Hensarling Votes to Improve Benefits for Veterans

WASHINGTON – U.S. Congressman Jeb Hensarling, Chairman of the House Republican Conference, issued the following statement in support of four veteran-related bills passed by the House of Representatives yesterday.

“I am pleased to support these bills which will improve the benefits our nation’s military men and women currently receive for their heroic service and ensure our fallen heroes receive proper honor for their sacrifice,” said Hensarling. “Veterans and their families have made tremendous sacrifices to protect our freedom and the benefits they receive are a token of appreciation from a grateful nation. To quote Calvin Coolidge, ‘The nation which forgets its defenders will itself be forgotten.’ I am committed to remembering the service of our defenders and I am proud to support these bills in that effort.”

“Veteran’s Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2011” (HR 1407): provides a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for veteran disability and military survivor benefits at the same percentage as the COLA for Social Security beneficiaries—ensuring Veterans continue to receive the annual cost-of-living adjustment they deserve. This bill also provides help to disabled veterans for construction costs associated with home modifications—such as wheelchair ramps and handrails—so they can live comfortably in their homes.

“Restoring GI Bill Fairness Act of 2011” (HR 1383): strengthens the Post 9-11 GI Bill by suspending the current cap on education benefits for veterans attending non-public schools.

“Honoring American Veterans Act of 2011” (HR 1627): establishes clear and objective criteria for approving monument requests at Arlington National Cemetery. The bill also preserves the integrity of Arlington National Cemetery by ensuring any qualified veteran—regardless of rank or favoritism—has the opportunity for burial in the cemetery.

H.R. 1657 to amend Title 38 of the United States Code: toughens enforcement penalties for misrepresenting a business as being veteran owned, this bill would increase penalties for violators misrepresenting themselves and degrading the honor of those who serve.

Veterans with questions about these or any other military service benefits are encouraged to contact Hensarling’s Dallas office at (214) 349-9996.