(Spokane, WA)  Just days after speaking at the groundbreaking of the Eastern Washington Veterans Cemetery, Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers announced new legislation that would make family burial in state veteran cemeteries more affordable. 

Right now, federal cemeteries receive a $300 benefit to cover a portion of the burial for veterans and their families.  McMorris Rodgers is a co-sponsor of legislation (H.R. 2594) that would provide the same benefit for burial in state cemeteries. 

“In about a year, we’ll have a brand new state veteran cemetery in Eastern Washington,” McMorris Rodgers said.  “This legislation will allow veterans and their families to remain together not only in life, but after a loved one passes away.” 

On Monday, May 25th, McMorris Rodgers spoke at the Memorial Day dedication and groundbreaking of the new Eastern Washington Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake—a project that has been in the works since 2006.  “Today is an appropriate day for this ground breaking,” McMorris Rodgers told the crowd.  “We have crossed many hurdles to get to this point and I am honored to be with all of you.”

While back home in Eastern Washington during the May work period, McMorris Rodgers is focusing primarily on veterans and military members.  On Saturday, May 30th, McMorris Rodgers is hosting her third annual Veterans and Military Family Resource Fair.  More than 50 organizations will be on hand to provide veterans, military members and their families information about the resources and programs available to them.  The Veterans and Military Family Resources Fair is from 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at WSU Spokane.

Contact:
Destry Henderson
202-225-2006
202-279-0418