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Rep. Gus Bilirakis Introduces Bill to Improve POW Disability Compensation |
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Legislation would add additional medical conditions that are eligible for
disability compensation
March, 1, 2007
Washington, D.C.
- Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-Palm Harbor)
proudly announces the introduction of H.R. 1197, the Prisoners of War (POW)
Benefits Act.
H.R. 1197 establishes presumptions for disability compensation for several
diseases, including Type II Diabetes and Osteoporosis. This will allow former
POWs to claim these disabilities as service-connected and qualify them for
disability compensation.
Additionally, this legislation establishes a system by which the Department
of Veterans' Affairs (VA) can determine future presumption conditions for
former POWs. Under H.R. 1197, the VA Secretary would have to review the
recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Former Prisoners of War and all
other sound medical and scientific information and analysis available to him
when making these determinations. This allows greater responsiveness and
flexibility for the VA in addressing the medical and disability concerns of the
brave men and women who have served in America's Armed Forces.
"During my campaign I promised veterans across America that I
would be a strong advocate for their causes," Rep. Bilirakis said.
"The sacrifices these men and women made will never be forgotten, and
providing them with the best possible medical services is only one step in
honoring them."
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