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“ Democratic priorities are clear: we will fight to get the economy back on track, we will create jobs, and we will help unemployed workers. ” |
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Pelosi Celebrates Anniversary of Original GI Bill of Rights, Fights for New GI Bill of Rights for the 21st Century
Washington, D.C. – House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today celebrating the 61st anniversary of the original GI Bill of Rights and calling for Congress to pass the new GI Bill of Rights for the 21st Century:
“Exactly 61 year ago today, on June 22, 1944, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed into law the original GI Bill of Rights. President Roosevelt said the GI Bill gave ‘emphatic notice to the men and women of our Armed Forces that the American people do not intend to let them down.’
“Today, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are creating a new generation of veterans and we must not let them down. House Democrats have honored the service and sacrifice of these brave men and women with our new GI Bill of Rights for the 21st Century, which would guarantee access to health care, job opportunity, and education for our troops.
“The new GI Bill ensures health care access by increasing VA health care funding, blocking fee increases, and covering mental health services. It provides benefits our veterans deserve, including a full repeal of the Disabled Veterans’ Tax.
“The new GI Bill of Rights for the 21st Century strengthens our support for our troops. It provides a $1,000 bonus for troops in Iraq and Afghanistan and ensures adequate equipment for those troops. It improves National Guard and Reservist benefits by expanding their health care and by protecting their income.
“Finally, the new GI Bill would provide full tuition and fees plus a living allowance for 36 months of schooling for those who enlist for four years of active duty military service.
“We owe our veterans so much. Their optimism, hard work, and sacrifice protect our nation and our prosperity. Congress should recognize their sacrifice and pass the new GI Bill of Rights for the 21st Century.
“ Democrats are united in presenting a New Direction for America, one that will make our nation as strong as its people, one that brings opportunity, security, and prosperity to all Americans. ”
Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi
