For Immediate Release:

Thursday, June 6, 2002

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - The Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee today passed Senator Patty Murray's amendment to improve veterans' health care in North Central and Northwest Washington.

Murray's amendment to the "Veterans' Long-Term Care and Mental Health Enhancement Act" would create a pilot program to provide basic medical services to veterans in the state's most under-served areas, including Whatcom, Chelan, Douglas, Okanogan and Kittitas counties.

"Our veterans fought hard to secure our freedom, and it is unconscionable that they must also fight to get adequate health care," Senator Murray said. "My amendment will help veterans in some of the most under-served communities in Washington state get the care and attention they deserve."

Veterans across North Central and Northwest Washington often must travel extremely long distances to consult a physician and acquire basic care.

Senator Murray's legislation would supply trained medical staff to veterans on a weekly basis, offering basic health care, diagnostic services, and needed referrals to appropriate medical facilities.

An active member of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, Senator Murray has also supported increased funding for the Veterans' Medical Care Account while expanding medical research.

"This amendment is an important step towards addressing our veterans' health care needs. I will continue to work on the Veterans' Affairs Committee to seek long-term solutions to the serious issue of quality, affordable health care for our veterans."

Next, Murray's amendment and its corresponding veterans' bill must proceed to the Senate floor for debate.