Veterans Affairs

It is the duty of a grateful nation to provide for those who have bravely sacrificed of themselves in defense of our freedom. In 2008, Congress enacted one of the greatest expansions of Veterans benefits since the original GI bill. I was proud to vote in favor of permanently extending GI Bill education benefits for returning veterans to provide a generous four-year tuition subsidy for qualifying veterans who have served since September 11, 2001. The GI Bill is crucial to helping our returning troops transition to civilian life with a degree, certificate, or license from an institution of higher learning.

I have consistently endorsed legislation aimed at improving health benefits for our veterans. I voted in favor of the Hubbard Act, which provides that a member of the Armed Forces discharged as the sole surviving child of his or her family, following the death of a relative, may continue to receive pay and benefits. I co-sponsored a bill with Rep. Mike Doyle (PA-14) that was enacted into law in October 2008 which repealed the VA’s outdated HIV testing policy, allowing quicker diagnosis and more effective treatment for our veterans. I also support lowering the retirement age of National Guardsmen and reservists from 60 to 55.

I was outraged last year by a Department of Homeland Security threat assessment that suggested returning war veterans were ripe for radicalization and potential “right-wing extremists.” This report unfairly maligned the honor and dignity of the men and women who are fighting true violent extremists in Iraq, Afghanistan, and around the world. In response, I cosponsored a resolution to launch a formal inquiry into this threat assessment. Though I was pleased that the Secretary ultimately apologized to veterans’ groups, I believe that the Department owes a full explanation to those they have slandered.

The health and well-being of our nation’s veterans is one of my top legislative priorities, and I will continue to work diligently to make sure that all of our veterans receive the best care available. My Lehigh Valley and Montgomery/Berks County offices routinely provide assistance to veterans regarding health benefits and programs through the Department of Veterans Affairs. If you or someone you know requires help resolving an issue with the VA, please feel free to contact my office.

Resources for Veterans

If you need assistance with any veterans' issue, please contact one of my district offices:

Lehigh Valley Office: 610-861-9734
Montgomery/Berks County Office: 215-541-4106.
You may also feel free to e-mail me.