Washington, DC – Today, local Congresswoman Kirsten Gillibrand, a Member of the House Armed Services Committee, announced that she has introduced the “Separating Servicemember Handbook Development Act” H.R. 5831 to mandate that the Pentagon provide a benefits handbook to every service member that is leaving active duty so that they are aware of the earned benefits they, and their families, should receive. 

“My office hears from veterans in need of help every day,” said Gillibrand. “The system is confusing, time consuming and difficult to navigate for our troops who often end up not receiving the benefits they need and have earned. While this bill is not a cure all for the VA, it is a step in the right direction. We must treat our veterans better.”

“This legislation, sponsored by Representative Kirsten Gillibrand, will put much of that information in one location, easy to access and digest, giving our veterans an easier place upon which to find what entitlements and resources are available.  The Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States is very appreciative of the leadership and dedication of Representative Gillibrand, and supports this legislation.” said SGM Dwight Yoakum, Legislative Director of the Enlisted Association of the National Guard.

This legislation ensures that separating servicemembers are provided consolidated information prior to their discharge and will help mitigate much of the confusion that surrounds the transition from active to veteran status.  The handbook will provide all of the information required to help the transitioning servicemember better understand their role and that of the VA when applying for their benefits.

Currently there are various publications provided by the Departments of Defense and Veteran’s Affairs explaining how to apply for benefits and what exactly those benefits are, but they are not coordinated or consolidated.  “This handbook will consolidate the information in one place, and provide a clear explanation of all benefits available” said Congresswoman Gillibrand.  “Transitioning to civilian life is confusing enough without having to sort through websites and brochures to figure out which benefits apply to you.”

“A hard copy guide would be a great resource and reference with good shelf life for all the forces and their families post mob/post separation who seem to be overwhelmed by a blizzard of websites and oral briefings. Great idea and nice work!” said Colonel (retired) Duffy of the National Guard Association of the United States.

The legislation also directs the information be placed on a publicly accessible website.  Local and state benefits will also be placed on the website.  Gillibrand stated “We are finding that veterans are eligible for state and local benefits as well – this information should be readily available to the separating servicemember during their transition period, when it is needed most.”  Family members who have lost a loved one, and are eligible for survivor benefits, will also be entitled to a printed copy of the handbook.

CAPT (retired) Hanson of the Reserve Officers Association added “Additional tools are badly needed for transitioning veterans and Reserve Component member following discharge or a demobilization.  Individuals normally are anxious to get home, and don't always listen to the briefing given just before separation.  A handbook that consolidates their benefits and available support will be an advantage to those young heroes returning to civilian life.  The Reserve Officers Association supports Congresswoman Gillibrand's bill, HR 5831.”

Congresswoman Gillibrand hopes to have this program included in as part of the 2009 Defense Authorization bill.