary of the end of the Korean War, which began June 25,
1950. "It is important to continue to promote recognition of the Korean War by providing the American public with
a clearer understanding of the lessons, history, and legacy of the war and its veterans," said Governor Crist.
=================================================================== Bill for Wounded Vets Headed to House Floor
The Wounded Veteran Job Security Act changes
existing employment law to ensure that veterans are able to keep their jobs. The House Committee on Veterans'
Affairs has approved the Wounded Veteran Job Security Act (HR 466). This bill changes existing employment law to ensure that veterans are able to keep their jobs when they seek medical treatment
from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Congressman Doggett introduced the bill in response to concerns from veterans
in his district that were in danger of losing their jobs because treatment for wounds suffered on active duty have exceeded
the maximum number of absences allowed to all employees by the employer.
How do you feel about this action? Let
your public officials know how you feel!
=================================================================== Coffman Asks VA to Investigate Fraudulent POW Claims Department may be paying disability benefits
to non-POWs (WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Two U.S. Representatives, who are both combat veterans, sent a joint letter today
to Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric Shinseki asking him to investigate allegations of fraudulent Prisoner-Of-War (POW) status
claims that have been reported recently in the media. The letter was sent by U.S. Rep. Mike Coffman (R-Colorado), who
served with the U.S. Marine Corps in the first Gulf War and recently in Iraq, and Rep. Jim Marshall (D-GA), who served in
Vietnam as an Army Airborne Ranger reconnaissance platoon sergeant earning two Bronze Stars and a Purple Heart. “As combat veterans, we recognize the unique status and needs of our former military colleagues who were imprisoned
by enemy forces. They bore an extraordinary burden in defending our nation, and they deserve our support. Those who falsely
claim POW status do not deserve the benefits or honors conferred upon former POWs,” Coffman and Marshall wrote in the
letter. According to a recent media report, the Department of Veterans Affairs is paying disability benefits to 286 service
members claiming they were held as prisoners of war during the first Gulf War, but the Department of Defense is only aware
of 21 POWs. The media reports equally disturbing figures for Vietnam POWs: there are only 662 officially recognized
U.S. prisoners of war from that conflict, but 966 alleged Vietnam POWs are getting disability payments. “I
request that the Department of Veterans Affairs investigate these reports and take the appropriate action to curb any fraudulent
claims of POW status,” Coffman said. A copy of the letter is below: # # # # May 18, 2009
The Honorable Eric Shinseki Secretary of Veterans Affairs 810 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20420 Dear
Secretary Shinseki: We are writing to request the Veterans Administration investigate the situation regarding allegations
of fraudulent Prisoner-Of-War (POW) status claims that have been reported recently in the media. According to these reports,
the Department of Veterans Affairs is paying disability benefits to 286 service members allegedly taken prisoner during the
first Gulf War, whereas the Department of Defense only is aware of 21 actual POWs. The media reports equally disturbing
figures for Vietnam POWs: there are only 662 officially recognized U.S. prisoners of war from that conflict, but 966 alleged
Vietnam POWs are getting disability payments. As combat veterans, we recognize the unique status and needs
of our former military colleagues who were imprisoned by enemy forces. They bore an extraordinary burden in defending our
nation, and they deserve our support. Those who falsely claim POW status do not deserve the benefits or honors conferred upon
former POWs. We would expect that your Department would be extremely interested in investigating these allegations
of fraud as soon as possible. We would appreciate hearing from you with your progress in this matter. Thank
you for your service.
Sincerely, Mike Coffman
Jim Marshall Member of Congress
Member of Congress Paul Mandelson Office of Congressman Mike Coffman 508 Longworth
House Office Building Washington,
D.C. 20515(P) 202-225-7882(f) 202-226-4623
=================================================================== April 28, 2009Senator presses Gov. Mabus on strategic dispersal
and future of MayportWASHINGTON -U.S. Senator Mel Martinez (R-FL) today pressed the Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV)-designate,
Gov. Raymond Mabus (D-MS), on the future of Naval Station Mayport in relation to making the facility the home port to a nuclear-powered
aircraft carrier. Martinez stressed the need for the Navy to carry through with its plans to make nuclear upgrades at Mayport
as part of planned strategic dispersal. "Since 1952, we've had two aircraft carrier home ports on the East
Coast. Numerous top officials within our armed services have testified to Congress about the importance of spreading out our
carrier fleet and that Mayport ought to be upgraded so that it can home port a nuclear carrier," said Senator Martinez,
the Ranking Member on the Senate Armed Services Seapower subcommittee.In Gov. Mabus's confirmation hearing before
the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Martinez asked the governor, "What are your intentions with regards to strategic
dispersal of aircraft carriers along the East Coast and would you disagree with the prior three chiefs of naval operations
on their recommendations there should be strategic dispersal of our aircraft carriers?"The SECNAV-designate
responded, "I simply do not have enough information to give you an answer in terms of what the final outcome should be."Senator
Martinez found the answer less than adequate and noted that former Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Vern Clark, former
Secretary of the Navy and Deputy Secretary of Defense Gordon England, SECNAV Donald Winter, and others including current CNO,
ADM Gary Roughead and former CNO and current Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, ADM Michael Mullen have stressed the need to adhere
to strategic dispersal principles.
===================================================================
Brown-Waite: DHS Report Highly Offensive Obama Administration Report labels veterans
“potential terrorists” (WASHINGTON, D.C.) –
U.S. Representative Ginny Brown-Waite (FL-05) today demanded an explanation from the Department of Homeland Security
regarding their labeling of our nation’s veterans as potential “terrorists.” The report also labeled many
commonly held views as “radical,” such as opposition to illegal immigration, the belief in the right of the State
to conduct its own affairs, and the fear of communist regimes. “I
am astonished and offended that this Administration would label the men and women who so bravely wore our nation’s uniform
as possible terrorists,” Rep. Brown-Waite said today. “The lumping of these members of the Armed Forces
in with mad-men like Timothy McVeigh is not only morally reproachable, but intellectually disingenuous.” The report titled “Rightwing Extremism: Current Economic and Political Climate Fueling
Resurgence in Radicalization and Recruitment” was released last week by DHS’ Office of Intelligence and Analysis.
It suggested acts of violence could come from unnamed “rightwing extremists” concerned about illegal immigration,
increasing federal power, and restrictions on firearms. It singled out returning war veterans as susceptible to recruitment. Rep. Brown-Waite authored a letter to Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano demanding clarification on how and
why her department came to these offensive conclusions.
=================================================================== National
Journal “Six Degrees of Legislation:” Helping Women Vets Rise Above Homelessness In
January, Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite joined with Congressman Steve Buyer (D-IN) to create a program to help homeless veterans,
specifically woman. This week, the National Journal’s new online feature “Six Degrees of Legislation” has
a moving piece on the bill and the greater issue of homeless female vets. Please click here to take a look. http://www.nationaljournal.com/njonline/no_20090420_5452.php
=================================================================== From the Office of Senator Mel Martinez The 2009 Academy Application Form is now available. Senator Martinez accepts applications from
outstanding Florida students who wish to attend our U.S. Service Academies: the Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, the
Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, the Military Academy at West Point, and the Naval Academy at Annapolis. For information
regarding admissions requirements to these academies, please visit the following Web sites: http://martinez.senate.gov/public/?p=AcademyNominations
===================================================================
Even though Senator Richard Burr in not from Polk County - he has stepped up to protect the Veterans of Polk County. Legislation would end arbitrary process that strips veterans of rightsToday, U.S. Senator Richard
Burr (R-NC), along with 14 other cosponsors, introduced legislation that would end an arbitrary process through which the
government strips veterans and other Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) beneficiaries of their Second Amendment rights. Under
current practice, veterans who have a fiduciary appointed to act on their behalf are deemed “mentally defective”
and are reported to the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), a system which prevents individuals
from purchasing firearms in the United States. The Veterans’ Second Amendment Protection Actwould
require a judicial authority to determine that a VA beneficiary poses a danger to themselves or others before VA may send
their names to be listed in the FBI’s NICS.
“Under current law, veterans who have come to VA for help
but who are determined to be unable to manage their own financial affairs are labeled as mentally defective and, on that basis
alone, are denied their 2nd amendment rights,” Burr said. “I am very concerned that
government employees can so easily take away a veteran’s right to bear arms. My legislation would
protect the rights of veterans and their families by ensuring that only a proper judicial authority is able to determine who
is referred to NICS.”
The Federal Gun Control Act prohibits certain individuals who have been deemed a “mental
defective” from purchasing a firearm. Over 116,000 people who receive VA benefits have been reported
to NICS since 1999, stripping them of their constitutional rights simply because VA appointed a fiduciary to act on their
behalf. A fiduciary is assigned to handle disability compensation, pensions, survivors’ compensation, and other VA payments
on behalf of a veteran, surviving spouse, dependent child, or dependent parent. VA's review process
for assigning a fiduciary is meant to determine one's ability to manage VA-provided cash assistance. The process does
not determine whether they are a danger to themselves or others.
“Taking away a Constitutional right is a
serious action and veterans should be afforded due process under the law. Our veterans took an oath to
uphold the Constitution and they deserve to enjoy the rights they fought so hard to protect,” Burr added. During the 110th Congress, the Veterans’ Second Amendment Protection Act was offered by Senator
Burr as an amendment at a Veterans’ Affairs Committee markup. The measure was approved in Committee
but did not receive consideration by the full Senate. The
bill is supported by The American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, AMVETS, and the Military Order
of the Purple Heart.
