CONGRESSMAN Jared Polis 2nd DISTRICT OF COLORADO

National Security

I have a profound respect for our servicemen and women in Iraq, Afghanistan and throughout the world, who so gracefully and bravely serve our country. In order for the United States Military to retain the best and the brightest in all fields, I believe it is time to end the military ban on gays that continues to threaten our national security in the form of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. I believe we in Congress must pass the Military Readiness Enhancement Act of 2009 and restore a system that allows the armed forces to judge individuals by their merits and not their sexual orientation.  

When members of the armed forces make the decision to serve, the United States government makes a promise to care for that individual both in the line of duty and after. The estimated 700,000 veterans and military personnel returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan should never have to doubt the commitment of our government to care for them and their families. It is our responsibility as members of congress to ensure the U.S. government is keeping its promise, not only to the veterans and military families in our own districts and states, but throughout the country.

My first priority as a Representative for Colorado’s Second Congressional District is the building of the Fitzsimmons VA hospital in Boulder, Colorado. I look forward to working with the Obama Administration, other members of the Colorado Congressional delegation and Colorado Veterans organizations to secure funding and support for the Fitzsimmons Veterans Hospital and the establishment of a much-needed Spinal Cord Injury Center.  

I am also an original co-sponsor of the Disabled Veterans Health Care Fairness Act, which would eliminate the current practice that forces disabled veterans to pay co-payments and other fees to the Department of Veterans Affairs. Catastrophically disabled veterans should not have to pay co-payments and fees in addition to facing both difficult emotional and economic hardship after returning from war.

I believe the Department of Veterans’ Affairs should have the sufficient resources and funding to provide every educational opportunity and adequate healthcare benefits to veterans and their families. The 21st Century GI Bill was an important accomplishment of the 110th Congress. I enthusiastically support the full funding of these educational opportunities, including alternative educational programs, such as at-home internet-based courses and part-time enrollment, which will help cater to the diverse needs of our returning veterans.

Office Contact:

For more information on or questions about immigration issues, please contact Rafael Reyneri in my Washington Office.