Congressman
John Shimkus

In Touch With the 19th District

Veterans Day 2005

By Congressman John Shimkus
November 2005

As a veteran myself, I am highly aware of the many issues facing veterans and returning service men and women.

For our veterans…
One bill that I am cosponsoring in Congress would benefit those who suffered a loss of vision during their time of service. The Dr. James C. Allen Disabled Veterans Equity Act (HR 2963) would allow for an increased benefit if a veteran starts to lose vision in their second eye if the first eye was lost during their service.

For our current service men and women…
I am cosponsoring legislation that would protect members of the Armed Forces from predatory lending practices. Unfortunately, some financial institutions target military personnel and charge exorbitantly high interest. This bill would cap interest on loans to members of the military.
Just this month I joined several colleagues in sending a letter to the Secretary of Defense opposing a Pentagon directive that requires a soldier to obtain written permission to accept a gift valued over $20. A soldier who receives a package from home has almost certainly violated this rule. Hopefully this problem will be corrected by the end of this month.
Another issue is that while our soldiers stationed in Iraq and elsewhere look forward to packages from home, families can incur great expenses. The Supply Our Soldiers Act (HR 2874) would allow families and charities to send packages to troops in combat zones, up to $150 per quarter.

Something for both active duty and veterans…
The Military Severely Injured Joint Support Operations Center provides help to injured soldiers either returning to their units or integrating back into their home community. Services offered include medical care and rehabilitation, education and job training, counseling, and financial resources. This service is available 24 hours a day by calling 1-888-774-1361. Give them a call to see if they can help you!
Southern Illinois has more veterans than any other area of the state. If you are having difficulty with Veterans Affairs, DOD, or any other federal government agency, please give my office a call.

You may contact Congressman Shimkus at one of his offices in Springfield, Collinsville, Centralia, Harrisburg, Olney, or Washington.

In Touch With the 19th District is a column featuring news from Washington, DC, or discussing other important topics.

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