===================================================================
President
Obama Heeds Veterans and Brown-Waite’s Warnings White House scraps plans to charge veterans for treatment of war wounds (WASHINGTON, D.C.) – President Obama and the White House announced they will no longer
pursue their plan to shirk the government’s fundamental responsibility to care for our wounded veterans, heeding a chorus
of outrage from U.S. Representative Ginny Brown-Waite (FL-05) and leading veterans’ organizations. “Though alarming he even considered the idea, President Obama made the right decision.
The courageous young Americans serving our country today can rest assured; their care will be provided for when they come
home,” Rep. Brown Waite said today. “I will never stop fighting to ensure we uphold our fundamental obligations
to our veterans.” Yesterday, Brown-Waite spoke out on the House floor to express her outrage at the news. She also authored a letter to President Obama adamantly opposing his attempt to shift the burden of veteran’s
health care to private insurance and veterans’ themselves. The Obama
plan would have charged a veteran’s private insurance for treatment of combat related injuries, resulting in higher
premiums for vets with service related disabilities and discouraging employers from hiring veterans out of fear of the cost
burden. National veterans’ organizations such as the American Legion and Disabled American Veterans strongly opposed
the move.
=================================================================== Posey Opposed
to New Plan to Make Wounded Vets Pay for Service Injuries WASHINGTON,
DC – Congressman Bill Posey (R-Rockledge) said today he will vigorously oppose a proposal by the Administration that
would require injured military service veterans to pay for a portion of their medical care. The Obama Administration
has outlined a proposal in their budget that would force veterans’ personal insurance plans to pay for the costs of
treating service-connected disabilities and injuries. Under the plan personal insurance - the premiums of which are
paid for by veterans - would be required to pay the VA for service connected medical care veterans receive at VA medical facilities. “I couldn’t agree more with American Legion Commander
David Rehbein who said after a meeting at the White House on Monday, ‘the United States Government sent the members
of the armed forces into harm’s way, and not private insurance companies’,” said Rep. Posey. “This
proposal would essentially ask combat injured veterans to pick up part of the costs of the medical care associated with their
injuries. This is flat out wrong.” Monday’s meeting followed a letter sent
to the White House earlier this month from the American Legion and other veterans service organizations stating in part, “There
is simply no logical explanation for billing a veteran’s personal insurance for care that the VA has a responsibility
to provide….placing the burden of these fiscal problems on men and women who have already sacrificed a great deal for
this country is unconscionable.” The Administration’s proposal could
adversely impact veterans in several ways including: causing veterans to reach lifetime maximum insurance coverage limits
and leading to them paying for the care associated with treating their own injuries through paying deductibles and higher
premiums. Current policy holds that the United States government is to
care for “him who shall have borne the battle”. This plan violates that principle.
=================================================================== Brown-Waite: We Cannot Put Health Care Burden on Our Vets Administration plan to bill veterans for care
of war injuries is disgraceful (WASHINGTON, D.C.) –
U.S. Representative Ginny Brown-Waite (FL-05) today expressed outrage at news President Obama plans to shirk the
government’s fundamental responsibility to care for our wounded veterans. The Administration made it clear yesterday
they plan to move forward with a proposal to force veterans’ private insurance to pick up treatment costs of service
related disabilities and injuries. “The men and women who so bravely
defend our country pay the price of combat with their bodies and souls. Providing their care when they return home is our
sacred duty and national promise,” Brown-Waite said today. “I will not let this stand. President Obama must live
up to his campaign promise that ‘we enter into a sacred trust with [our vets] from the moment
[they] put on that uniform.’” The Obama plan would charge
a veteran’s private insurance for treatment of combat related injuries, resulting in higher premiums for vets with service
related disabilities and discouraging employers from hiring veterans out of fear of the cost burden. National veterans’
organizations such as the American Legion and Disabled American Veterans strongly oppose the move. Rep. Brown-Waite is authoring a letter to President Obama today adamantly opposing the Administration’s
attempt to shift the burden of veteran’s health care to private insurance and veterans’ themselves.
=================================================================== LEGISLATION INTRODUCED TO SECURE TIMELY FUNDING FOR VETERANS’ HEALTH
CARE House and Senate Veterans’ Affairs Chairmen joined by bipartisan cosponsors, major veterans’ organizations and a former VA official in calling for passageFebruary 12, 2009 WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S.
Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-HI), Chairman of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, was joined by a bipartisan group of lawmakers
in reintroducing legislation today to secure timely funding for veterans' health care through the advance appropriations
process. Chairman Akaka joined House Veterans' Affairs Chairman Bob Filner (D-CA), other members of Congress, leaders
from military and veteran organizations, and a former VA executive in calling for prompt consideration of the Veterans
Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act of 2009. Under
the bill, the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) would be funded one-year ahead of the regular federal funding process.
Currently, VHA's budget is subject to delay and uncertainty, hampering budget planning and threatening health care quality
for wounded and indigent veterans. The Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act has already received
broad support from its Democratic, Republican, and Independent sponsors in Congress. Senator Akaka said: "We are a step closer towards securing timely, predictable funding for the nation's
largest health care system - the Veterans Health Administration. Our plan would create a transparent process that will
help VA use its funding more efficiently and care for veterans more effectively than it has in the past. I am proud
to be joined by a bipartisan group of Congressional leaders and major veterans service organizations in calling for an end
to VHA's unpredictable funding." Congressman
Filner said: "I appreciate the sentiments of Secretary Shinseki to approve and implement future VA budgets on
time, but we must also recognize the various obstacles that frequently prevent this from happening. This bill is a way
to explore a new manner in which to fund the VA. We need to consider a historic new approach to guarantee that our veterans
have access to comprehensive, quality health care that they deserve and have earned. For too many years, VA has had
to make do with insufficient budgets resulting in restricted access for many veterans. When funding is short, it is
our veterans who pay the price." Senator Olympia
Snowe (R-ME) said: "The breakdown in the process of providing funding for our veterans has a bipartisan history
spanning over two decades - under Republican and Democratic control of the White House and Congress. However during
this time, health care funding for veterans has only been approved on schedule three times! This is unconscionable.
With this bipartisan initiative, we can ensure our veterans and their families truly benefit from the healthcare that these
patriots have rightfully earned and deserve." Senator
Jon Tester (D-MT) said: "It's about time we take the uncertainty out of the annual funding for VA health
care. Making sure all veterans have access to quality, affordable health care-so they don't have to come to Congress
every year with hat-in-hand-is a promise we owe all men and women who served in uniform." Congressman Phil Hare (D-IL) said: "Like the mandatory funding legislation I introduced in the last
Congress, advanced appropriations is the means to an end. That end is ensuring veterans receive the best care possible from
a VA that has access to timely, sufficient, and predictable resources. I enthusiastically support this bill and commend Chairmen
Akaka and Filner for introducing it." Senator
Mary Landrieu (D-LA) said: "One of the best ways we can honor the service of our brave veterans is by providing
them with the high-quality health care and services they need. Advance funding for veterans health care will allow the
VA to make strategic budgetary decisions that will improve the care provided to our veterans." Senator Bernard Sanders (I-VT) said: "The VA needs to receive its
budget in advance so it can hire the right number of staff to take care of our veterans without waiting for Congress to pass
their spending bill. How can we expect the second largest agency in the federal government, which provides health care
to over 5.5 million people, to function when they don't know when they will get their budget? That is why the time for
advanced funding for the VA has come. I look forward to working with the president, Secretary Shinseki, Chairman Akaka
and our nation's veterans' service organizations to make sure this bill is signed into law this Congress." Senator Mark Begich (D-AK) said: "Our veterans deserve to know
that they will receive the health care they need in a timely and predictable fashion. This is just one small way we can thank
them for their service to our country. By authorizing two-year budget authority for the VA, the nation's largest
health care provider will have the funding and stability to adequately plan and prepare to deliver a level of service and
care that our nation's veterans so richly deserve and have so honorably earned." Senator Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ) said: "We owe our veterans and their families the best quality care
we can provide. Our soldiers and sailors do their duty to protect America, so it's our duty to provide for them
when they return home." Senator Barbara Boxer
(D-CA) said: "Setting funding two years in advance will help ensure that no veteran is ever turned away, and I am
pleased to support this important legislation introduced by Senator Akaka." Congressman Mike Michaud (D-ME), Chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Health, said:
"Too often in recent years, VA has been funded after the beginning of the fiscal year and in one case, so underfunded
that they required a supplemental appropriation. This cannot be allowed to occur when we are dealing with the health
care of our veterans. There must be a timely, sufficient, and predictable funding stream for VA health care. That
is what this legislation will achieve." Senator
David Vitter (R-LA) said: "Veterans' health care is a particularly important issue, and as our servicemembers
return from combat theatres in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Veterans' Administration has seen a significant growth in demand
for health services. Historically, the VA's health care budget has been delivered late, and appropriations
levels have been often too low. This bill would allow the VA to plan better by allowing appropriations to be made for
the upcoming and following fiscal years." The Veterans
Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act is supported by the Partnership for Veterans Health Care Budget Reform, a coalition of major veterans service organizations including The American Legion, AMVETS, Blinded Veterans of America,
Disabled Veterans of America, Jewish War Veterans, the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Paralyzed Veterans of America,
Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Vietnam Veterans of America. The bill received unanimous support from a panel of six veterans organizations at a recent Senate hearing
=================================================================== REP. BROWN-WAITE TO HOST SECOND ANNUAL VETERAN BENEFIT RESOURCE FAIR One-Stop Resource Fair for All Veteran Related Needs (WASHINGTON,
D.C.) – U.S. Representative Ginny Brown-Waite (FL-05) will host her second annual
veteran benefit resource fair this Saturday, January 31st at the Nature Coast Technical High School
in Brooksville. This year’s fair will feature representatives from local and national veteran agencies, and provide
information and assistance, including: Veteran Claims services, Education Benefits, Employment Services, Housing/Social Services
and Medical/Dental Services. Some of the highlights at this year’s fair will be the Blood Mobile to make a donation,
as well as taping opportunities for the Veterans History Project. “5th District veterans will once again have an opportunity to participate in a great event that
provides a wealth of information about the services and benefits available to veterans,” said Rep. Brown-Waite.
