Washington, DC – U.S. Representative John Hall's (D-NY19) first bill to pass Congress is now at the White House, set to be signed into law by the President.  Hall's H.R. 1284, the Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act, provides an increase to the benefits disabled veterans and their dependents receive to keep pace with the rise in inflation.

 

"I'm very proud that my first bill to pass Congress and my first bill to become law is a bill to provide for the needs of America's veterans and their families," said Hall, Chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.  "I believe that America must uphold its promise to care for our veterans and their families, and I strongly support efforts to alleviate unjust financial burdens imposed upon veterans and their survivors."

 

Hall's bill will cause all veterans currently receiving compensation to see a 2.3% increase in their benefits starting with their January 2008 check.  The bill provides $590 million increase in benefits to veterans around the country.  On average, a veteran will receive an extra $215 next year.

 

"Without a change in the law, inflation will erode the purchasing power of millions of veterans and their dependents," said Hall. This legislation is critical to the lives of over 3 million beneficiaries who have served our country well and faithfully"

 

Hall introduced H.R. 1284 in March.  The House passed the bill on March 21st, as did the Senate earlier this month.  The President is set to sign Hall's legislation, making it public law, this week.

 

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