March 22, 2007,WASHINGTON – With U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon’s support, the U.S. House of Representatives approved two bills to improve health care for veterans.
“Our veterans have put themselves in harm’s way when their country has asked them to serve,” said Gordon. “It’s our duty to make sure they receive the health care and benefits due to them.”
The Joshua Omvig Veterans Suicide Prevention Act would authorize a suicide prevention program within the U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs and training programs to help personnel at VA medical facilities to better recognize and treat veterans at risk for suicide. The bill is named after an Iowa veteran who committed suicide after returning from service in Iraq. Gordon co-sponsored the legislation.
The second bill, the Veterans Vision Equity Act, would provide increased benefits to veterans who suffer injuries in both eyes.
The House approved the bills Wednesday (March 21), and they now go to the Senate for consideration.
“My father and my uncle served in World War II, and they taught me the importance of honoring the promises made to our veterans,” said Gordon. “With men and women in our military currently fighting overseas, we owe it to them to ensure our veterans receive the best care when they come home.”