“Area residents, whether they are a veteran or know someone who served our country with honor and distinction, are invited
to come out to the fair and get some information about resources available to veterans and their families.” The veteran resource fair will feature officials from the
Department of Veterans Affairs, local VSO officers and members of Rep. Brown-Waite’s staff, all in one place to support
America’s heroes. Veterans are invited to join their friends and neighbors Saturday, January 31st
at the Nature Coast Technical High School, located at 4057 California Street in Brooksville, just off Spring Hill Drive.
As a leading advocate for veterans, Rep. Brown-Waite
wants to ensure all 5th District veterans have information about claims services, education, employment and housing
resources, as well as medical and dental benefits. Also, if veterans are interested in giving their videotaped story
for the Veterans History Project, please contact the Congresswoman’s office toll-free at (866) 492-4835. DATE:
Saturday, January 31, 2009 TIME: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm LOCATION: Nature Coast Technical
High School 4057 California Street Brooksville,
FL WHO: Rep. Ginny Brown-Waite
*Invited Groups and Organizations Listed Below are Subject to Change* Scheduled to Attend: Central High School – Color Guard and Drill Teams **Casie Wagner – will sing
National Anthem – student and member of ROTC** Springstead High School – AF Jr. ROTC Color Guard – James A. Haley VA Hospital Confirmed: Homeless Veteran Advocate,
Mobile Health Screening – Mobile Clinic, Oral Cancer Screening – Dental, Enrollment/ Eligibility, Voluntary Services,
OIF/OEF Program, Patient Advocate, My HealthyVet, MCCF-Collections & Fee Basis, CBOC’s, Women Veterans, Tampa Vet
Center, Patient Education Resources, and Mental Health & BS. Hernando County Sheriff’s Office –will handle traffic control EMT – Hernando County Fire and Rescue –
will be onsite CERT
Department of Veterans
Affairs Humana Military
Healthcare Services Hernando
County Health Department WWJB
Radio Career Central
VFW Post 10209 VFW Post 10209 Ladies Auxiliary DAV Post 67 Property Appraisers Office Hernando County Veteran Service Office Health and Human Services –
Also coordinating Canned Food Drive Alzheimer’s Association – Memory Mobile Lighthouse for the Blind NSVA Seabees Island X6 FL National Cemetery Brooksville Elks #2582 Catholic Charities DOSP – Respite Program for
Alzheimer’s patients Marine
Corps League Detachment Dan T. Daly #1002 Lea’s Prayers and Postage VFW Post 8713 –supplying flags for event Women’s Army Corps Veterans Association (WACS) – Chapter 97 Gulf Coast WAVES Unit #127 Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776 –
MOPH Commander of MOPH
has approved the FL DVA Afghanistan/Iraq War Memorial Portrait Mural honoring the memory of Florida’s fallen service
members. The mural is the first memorial to bear both the engraved names and portraits of those Floridians who have
made the ultimate sacrifice during the Global War on Terrorism. Military Appreciation Show – WWJB Sons of the Confederate Veterans Florida Department of Veterans Affairs The Harbor Citrus County Veteran Service Office LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, Inc. – Blood Mobile West Central Chapter – Military Officers
Association of America NCTHS – Video Production Dept Hernando Pasco Hospice Military Officers Association of America – Citrus County & West Central MOAA Chapter Family Readiness Group Gifts from Home Griffith Family Dentistry Veterans History Project
=================================================================== REP. BROWN-WAITE INTRODUCES 4 BILLS ON FIRST DAY OF NEW CONGRESS Congresswoman is Ready to Hit
the Ground Running on Behalf of Her 5th District Constituents (WASHINGTON, D.C.) – On the first day of session, U.S. Representative Ginny Brown-Waite
(FL-05) introduced her first four bills of the 111th Congress. These bills reflect the priorities
of the 5th District and demonstrate Rep. Brown-Waite’s commitment to the needs of her constituents.
Descriptions of each of the bills are included below. “I didn’t
come to Congress to sit on the sidelines and let others do the heavy lifting. I came here to pass legislation that helps
my constituents and meets the needs of all Americans,” said Rep. Brown-Waite. “These first few bills reflect
the unique nature of the 5th District and what our State wants accomplished in the next two years. Whether
it is a permanent repeal of the marriage penalty, better health care from the VA, lower homeowner’s insurance rates,
or recognition for past military accomplishments, 5th District constituents know they can count on Ginny Brown-Waite
to stand up for them in the U.S. House.” Veterans Timely Access to Healthcare Act
With more than 110,000 veterans living in the 5th District,
former members of the United States military are a major legislative focus for Rep. Brown-Waite. This legislation allows
veterans to be reimbursed for seeking medical treatment outside the Veterans Affairs (VA) health care system if they are unable
to get an appointment within thirty days at a VA facility. A senior member of the House Veteran’s Affairs Committee,
Rep. Brown-Waite worked with her colleagues to hold a hearing on this legislation in 2007. This bill was numbered H.R.
92 in the last Congress. Homeowners Insurance Protection Act As the recognized leader on catastrophic insurance proposals in the U.S. House,
Rep. Brown-Waite had significant success during the 110th Congress when her legislation creating a national catastrophe
fund successfully passed the House. Building on this record of success, this year’s legislation is modeled on
her previous bill, and will once again create a national catastrophic insurance fund to sell low-cost reinsurance contracts
to state catastrophe funds. The savings would then be passed along to individuals, helping lower homeowner’s insurance
rates and keeping insurers from leaving volatile markets. This bill was numbered H.R. 91 in the last Congress. Army
Combat Action Badge The Combat Action Badge
provides special recognition to soldiers who, after September 18, 2001, personally engage the enemy during combat operations.
While the Combat Action Badge recognizes those who have served their country bravely since September 18, 2001, it overlooks
the thousands of veterans who made similar sacrifices in previous wars. Rep. Brown-Waite’s legislation will expand
the eligibility for the Badge to include those who served from December 7, 1941, to September 18, 2001. This bill was
included as part of the 2009 Defense Authorization bill that passed the House, but was removed by Democrat leaders in the
Senate prior to final passage. This bill was numbered H.R. 2267 in the last Congress. Marriage
Tax Penalty Elimination Act With hundreds of
thousands of families living in the 5th District, Rep. Brown-Waite has worked to reduce taxes and make the tax
code more equitable. This legislation would permanently eliminate the tax provisions that unfairly penalize married
couples for filing jointly, commonly known as the marriage penalty. Removing this penalty will introduce equity to the
tax code and help struggling families meet their financial obligations. This bill was introduced in the 110th
Congress by former Rep. Jerry Weller and was numbered H.R. 834.
============================================= MARTINEZ INTRODUCES
EFFORT TO EXTEND AUTISTIC COVERAGE Measure seeks to extend insurance coverage for dependents of retired military
September 26, 2008 - WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Mel Martinez
(R-FL) today introduced a bill to extend coverage to the autistic dependents of retired active duty members of the military
being treated with Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA). ABA is a treatment for individuals with symptoms of autism, and has
been shown to provide significant changes in behavior patterns for those who suffer from autism and related disorders.
“Currently there are over 8,000 military retirees with children who have been diagnosed with autism,”
said Martinez. “Extending coverage in this way will provide a great number of children with the treatment and therapy
they need to help them manage their disease. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation and give the children of our
men and women in uniform the care they require.”
Under the Department of Defense’s current health
care program, TRICARE, only active-duty members of the Armed Services can receive ABA benefits for their dependents. This
legislation will extend this benefit to those service members who have retired from the military.
============================================= Op-Ed Commemorating
Constitution and Citizenship Day – September 17, 2008 535 words Few documents changed the world more than the Constitution of the United States. Prior
to the United States Declaration of Independence and the signing of the Constitution, people had for centuries lived in counties
without personal rights and without a democratic form of government. All that changed when the Constitutional Convention
adopted the United States Constitution on September 17, 1787 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. For the first time in history, one nation’s citizens freely agreed to a democratic form
of self governance. Today we take our rights and freedoms and form of government for granted. But 221 years ago
the concept of three separate but equal branches of government was a revolutionary concept. The Constitution was the
framework for our entire government and paved the way for the Bill of Rights and the eventual expansion to today’s 50
states. That is why the United States now commemorates
the anniversary of the signing of the Constitution each September 17th. In 2004 the senior Senator from West
Virginia, Robert Byrd, passed an amendment that created a national holiday to recognize the Constitution and the benefits
of citizenship. A noted historian, Senator Byrd thought, and I agreed with him when I voted for the bill, that today’s
youth do not learn enough about the foundations of our republic and the history of the Constitution. This September 17 schools throughout Florida will take a moment to teach their students about
the founding fathers, the history behind the signing and ratification of the Constitution, and why our nation is the greatest
democratic republic in the history of the world. Teachers and families across the country can use this day as a teaching
opportunity for the next generation of American citizens. Without a firm foundation in American history and its founding
documents, our country will lose some of our national identity and core beliefs. I was proud to vote for something that
expanded the learning opportunities for our children and taught them about the history of our great nation. Doing my part to help 5th District residents celebrate the U.S. Constitution, its
history and values, I will be making free copies of the Constitution available to all residents throughout the month of September.
