RAMSTAD CO-SPONSORS MAJOR VETERANS HEALTH CARE ACT

 

WASHINGTON -- U.S. Rep. Jim Ramstad (MN-03) joined U.S. Rep. Jim Moran (D-VA) at a Capitol press conference today to introduce major legislation to improve veterans’ health care.

“I’m proud to co-sponsor the Lane Evans Health and Benefits Act that will improve veterans’ access and treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), said Ramstad. “Three of every ten troops returning from Iraq and Afghanistan are suffering from PTSD, and they are not getting the care they need.”

“In Minnesota, Marine Lance Corporal Jonathan Schulze’s tragic death demonstrates the urgent need to provide greater access to mental health treatment for our returning troops and veterans,” said Ramstad. “None of our brave troops suffering from PTSD should ever be placed on a waiting list for mental health treatment like Lance Corporal Schulze was.”

According to Ramstad, the legislation would provide VA mental and physical health screenings, following deployment, for all returning troops and expand access to VA mental health screening to 5 years, from the current 2-year limit. The bill would also establish a VA tracking system to monitor new veterans’ health care so the VA can avoid budget shortfalls and provide veterans’ care more efficiently. Each service member would have his or her own electronic health record to facilitate VA health care.

“This bill also requires equal transition services for National Guard members and Reservists returning from deployment,” said Ramstad.

“It’s too late for Lance Corporal Schulze of Minnesota,” said Ramstad. “But it’s not too late for thousands of other returning troops and veterans.”

“Congress should pass this critical veterans’ health care legislation without delay,” said Ramstad. “Our brave veterans deserve the highest quality health care.”

 

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