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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, House Democrats Introduce GI Bill of Rights for the 21st Century
Washington, D.C. – House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today after she joined Congressman Chet Edwards of Texas and 155 Democrats yesterday in introducing H.R. 2131, the new GI Bill of Rights for the 21st Century:
“I am proud to join Congressman Chet Edwards and more than 150 of my Democratic colleagues in introducing H.R. 2131, the new GI Bill of Rights for the 21st Century.
“Today, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are creating a new generation of veterans. Every American is indebted to our troops for their bravery, their patriotism, and the sacrifice they are willing to make for our country. Just as our soldiers pledge to leave no one behind on the battlefield, we must leave no veteran behind once they come home.
“Our GI Bill of Rights for the 21st Century would fully repeal the Disabled Veterans Tax for military retirees and the families of those who died in the line of duty, and end the Military Families Tax. It would improve veterans’ health care, including mental health care, to meet the needs of our returning troops. To help our soldiers become a productive part of a prosperous economy and to help recruit new service members, the package would modernize and enhance the GI Bill – providing the full cost for college or job training for those who serve four years or more of active duty. It strengthens our support for our men and women in uniform by providing a $1,000 bonus for those serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.
“Finally, it recognizes the great sacrifice of our National Guard and Reserve by expanding military health care to cover all reservists, ensuring they do not suffer a pay cut while deployed, and improving recruitment and retention incentives.
“Recognizing that politics and partisanship should never be a factor in how we support our veterans, I urge all my colleagues, both Republicans and Democrats, to co-sponsor this landmark legislation and provide our men and women in uniform with the benefits they deserve.”
“ 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