You may pick up your copy at either my Brooksville or Dade City district offices, call and have one mailed to you, or receive
one at any of my outreach meetings throughout the eight counties that make up our congressional district. For more information
about when and where to get your copy, please call me toll-free at (866) 492-4835. The last 221 years have seen our nation progress from thirteen independent states to a global
superpower defending freedoms and liberties throughout the world. Our republic was built on the framework outlined in
the Constitution, and has lasted throughout wars, economic downturns and even civil war. But today the United States
of America is strong, and one of the main reasons for our success is because of the signing of the Constitution. I hope
that all 5th District residents take a moment this September 17th to re-read the Constitution, pick
up a new copy from my office, and talk to your children about what this document means to all Americans. Ginny Brown-Waite Member of Congress (FL-05)
============================================= HARVEY F. WAITE
PASSES AWAY (WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Sadly, the
office of Rep. Ginny Brown-Waite announces that the Congresswoman’s husband of thirty years, Harvey Waite, passed away
today following a bout with pancreatic cancer. At the time of his passing Harvey was surrounded by his loved ones at
their home in Brooksville, Florida. Harvey was born in Bayshore on Long Island, New
York on January 2, 1940. He served in the United States Army from 1958 to 1961, doing part of his tour stationed overseas
in Japan. Returning to New York after his military service, Harvey joined the New York State Police, where he enjoyed
a long and distinguished career as a State Trooper. Following his retirement from the State,
Harvey and Ginny moved to Florida, eventually settling in Hernando County in 1995. Active in many local organizations,
Harvey was particularly proud of his service to St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, his membership in the Nature Coast British
Car Club, and the 10-13 Club of Hernando County. Prior to his cancer diagnosis, Harvey also worked as an Investigator
in the Public Defenders Office. As an usher at St. Anthony’s Church, Harvey was able to continue
his service to God. A lifelong Catholic, Harvey’s funeral service will be held at St. Anthony’s. Harvey
was also an active member of the Nature Coast British Car Club. He and Ginny would show their red 1959 MGA at Club meetings,
and Harvey would often be seen tooling around town with the top down. Always described as the handsomest man
on the block wherever he lived, Harvey was a friend to everyone he met and always had a kind word and a quick smile.
Known for being handy with his tools, when Harvey reaches the gates of Heaven, St. Peter will probably say, “Welcome
Harve...it is good to finally have someone who can fix the Gates.” Harvey
is survived by his loving spouse, Virginia “Ginny” Brown-Waite, sister Barbara Webber of North Carolina, and brother
Wayne Waite of New York. He is also survived by their three children Danene Mitchell and her husband Joe, Lorie Busiere
and her husband Randy, and Jeannine O’Neill, as well as their four grandchildren Shawn Solomon, Justin Busiere, Christopher
Busiere and Autumn Mitchell. Please note
the following information about funeral services and visitation for Harvey Waite. If you have any questions, please
feel free to call me during business hours at 202-226-3017 or in the evening at 202-225-4345 on my cell.
Charlie
What: Visitation When: 3:00 – 6:00 pm
Friday, August 22, 2008 Where:
St. Anthony’s Catholic Church 20428
Cortez Blvd Brooksville,
FL 34601
What: Funeral Services When: 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Friday, August 22, 2008 Where:
St. Anthony’s Catholic Church 20428
Cortez Blvd Brooksville,
FL 34601
Notes: there will be a gathering following the
service at Heffernan Hall adjacent to the Church
Flowers may be sent to: Turner Funeral Home
504 East Jefferson Street Brooksville,
FL
If
people would prefer to make a donation, the family asks that you send all gifts to Hernando Pasco Hospice.
http://www.hphospice.org/ Hernando-Pasco
Hospice 12107
Majestic Blvd. Hudson, FL 34667 Ph: 800-486-8784 Fx: 727-868-9261 ============================================= INCREASE FOR DISABLED VETERANS July 31, 2008 WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-HI), Chairman
of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, issued the following statement regarding the Senate's passage of S. 2617, the Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2008, last night by unanimous
consent. "I commend my colleagues for passing the Veterans'
Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2008. Many veterans and their survivors count on these monthly payments
to get by, and in these hard times, we must not allow rising costs to eat away at their spending power. For veterans
and their survivors who rely on their compensation, including nearly 18,000 served by VA's regional office in my home
state of Hawaii, this COLA is the least we can do," said Akaka. S. 2617, introduced by Senator Akaka, will adjust veterans' compensation rates to keep pace with inflation, effective
December 1, 2008. According to recent data provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs, this increase will go to
2.8 million veterans and over 300,000 surviving spouses receiving dependency and indemnity compensation. The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for their consideration.
While this year's cost-of-living increase has yet to be determined, the Congressional Budget Office has projected a 2.8
percent increase. Last year's increase was 2.3 percent.
=============================================
(WASHINGTON,
D.C.) – U.S. Representative Ginny Brown-Waite (FL-05) today reminded 5th
District high school students interested in applying to one of the service academies that all completed applications must
be postmarked and mailed to her office no later than November 8, 2008. Complete information on the application process,
as well as a copy of the application, may be found on Rep. Brown-Waite’s website at http://brown-waite.house.gov/ConstituentServices/serviceacademynominations.htm. “Having
sponsored many upstanding young men and women for service academy positions over the past five years, I know that 5th
District students are well qualified for leadership positions in the United States military,” said Rep. Brown-Waite.
“I hope that 5th District students interested in attending a service academy will contact my office to learn
more about the process and how to complete the application.” The application process for the Class of 2013 began with the release of Ginny's service academy
application on April 1, 2008. Please click here to view a copy and a list of procedures. General information about the application process may be found below.
The deadline for completed applications to be postmarked and in the mail to Rep. Brown-Waite’s office is November 8,
2008.
The Nomination Process
To be considered for an appointment to a service academy, an applicant must meet the eligibility requirements
established by law and be nominated from an authorized person including a Member of the United States Senate or the House
of Representatives. Rep. Brown-Waite may nominate applicants who are legally domiciled within the boundaries of
the 5th District of Florida.
Who Is Eligible?
An applicant for
a nomination must meet the following eligibility requirements as of July 1 of the year of admission to a service academy.
He or she must be at least 17 years old, but not have passed the 23rd birthday, must be a United States citizen,
and must be unmarried, not pregnant, and have no legal obligation to support children or other dependents.
Applying
To Rep. Brown-Waite’s Office For A Nomination
Students interested in a nomination should contact
the Congresswoman’s Brooksville office in the spring of their junior year in high school. Also, please note
that it is extremely important that the student begin the application process with the academies themselves.
Service
Academies
There
are five Service Academies: The United States Air Force (USAFA), Naval (USNA), Military (USMA), Merchant Marine (USMMA), and
Coast Guard (USCGA) Academies. Nominations are required for all but the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, to which appointments
are made on the basis of an annual nationwide competition.
As far as the USAFA, USNA, and USMA are concerned,
there are various nomination authorities, with each eligible young person being able to apply to both United States Senators
from the applicant's state, his or her United States Representative, and the Vice President (if very highly qualified).
The other nomination categories are military-affiliated.
With respect to the Congressional category, each Representative
and each Senator is allowed to have at each of those academies at any one time five persons charged to his or her quota.
There are three methods of nominating, and Ginny uses the competitive method. For each vacancy, ten nominations may
be made on a strictly competitive basis. The competitive method provides that the nominees compete among themselves for final
appointment determined by the admissions authorities. They take into consideration a nominee's academic record, extracurricular
and athletic activities, physical aptitude, ACT and/or SAT scores, leadership ability, and medical qualifications. Such facets
of an applicant's record are also considered during the nomination selection process. No person will be offered admission
if he or she does not meet the physical standards of the Academy unless awarded a medical waiver.
As competition
for nomination and appointment is very keen, it is wise for all interested persons to apply through all sources for which
they are eligible and for all Academies in which they have a real interest. An individual may be nominated by more than
one nominating authority and/or to more than one Academy.
With regard to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, the
locality boundary for nomination by a Representative is the State in which the District lies rather than just the District
itself. Each Representative and each Senator may nominate ten candidates each year to compete for admission.
List of Academies and Contact Information
United States Air Force Academy
HQ USAFA/RRS 1-800-443-9266
2304 Cadet Drive, Suite 200
USAF Academy , Colorado 80840-5025
Website: www.usafa.edu/rr/
United States Coast Guard Academy
Director of Admissions 1-800-883-USCG
United States Coast Guard Academy
15 Mohegan Avenue
New London , Connecticut 06320-4195
Website: www.cga.edu
United States Merchant Marine Academy
Admissions Office 845-938-4041
U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
Steamboat Road
Kings Point , New York 11024-1699
Website: www.usmma.edu
United States Military Academy
Attn: Director of Admissions 845-938-4361
United States Military Academy
Official Mail and Distribution Center
546 Swift Road
West Point , New
York 10996-9902
Website: www.usma.edu/admissions
United States Naval Academy
United States Navel Academy
117 Decatur Road
Annapolis , Maryland 21402-5018
Website: www.usna.edu
=============================================
O&I Subcommittee
Looks at VA Media Outreach to Veterans Washington, D.C. —The Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations held a hearing
yesterday, July 15, 2008, on the implementation of the recent decision by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to use television
advertising and marketing in its outreach plan toward veterans. The Subcommittee used the hearing as a vital opportunity
to ensure that the VA was using the proper scientific based research to implement its outreach policy, and not wasting taxpayer
funds. Currently, VA does not use national media campaigns to advertise its benefits and services to veterans. As
part of its long-range planning document, the VA was prohibited from using television advertising to notify veterans about
services offered at VA hospitals, Community Based Outpatient Clinics and Vet Centers. Following the introduction of
legislation from U.S. Representatives John Boozman (R-Ark.) and Stephanie Herseth Sandlin (D-S.D.), the VA has changed policy
and is in the process of implementing a plan to begin mass advertising. “As we heard from the witnesses yesterday, the VA clearly needs
to enter the 21st Century when it comes to notifying veterans about services available to these American heroes,”
said Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee Ranking Member Ginny Brown-Waite (R-Fla.).
“It is mind-boggling to me that it has taken until 2008 for the VA to even consider television advertising, and has
yet to even contemplate using e-mail as a way to quickly and cheaply communicate with veterans. It was heartening that
Secretary Peake has removed the prohibition on television advertising, but very distressing that they aren’t even collecting
e-mail addresses for veterans.” In the past, VA policy barred purchasing paid media to advertise. On June 16, 2008,
Secretary James Peake issued a memorandum rescinding the twenty-year VA imposed policy restriction on the purchase of paid
media advertising. “Getting the word out about veteran benefits to our nation’s heroes should be a high priority for the
Department of Veterans Affairs,” said Rep. Brown-Waite. “Printing brochures and handbooks in
this day of the internet and instant messaging is still a very expensive option, but 21st Century technology needs
to be explored. As we heard at the hearing, the VA needs to quickly move beyond snail mail and television and embrace
e-communication as a way to reach veterans. This would create new efficiencies, save taxpayer funds, and provide information
and resources veterans are seeking.” Witnesses on the first panel also discussed the need for a comprehensive plan to implement
the television advertising. Dr. Ronald C. Goodstein, of Georgetown University, a renowned scholar in mass communications
and survey research, warned VA that prior to any mass advertising, it must first do quantitative and qualitative research
to determine what services are most requested by veterans.
“While television advertising is a great new tool for VA,
it must be implemented in a scientifically appropriate manner,” continued Rep. Brown-Waite. “As
we heard from the panel, it is more important to offer products and services that veterans want and are interested in, rather
than just presenting generic commercials that will fall flat and waste taxpayer funds. As the VA moves forward with
its implementation, I trust that they will utilize the available survey research previously conducted on veterans and their
needs, and utilize it in their media rollout. Otherwise, the VA will just be spinning its wheels and wasting further
resources.”
=============================================
MARTINEZ STATEMENT ON RE-ESTABLISHMENT OF 4TH FLEET IN JACKSONVILLE
July 12, 2008
- WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Mel Martinez (R-FL) today issued the following statement regarding the Navy’s
re-establishment of the 4th Fleet at Naval Station Mayport.
Senator Martinez said:
“Florida is
proud to be the home to the 4th Fleet. I commend the Navy’s decision to re-establish the 4th Fleet in Jacksonville,
which demonstrates Mayport’s strategic importance to the region and national security.
“The fleet’s
location in Jacksonville will provide tremendous support to the U.S. Southern Command’s leadership, help to maintain
national security, and enhance the United States’ humanitarian efforts throughout the Americas.
“I
congratulate the fleet’s first commander, Rear Adm. Joseph D. Kernan and the people of Jacksonville as the 4th Fleet
returns to the United States Navy once again.”
2008-07-15 13:47:51
=============================================
From the Office of Senator Mel Martinez
Mr. Lewis faced outstanding debt to the Veterans
Administration (VA).
Several years ago, Mr. Lewis divorced and changed his dependent status with the
VA. However, he recently received notice from the VA stating he had not changed his status and, as a result, had received
dependent overpayments dating back to his divorce. Mr. Lewis applied for a waiver but it was denied. He contacted the Office
of Senator Martinez for assistance.
A caseworker contacted the VA and arranged for a reduced payment based on Mr.
Lewis' financial hardship. Additionally, Mr. Lewis was able to submit another waiver request to the VA Committee on Waivers
and Compromises that included additional documentation proving he informed the VA in a timely manner of his change in status.
It was determined that a technical error resulted in the overpayment and his debt was erased. Mr. Lewis has since received
a check returning the money that he paid while his waiver was under review.
If you have questions about a federal agency, please contact the
Orlando Regional Office by calling (407) 254-2573 to speak with a member of the Casework Department. The toll-free number
for Florida residents is (866) 630-7106. To find out more about how my Office can help you, go to http://martinez.senate.gov or stop by one of our scheduled Community Office Hours in your area.
*Casework Corner is a real account of assistance provided to constituents. The names
of those involved are changed to protect the privacy of the constituent.
2008-07-15 13:47:34
=============================================
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Charlie Keller July 9, 2008 (202) 226-3017 REP. BROWN-WAITE ANNOUNCES NEW VETERAN CENTERS IN PASCO AND POLK
COUNTIES
Congresswoman
Worked with VA to Show the Need for New Facilities in the 5th District and Surrounding Areas
(WASHINGTON,
D.C.) - U.S. Representative Ginny Brown-Waite (FL-05) today announced that the Department of veterans Affairs
(VA) will be placing several new Veteran Centers in Florida, including ones in Pasco and Polk County. Of the thirty-nine
new Vet Centers coming nationwide, six of them will be placed in Florida alone. The Ranking Member on the House Veterans'
Affairs Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, Rep. Brown-Waite brought the strong need for new Centers in her District
to the VA's attention and worked closely with the VA to ensure that 5th District veterans were strongly considered
for new facilities.
"With the second highest number of veterans of any congressional district in the
nation, there is a continuing need for increased services for my 5th District veteran population," said Rep.
Brown-Waite. "Given that need, I set up several meetings with the VA to impress upon them the need for additional
centers in Florida, and I am very pleased to see that both Pasco and Polk Counties will receive new facilities. These
community-based Vet Centers are well used and much appreciated by my veterans, and are especially important for the large
numbers of Vietnam veterans in my district, as well as the growing numbers of returning veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan."
Currently there are more than 200 community-based Vet Centers nationwide. These Centers offer services
to combat veterans and their families, including counseling on employment, family issues and education to combat veterans
and family members, as well as bereavement counseling for families of service members killed on active duty and counseling
for veterans who were sexually harassed on active duty.
"I have told the VA that these vets
are hurting and need counseling, and I am pleased that they have responded," continued Rep. Brown-Waite. "Having
been involved directly in several veteran related cases where the services of an additional Vet Center could have been utilized,
I know that my local vets will really appreciate this great news. I saw the need for new centers, and was once again
able to deliver for my veteran community."
Originally created by Congress nearly thirty years ago,
combat veterans and their families are able to use the Vet Center services at no cost. Counselors familiar with the
needs and unique problems affecting combat veterans staff the Centers.
"Community-based Vet Centers
-- already in all 50 states -- are a key component of VA's mental health program," said Dr. James B. Peake, Secretary
of Veterans Affairs. "I'm pleased we can expand access to bring services closer to even more veterans, including
screening and counseling for post-traumatic stress disorder."
All facilities are expected to be operational
by December 2009.
Communities Receiving New VA Vet Centers
Florida
- Broward, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Volusia
=============================================
REP. BROWN-WAITE HAILS PASSAGE OF NEW GI BILL FOR 21ST CENTURY SOLDIERS (WASHINGTON, D.C.) – U.S. Representative Ginny Brown-Waite (FL-05)
today released the following statement about House passage of the emergency war supplemental conference report, legislation
that includes the historic new GI Bill for 21st Century soldiers. Rep. Brown-Waite is the lead Republican
co-sponsor of H.R. 5740, the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008, the House bill that updates and
expands the Montgomery GI Bill for post 9/11 veterans. “I
am honored and humbled to have played such an important role in this once in a generation expansion of the Montgomery GI Bill,”
said Rep. Brown-Waite. “Just last week I was presented with an award for my work on this bill by the Student Veterans
of America, and after the presentation I spoke to one of the young men who had served in Iraq. He told me how much it
meant to student soldiers and how he would soon be able to afford the full cost of tuition and books. When he thanked
me for all my work on the bill, I told him that it was the least I could do for the thousands of brave men and women who have
made the real sacrifices for American freedom and safety. Today’s vote means no veteran will be denied an education
and a chance for a brighter future and I am proud to have played such a large role in its passage.”
Click
here to view the bill (HR 5740)
=============================================
From
the office of Congresswoman Ginny Browe-Waite VA Begins Next Phase of Combat
Vet Outreach Calls to Ill or Injured Veterans Completed WASHINGTON – The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced
today it has completed making calls to veterans potentially identified as being ill or injured from Operation Enduring Freedom
and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF-OIF), and will immediately begin targeting over 500,000 OEF-OIF veterans who have been discharged
from active duty but have not contacted VA for health care. “We
promised to reach out to every OEF and OIF veteran to let them know we are here for them—and we are making real progress
in doing so,” said Dr. James B. Peake, Secretary of Veterans Affairs. A
contractor-operated “Combat Veteran Call Center” is making the initial calls on behalf of VA. All potentially
sick or injured veterans on VA’s list received an offer to appoint a care manager to work with them if they do not have
one already. VA care managers ensure veterans receive appropriate care and know about their VA benefits. In the new phase, beginning today, veterans who have not accessed health care from
VA will be called and informed of the benefits and services available to them. Additionally, military personnel received
information about VA benefits when they left active duty, and the Department had sent every veteran a letter with this information
after their discharge. For five years after their discharge from the military,
these combat veterans have special access to VA health care, including screening for signs of post-traumatic stress disorder
and traumatic brain injury. VA personnel have been deployed to the military’s major medical centers to assist
wounded service members and their families during the transition to civilian lives. “VA
is focused on getting these veterans the help they need and deserve,” said Secretary Peake. “I expect these calls
to make a real difference in many veterans’ lives.” For
the latest news releases and other information, visit VA on the Internet at http://www.va.gov/opa. To receive e-mail copies of news releases, subscribe
to VA’s list server at: http://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/opalist_listserv.cfm.
=============================================
Senator Mel Martinez Honors Veterans
HONORING OUR SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN ON MEMORIAL DAY
May 23, 2008 - WASHINGTON
- U.S. Senator Mel Martinez (R-FL) today issued the following statement honoring our service men and women during Memorial
Day.
