Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27) voted with his colleagues in the House of Representatives to approve legislation aimed at assisting disabled veterans with their living conditions and supporting veterans interested in pursuing entrepreneurial opportunities.

“This is the latest in a series of actions Congress is taking to see that veterans receive the services and care they need when they come home,” said Congressman Higgins.  “These measures in particular help provide for an easier transition to civilian life and opportunity for our service members moving forward.”

The Veterans Business Center Act of 2009 directs the Small Business Administration to establish a Veterans Business Center Program.  Under the program, centers would be established and funded to provide services that include:  veteran entrepreneurial development, and counseling of veteran-owned small businesses through one-on-one instruction.  In addition, the bill calls for veterans entrepreneurial development summits every two years.

The House also approved legislation increasing the amount available to servicemembers under the Disabled Veterans Home Improvement Act.  The bill increases from $4,100 to $6,800 the amount available for adaptability home improvements for veterans with service-connected disabilities of 50% or more and increases from $1,200 to $2,000 the amount available for veterans with disabilities rated less than 50%. 

The bills will now move to the Senate for their consideration and approval.