News from DC -The Week of 2019-09-01


CONGRESS

U.S. Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ-4) introduced H.R. 2435, the Accelerating Veterans Recovery Outdoors Act. This is a bill with widespread bipartisan support. The bill would establish an interagency task force on the use of public lands to provide medical treatment and therapy to veterans through outdoor recreation.

U.S. Rep. Jim Costa (D-CA-16) introduced H.R. 4204, the Special Guerrilla Unit (SGU) Veterans Service Recognition Expansion Act. This bill would authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to inter in national cemeteries individuals who supported the United States in Laos during the Vietnam War era.

U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA-43) introduced H.R. 4182, the Women Veterans Support Act. This bill aims to prevent suicide by women veterans.

U.S. Rep. Anthony Delgado (D-NY-19) introduced H.R. 4165, the Improving Benefits for Underserved Veterans Act. This bill directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to publish a report regarding veterans who receive benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, disaggregated by sex and minority group member status.

U.S. Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-ND) introduced S. 2392, the Veterans Reimbursement for Emergency Ambulance Services Act. This bill aims to provide for the circumstances under which the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall provide reimbursement for emergency ambulance services.

Article: “Senate Veterans’ Affairs chairman to retire at end of 2019”
Article: “After June’s 2-year hike in VA mortgage fees, Congress is ready to do it again”

Article: “Sen. Boozman Recognizes Mulberry Officer For Going ‘Beyond The Call Of Duty’”

Article: “U.S. Rep. Duffy of Wisconsin Will Leave Congress Sept. 23 Over Unborn Child’s Heart Condition”

Press release: “Isakson Statement on U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims Nominations”

Press release: “Chairman Smith Statement on Trump Administration’s Harmful Change in USCIS Policy”

Article: “Jerry Moran in line for Senate Veterans’ Affairs gavel”