“For more than two hundred years, Americans have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of liberty
for all Americans. On Memorial Day, we honor these courageous individuals for their service to our great nation.
“Memorial Day is a day of remembrance, especially for those who have lost loved ones serving in our armed forces.
Whether they died serving on the beaches of Normandy, the rice fields on the Mekong Delta, or the sands in the Middle East,
each life deserves our respect and reflection on this solemn day.
“Today, many of the nearly 2 million veterans
who call Florida home will take part in Memorial Day ceremonies to honor their fellow fallen service men and women. It is
my hope families, friends, and fellow soldiers can find strength in knowing these brave Americans contributed to the greater
good, and our nation is safer and more secure because of their sacrifice.
“As Memorial Day services take
place, let us also remember the service men and women who have paid for our freedom with their lives in the current conflict
in the Middle East. The United States is truly grateful for their service.
“May God bless these brave soldiers,
and may He continue to bless this great nation.”
==============================================
Please click the link below to watch and listen to Congresswoman
Brown-Waite speak in support of legislation that helps veterans and the hospitals that serve them. A complete transcript
of her remarks is provided below.
http://brown-waite.house.gov/Multimedia/
=============================================
MARTINEZ GIVES SUPPORT TO NEW GI BILLBill allows veterans and active military to transfer benefits to family members
May 1, 2008 - WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Mel Martinez
(R-FL) this week gave his support to a measure that builds on and enhances the existing Montgomery GI Bill. The legislation,
introduced by Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Richard Burr (R-NC), and John McCain (R-AZ), aims to meet the education needs
of our nation’s veterans as well as those men and women of the active military and their families.
“We
owe a great debt to those who don the uniform to serve our country. Ensuring that our veterans and active military have access
to a good education is a top priority,” said Martinez. “In addition to increasing monthly education benefits,
this bill allows those benefits to be transferred to family members. That step is designed to enhance recruitment and retention.
The sacrifice of the families of our service men and women should also be recognized through additional education opportunities.”
The bill enhances the existing Montgomery GI Bill by significantly improving education benefits for both service
members who choose to leave the military as well as those who decide to make military service their career. The legislation
will help more military personnel attend college debt-free, and allow them to transfer their education benefits to their spouse
or children. It also bolsters recruitment and retention efforts, encouraging service members to continue their military careers.
This bill calls for increasing the current monthly education benefit from about $1,100 a month to $1,500 a month,
which represents the national average monthly cost for tuition, room, board, and fees at a state university. Additionally,
this act provides $500 per year for books and supplies. For military members with 12 or more years of service, the monthly
benefit will rise to $2,000 a month.
In a letter to Congress from Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, he wrote,
“Our first objective is to strengthen the All-Volunteer force. Accordingly, it is essential to permit transferability
of unused education benefits from service members to family. This is the highest priority set by the Service Chiefs and the
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, reflecting the strong interest from the field and fleet. Transferability supports military
families, thereby enhancing retention. Second, any enhancement of the education benefit, whether used in service or after
retirement, must serve to enhance recruiting and not undercut retention.”
=============================================
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Charlie Keller April 29, 2008 (202) 226-3017 REP. BROWN-WAITE JOINS IRAQ AND AFGHANISTAN WAR VETERANS AT RALLY
TO SUPPORT NEW GI BILL FOR THE 21ST CENTURY (WASHINGTON, D.C.) – U.S. Representative Ginny Brown-Waite (FL-05) today joined veterans of
Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom on the U.S. Capitol steps at a rally in support of a new and updated
GI Bill for the 21st Century. Rep. Brown-Waite, the lead Republican co-sponsor of H.R. 5740, the Post-9/11
Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008, spoke of the need for increased modern educational benefits for soldiers
serving in the post-9/11 Global War on Terror. Virtually every single veteran service organization has actively supported
H.R. 5740 and the Senate version, S. 22. “Just
recently a local National Guard unit from Brooksville was called up to active duty and sent to Oklahoma before departing for
Iraq,” said Rep. Brown-Waite. “For many of these soldiers, it will be their second or third tour overseas,
time away from their jobs and families while supporting defending freedom and democracy and protecting America’s interests
worldwide. When these brave soldiers return from active duty, however, they often find that educational opportunities
are closed to them because of the high costs associated with tuition, books and room and board. While the Montgomery
GI Bill has helped many veterans get the education they need to compete in America’s labor market, it does not currently
meet the needs of 21st Century veterans. Our bipartisan legislation will help ensure that all veterans, including
the National Guard and Reserves, have access to a Montgomery GI Bill that will meet all their college needs.” In 2007, Florida had more than 28,000 veterans using Montgomery
GI Bill benefits. Under current GI Bill limits, Active Duty (Chapter 30) veterans are eligible for approximately $10,000
a year in benefits. Under H.R. 5740, those same veterans would be eligible for nearly $20,000 a year, including new
benefits for Guard and Reserve members. H.R. 5740 currently has 249 bipartisan co-sponsors, including 35% of the House
Republican Conference. Informational packets are attached to this release and photos from the event will be posted on
the Congresswoman’s website at http://brown-waite.house.gov/photos.
=============================================
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Charlie Keller April
25, 2008
(202) 226-3017
IRAQ & AFGHANISTAN WAR VETERANS,
MEMBERS OF CONGRESS RALLY FOR 21st
CENTURY GI BILL **Press Event: Tuesday, April 29 at 12pm, U.S. Capitol,
West Front** Call for Immediate Legislative Action on The “Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act” (S.22/ H.R. 5740) (WASHINGTON,
D.C.) – U.S. Representative Ginny Brown-Waite (FL-05) will join more than one hundred veterans of the
war in Iraq and Afghanistan from across the country on Capitol Hill Tuesday to advocate for a “21st Century
GI Bill” for our newest generation of veterans. Rep. Brown-Waite is the lead Republican co-sponsor of the “Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance
Act” (S.22/ H.R. 5740), introduced by Sens. Jim Webb (D-VA), Chuck Hagel (R-NE), Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ) and John
Warner (R-VA) in the Senate and by Reps. Harry Mitchell (D-AZ), Bobby Scott (D-VA), Ginny Brown-Waite (R-FL) and Peter King
(R-NY) in the House. The legislation boasts strong bi-partisan and bi-cameral support
with 57 cosponsors in the Senate, 234 cosponsors in the House and the endorsements
of the nation’s leading veterans’ organizations. S.22/ H.R. 5740 is designed to offer the brave men and women who have served honorably since September 11, 2001
a level of educational benefits on par with those provided to veterans of the World War II era. The legislation will
give our returning troops the tools to succeed after military service, strengthen our economy in the face of increasing global
competition, and make military service more attractive as we work to rebuild our military. Who:
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid Sen. Jim Webb (D-VA), lead Senate cosponsor Sen. Chuck Hagel
(R-NE), lead Senate cosponsor Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ), lead Senate cosponsor Sen. John Warner
(R-VA), lead Senate cosponsor Sen. Daniel Akaka (D-HI), Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Rep.
Harry Mitchell (D-AZ), lead House cosponsor Rep. Ginny Brown-Waite (R-FL), lead House cosponsor Rep.
Bobby Scott (D-VA), lead House cosponsor Rep. Peter King (R-NY), lead House cosponsor Rep. Bob Filner (D-CA), House Veterans
Affairs’ Committee Chairman (Tentative) Student veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan war Matthew Boulay, Director of Campaign
for a New GI Bill
Dr. Clifford Stanley, retired USMC Major General & CEO, Scholarship America
Pete McCloskey, former U.S. Rep. and Korean War veteran Paul Rieckhoff, Executive Director,
Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America Derek Blumke, president, Student Veterans of America Bob Balaban,
Master of Ceremonies, actor & director When: Tuesday, April 29,
2008, 12:00PM Where: U.S. Capitol, West Front (In front of the fountain, facing
the Washington Monument) Rain Location: Rayburn Room, H-207
U.S. Capitol Building For more information about the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act, please visit: http://webb.senate.gov/pdf/factsheetgis222008.pdf Please RSVP to Webb’s press office at: press@webb.senate.gov
or 202-228-5258.
=============================================
News From Senator Martinez
*Charles Hurley is a Korean-war veteran living in an assisted-living
facility. In December 2006,
he submitted an application with the Veteran’s Administration (VA) for a non-service connected pension. Unable to get
a response from the VA, Mr. Hurley contacted the Office of Senator Martinez for assistance.
A caseworker contacted
the VA on Mr. Hurley’s behalf to determine the status of his application. The caseworker was notified promptly that
his application was recently approved and Mr. Hurley would begin receiving a monthly pension. In addition, Mr. Hurley received
retroactive payments to cover the time the VA spent determining his eligibility.
If you have questions about a
federal agency, please contact the Orlando Regional Office by calling (407) 254-2573 to speak with a member of the Casework
Department. The toll-free number for Florida residents is (866) 630-7106. To find out more about how my Office can help you,
go to http://martinez.senate.gov or stop by one of our scheduled Community Office Hours in your area.
*Casework Corner is a real account of assistance
provided to constituents. The names of those involved are changed to protect the privacy of the constituent.
=============================================
Good morning all, As
I mentioned in my e-mail yesterday, Rep. Brown-Waite testified this morning at 10:00 am on behalf of her legislation, H.R.
5622, a bill to begin a pilot program in VISN 8. This pilot program would require the VA to make the standard for access
to care for a veteran seeking primary care 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. If the VA cannot meet
the 30 day requirement, the veteran may receive treatment, paid for by the VA, at a non-VA facility. A copy of her testimony
is attached to this message, along with two photos of her at the hearing. If you have any questions
about the bill or would like to speak to the Congresswoman about the legislation, please feel free to give me a call directly
at 202-226-3017. Thanks,
and have a great day, Charlie
Legislative
Hearing in the Subcommittee on Health On H.R. 5622, the Veterans Timely Access
to Health Care Act Chairman Michaud and Ranking Member
Miller, thank you for the opportunity to testify before the Subcommittee today. I am pleased to have the opportunity
to discuss H.R. 5622, the Veterans Timely Access to Health Care Act. This bill makes a responsible and
reasonable commitment to veterans throughout this country by ensuring that veterans receive the care they deserve. Under H.R. 5622,
if a veteran cannot get an appointment with a primary care physician within thirty days of a request, that veteran may see
a private physician at no additional cost. This bill contains provisions similar to those found in other bills I have introduced in
the past; however, H.R. 5622 is unique in several ways. First, H.R. 5622 would create a pilot program that encompasses Veterans
Integrated Service Network (VISN) 8, which includes most of Florida, Southern Georgia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The pilot program
would give veterans receiving healthcare in VISN 8 the opportunity to seek healthcare from a primary care provider outside
the VA if they have to wait more than thirty days for an appointment through the VA. Mr. Chairman, it is more than reasonable
for a veteran to expect to be seen by a primary care physician within thirty days. If the VA cannot provide this basic
service to our veterans, then our veterans should have the option to look elsewhere. My bill does not “force”
any veteran out of the VA system, it simply provides them the option to go outside the VA system if they desire. Should a veteran
decide to see a physician outside the system, it is imperative that the VA be able to keep track of that veteran’s medical
records, to ensure continuity of care. H.R. 5622 directs the Secretary to provide a form to veterans that would authorize the
VA to obtain records from these out of network visits. This provision is critical, as the goal of H.R. 5622 is to ensure veterans
not only receive access to timely healthcare, but to quality healthcare as well. Mr. Chairman, as a Member of Congress
from VISN 8, I would like to make this option available to the veterans in and around my district. There is no reason any veteran should
have to wait more than thirty days to receive basic healthcare. Thank you Mr. Chairman.
Good
afternoon all,
Congresswoman
Brown-Waite will testify tomorrow before the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Health about her legislation, H.R.
5622, a bill to begin a pilot program in VISN 8. This pilot program would require the VA to make the standard for access
to care for a veteran seeking primary care 30 days from the date the veteran contacts the VA. If the VA cannot meet
the 30 day requirement, the veteran may receive treatment, paid for by the VA, at a non-VA facility.
If
you have any questions about the legislation or would like to speak to the Congresswoman about her testimony, please feel
free to contact me directly at 202-226-3017.
Thanks,
Charlie
Charlie Keller Communications Director Rep. Ginny Brown-Waite 414 Cannon (202) 226-3017 Direct
click here to view PDF file
=============================================
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact: Charlie
Keller April
9, 2008
202-225-4345 **Media Advisory** REP.
BROWN-WAITE AND LEAD SPONSORS OF THE GI II BILL TO HOLD MEDIA CONFERENCE CALL TOMORROW TO ANNOUNCE BILL INTRODUCTION GI II Bill Will Update and Modernize the Montgomery GI Bill
to Include Soldiers Called to Duty Defending America in the Global War on Terror
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – U.S. Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite
(FL-05) will join Reps. Harry Mitchell (D-AZ), Bobby Scott (D-VA) and Peter King (R-NY), and Senators Jim Webb (D-VA) and
Chuck Hagel (R-NE – tentative) tomorrow, Thursday, April 10, at 12:30 pm to announce the bipartisan introduction of
the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act, also known as the GI II bill. The legislation was introduced
late Wednesday with 171 original co-sponsors. Information about the legislation is attached to this advisory.
Rep. Brown-Waite is the lead
Republican House co-sponsor of this vital legislation that will modernize the Montgomery GI bill to meet the needs of 21st
Century Guard and Reserve members. The legislation has already been introduced in the Senate as S. 22.
“As the face of global warfare changes, so must the benefits that the
United States gives our men and women in uniform,” said. Rep. Brown-Waite. “As many families in the
5th District know, a significant portion of our overseas military burden is being felt by members of the National
Guard and Reserves. If America is going to send these brave soldiers into combat for lengths of time similar to the
rest of the Armed Forces, then they should receive similar benefits, including the Montgomery GI Bill education benefit.
I believe that this bipartisan GI II Bill is one of the most important things this Congress can do to support our troops returning
home from Iraq and Afghanistan; giving them the quality education they need to advance their careers and make better lives
for themselves and their families.”
The introduction of the House GI II legislation will be announced TOMORROW on a live conference call. Media will have the opportunity to call-in, listen to the Members describe the legislation,
and ask questions. Full dial-in information is below.
CALL DATE: APR-10-2008 (Thursday)
CALL TIME: 12:30 PM EASTERN TIME DURATION: 1 hr # OF LINES: 75 DIAL-IN NUMBERS Toll
Free Number 888-677-5728 PARTICIPANT PASSCODE: 51376 For security reasons, the passcode and the leader's name (John Wijtenburg) will be required
to join your call. All participants must use a touch-tone
phone to participate in an Audio Conference. The following features are available for you to use on your phone during an active
conference: Press *0 operator assistance (small fee
may apply). Press *6 mute/unmute
individual line.
click here for PDF Fact Sheet on GI II Bill
click here for PDF GI Bill Changes
click here for PDF Section by Section
=============================================
News From The …Committee on Veterans’ AffairsSteve Buyer,
Ranking Republican Member, 333 Cannon House Office Building, Washington D.C. 20515 Growing Number of Veterans Suffer From TBI Related Vision Issues Washington, D.C. —The Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations held a hearing yesterday on Department of Veterans Affairs
(VA) and Department of Defense (DOD) procedures for evaluating and treating vision problems associated with traumatic brain
injury (TBI). Subcommittee Ranking Member Ginny Brown-Waite (R-Fla.), noted that advances in medical science and
technology have saved lives that would have been lost in earlier wars, but many survivors are left with devastating disabilities.
“This war is
different from those of the past,” Browne-Waite said. “Injuries sustained that would have resulted in death in
previous conflicts, now have a large survival rate. However, survival doesn’t necessarily mean returning home
whole. With the enemy’s weapon of choice, the improvised explosive device (IED), many of our most severely injured veterans
have traumatic brain injury, and are or have been treated at one of the Polytrauma Rehabilitation Centers.” As with many other
health care aspects associated with IED injuries, VA and DOD must adapt to new challenges. Progress remains to be made on
TBI-associated vision issues that require special services and unique expertise such as neuron-ophthalmology. "I am pleased
that the committee recognizes the need to hold a hearing on vision related injuries," said Rep. John Boozman (R-Ark.).
"Statistics show more than one thousand service members have experienced eye injuries in Iraq. Additionally, soldiers
who suffer traumatic brain injuries may also experience vision problems. This hearing is a step in the right direction to
making sure our troops get the care they deserve." “As I have said in the past, medical centers need to be sharing
their best practices with one another, so that our veterans and servicemembers receive the best care possible,” Brown-Waite
said. “This is particularly critical in the area of traumatic brain injuries, where treatment can be very cutting edge.” “After hearing
testimony from soldiers with eye injuries, their health care providers and administrators, I am more convinced than ever we
need to proceed as quickly as possible with the Eye Injury Center of Excellence,” Boozman said. “Dr. Sutton assured
us that we would have a lot less talk and a lot more action so that our wounded warriors get the best possible treatment for
eye injuries.”
=============================================
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CONTACT: Alberto
Martinez March 19, 2007
(850) 488-1993 HOUSE PASSES PROPERTY TAX RELIEF FOR VETERANS TALLAHASSEE,
FL – The
Florida House of Representatives today approved a joint resolution that will give Floridians a chance to vote for a constitutional
amendment during the November general election to provide property tax credits to deployed military personnel who own homestead
property in Florida. “We owe so much to the brave men and women serving in harm’s way,”
said Representative Andy Gardiner (R-Orlando), who was the primary sponsor of House Joint Resolution 7003. “This small
token of relief represents one less thing that Florida’s military personnel have to worry about during their time on
the frontlines.” If approved by the voters, the measure could save Florida military personnel $14.9
million on their 2010 tax bills, assuming current millage rates. According
to the Florida Department of Military Affairs, approximately 25,525 military personnel who claim Florida as their home of
record are currently deployed overseas on active duty in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. The
amount of the credit is determined by the number of days those members are deployed on active duty outside the continental
United States, Alaska, and Hawaii in designated military operations. The
measure passed unanimously, 115-0.
=============================================
Reps. Brown-Waite
and Stearns Concerned About Challenges Seriously Wounded Face Following VA In-Patient Care
Washington,
D.C. — U.S. Rep. Ginny Brown-Waite (R-Fla.), Ranking Member of the
House Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, and Cliff Stearns (R-Fla.), a senior Member of the Committee, listened
to testimony yesterday on post in-patient care servicemembers and veterans have received since their discharge from the Department
of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers.
Over the past several years, the Subcommittee has conducted extensive oversight
investigations over the development of Polytrauma Rehabilitation Care (PRC) units throughout the VA system. Today the
Subcommittee concentrated on what happens after the patient is discharged from the VA, and how the severely injured servicemembers,
veterans and their families reintegrate in their communities. This includes ongoing prosthetic needs, polytrauma cases,
PTSD treatment, and other medical caseload management issues.
“Yesterday, we heard truly heart wrenching
stories of patients whose experiences with the VA healthcare system were so frustrating that they chose to go outside the
VA for the majority of their ongoing treatment,” said Rep. Brown-Waite. “Our obligation to care for our
severely injured servicemembers does not end when they leave the military or are discharged from in-patient care, but continues
throughout the entire recovery period. No veteran should ever feel that they cannot get timely and quality medical care
through the VA, and this Subcommittee will take whatever steps are necessary to care for our nation’s heroes.”
“Families are the most important factor in the successful transition back to civilian life for our warriors, and they
deserve all the support we can provide,” said Rep. Stearns. “The input from our witnesses today about
the personal trials they experienced as wounded warriors and their caregivers was extremely valuable. It is imperative
that the VA follow up on their suggestion to have one point of contact, one caseworker who will reach out to veterans and
their families to facilitate navigating through the bureaucracy to obtain the benefits they have earned on the battlefield.”
In October 2007, the VA partnered with the Department of Defense (DoD) to establish the Joint VA/DoD Federal Recovery Coordination
Program (FRCP) to identify and integrate care and services for the seriously wounded, ill, and injured servicemember, veteran,
and their families through recovery, rehabilitation, and community reintegration. As the VA continues their process
in developing the FRCP to reach out to the severely injured veterans and assist them whenever and however needed, Rep. Brown-Waite
along with other Subcommittee Members will continue to assess whether federal care coordinators are working as intended, and
evaluate the ability of the DoD and VA to ensure the availability of a complete set of medical records.
“Our Nation’s heroes have sacrificed their time, energy, and often their own physical health to secure freedom
and democracy throughout the world, and they deserve the best possible care we can provide,” continued Rep. Brown-Waite.
“As I told the witnesses today, if there are any veterans who have trouble navigating the bureaucracy at the VA, or
who cannot get the care and attention necessary, please contact your Member of Congress immediately. We are here to
help veterans in any way possible, and will work as your personal liaison with the VA.”
Posted
2008-03-14 16:03:40
=============================================
February 7, 2008 - WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator
Mel Martinez (R-FL) today introduced an effort directing the U.S. Department of Defense to create a publicly searchable database
containing the names of members of the Armed Services, Coast Guard, Merchant Marines and qualifying civilians who have received
the Medal of Honor or any other medal authorized by Congress. Senator Martinez joined with Senator Ken Salazar (D-CO) in introducing
the Military Valor Roll of Honor Act of 2008. The measure is an attempt to make the information more accessible to veterans
and their families, and to thwart attempts at military medal fraud.
“This database will ensure there is
a reliable tool available to veterans and their families,” Martinez said. “This helps veterans and families retrieve
a service member’s information. It will also serve as an important reminder of the bravery of true soldiers who live
among us, have come before or gave the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.”
“It is time that we bring
the record-keeping for our veterans’ honors into the 21st century by creating a publicly searchable database that shows
the honors and distinctions our veterans have earned,” said Senator Salazar. “This database will help ensure that
we are properly honoring our nation’s heroes; it will also allow law enforcement to crack down on those who falsify
records and claim service they did not perform.”
While copies of these original records exist (for Army
and Air Force Awards), many remain in storage at the National Archives and are filed by command, number, and date. Each record
usually contains the names and citations of a dozen or more recipients, but no index exists to enable a search by name. For
this reason a family member or researcher is required to request a citation by those criteria, which are usually unknown to
them, or to pay a researcher to sort through tens of thousands of pages.
Even when this information is known,
records often have to be requested under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), a process that can take a year or more before
the individual receives the requested documents. Awards to members of the Navy and Marine Corps are preserved on nearly half-a-million
index cards housed at the Navy Yard in Washington, D.C., where access to the general public is extremely limited.
==============================================
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 5, 2008
CONTACT: Charlie Keller
(202) 226-3017
REP. BROWN-WAITE STATEMENT ON BUSH ADMINISTRATION BUDGET
PROPOSALS TO HIKE FEES AND COPAYMENTS FOR VETERANS
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – U.S. Representative Ginny Brown-Waite (FL-05) today released the following statement regarding President Bush’s proposals to dramatically
increase veterans’ prescription drug co-payments, as well as to start charging enrollment fees for certain classes of
veterans. These proposals were included in the President’s FY2009 Budget that was made public yesterday.
“I
have consistently opposed charging veterans an enrollment fee or dramatically increasing their prescription drug co-pays,”
said rep. Brown-Waite. “Access to VA Healthcare was a benefit promised to veterans with no strings attached.
Since I first came to Congress, I have fought against the Administration’s recommendation to charge higher-income veterans,
such as those veterans grouped as category 7 and 8, enrollment fees and higher co-payments. It is unfair to ask the
hard-working men and women who sacrificed so much defending our county to pay ever more for their health care when savings
could be found elsewhere.
“This policy change has been requested by the Administration, and summarily
rejected by Congress, in 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007. Thankfully, I see no signs that the President will be successful
in his efforts this year. However, the best defense is a good offense, and I will work with my colleagues on the House
Veterans’ Affairs Committee and will once again lead the opposition here in the House to charging veterans even more
for their health care needs.
“I agree with the President that we must restrain the out-of-control
growth of the federal bureaucracy, including the use of earmarks, but we should not balance the budget on the backs of veterans.
They sacrificed for all Americans, and should not be forced to pay yet again for health care that was promised when they agreed
to serve our nation. Our veterans deserve the best, and I will continue to fight for them as long as I have the honor
of serving in this body.”
The President’s Budget request is a starting point to begin a dialogue
with Congress. It falls to the United States House and Senate to pass appropriations bills (and the President to sign
them into law) that fund each of the federal agencies, including the Department of Veterans Affairs. As the budget and
appropriations process continues over the next several months, Rep. Brown-Waite will continue to advocate for the needs of
American veterans.
=============================================================
FOR
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Charlie Keller (202) 226-3017
January 29, 2008
REP. BROWN-WAITE FIGHTS TO REDUCE
MEDICAL ERRORS AT VA FACILITIES
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – The Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations held a hearing today
on patient safety issues and administrative oversight lapses that resulted in the deaths of at least nine patients at a Department
of Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital in Marion, Illinois.
Of specific concern was the physician credentialing and privileging practice used by
the VA to ensure physicians’ professional credentials, such as licensures and qualifications, are valid and meet VA
standards. In fact, last September Subcommittee Raking Member Rep. Brown-Waite (FL-05) and the Ranking Member of the
full Committee, Rep. Steve Buyer (IN-04) wrote a letter requesting an investigation by the VA Office of the Inspector General
(IG) into the spike in surgical deaths. The results of the investigation were discussed
during today’s hearing.
“When I served in the Florida Senate, one of my toughest
battles was to create an online database of physicians, listing any disciplinary actions taken, as well as a list of medical
malpractice lawsuits against the doctor,” said Rep. Brown-Waite. “Giving patients and families access to
vital information about their doctors is an excellent way to weed out poor medical professionals and help reduce preventable
errors and deaths. Sadly, nothing like the Florida program exists in other states or on the national level. Although
there is the National Practitioner Data Bank, it is clearly not up to the task to screen doctors like we need. If it
had, physicians like Dr. Mendoza at the Marion hospital might have lost their privileges and rights to carry out medial procedures
they were not qualified for or trained to perform.
“Today’s hearing is a long time coming, and hopefully provides some closure for the families whose loved ones
died as a result of medical errors at Marion. I especially want to thank Mrs. Shank for her courage testifying today,
and for sharing her very personal loss with Members of the Subcommittee. When news reports first came out last year
showing a spike in surgical deaths at the Marion hospital, Ranking Member Buyer and I were immediately concerned. We
wanted to find out what was going on with the administration at Marion, and how we could help the VA take actions that protected
patients from future
errors, especially if similar administrative and credentialing lapses were occurring at other VA
facilities. “I was also interested to hear if the VA was following
all of the IG recommendations that came about as a result of these deaths,” continued Rep. Brown-Waite. “One
of the most important results of today’s hearing is that the IG needs continued increases and stability in its budget.
With more inspectors, the IG will be better equipped to perform examinations of VA facilities and catch potential problems
before they escalate to major issues like we saw at Marion.
They also need to have stability in their budgets
year-to-year to engage in long-term planning for enhanced oversight and investigations. I pledge to work with other
members of the Committee to fund the IG at levels that enable them to carry out their vital mission on behalf of our nation’s
veterans.
“When veterans come to VA hospitals
and outpatient clinics, they should not have to worry about whether or not their physician has a valid license to practice
medicine. Our veterans trust that the VA does its part to ensure practitioners in VA medical facilities are the best
trained and most qualified individuals to care for them. For the VA to do anything less is unacceptable.”
==============================================
MARTINEZ STATEMENT ON ORLANDO VA HOSPITAL
January 25, 2008 - WASHINGTON
- U.S. Senator Mel Martinez (R-FL) today issued the following statement in response to the agreement signed today between the U.S. Veterans Affairs Department
(VA) and Tavistock Corporation involving the land sale for the site of the future Orlando Veterans Hospital. Senator Martinez
was notified that the VA and Tavistock signed a “commitment to an option agreement to purchase” essentially laying
out the specific terms of the purchase agreement and clearing the way for a final purchase contract signing.
Senator
Martinez said:
“Today’s development marks a significant milestone. We have the land; we have the plan;
now we need the money. I’ve asked the VA to request the full $492 million dollars needed for construction in their 2009
budget. The construction of this veterans hospital is among the highest priorities for the VA and it’s among my top
priorities as a senator. I will continue to work with the VA to see that they have the resources to make this facility a reality.”
==============================================
A Veteran - whether Active Duty, National Guard, or Reserve, is someone who at
some point in their lives, wrote a blank check made payable to "The People of the United States of America" for
an amount of "up to and including my life".
The Polk County Veterans Council endeavors to unite all of Polk County's Veterans Organizations to better serve the Men and Women whom have served our country so valiantly. Polk County, Florida. Thank you for your service.
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