May 22, 2008

Washington, DC—Nevada Senator Harry Reid today commended his colleagues for passing two bills that will support Nevadans serving in our military, as well as those affected by the recent Hepatitis C exposure and the upcoming wildfire season.

The Senate passed the historic 21^st Century GI Bill that keeps our promise to Nevada’s veterans to support them at home by providing greatly enhanced education benefits for active-duty armed forces members.

Senator Reid also praised the passage of the Emergency Supplemental Funding bill that provides protection for Nevadans throughout the state.  Reid ensured the bill contains $26 million in funding for the prevention of and response to medical errors, of which at least $5 million would be dedicated to the Hepatitis C outbreak in Nevada.  He also helped secure an additional $450 million that would supply the Bureau of Land Management and the United States Forest Service with funding to prepare for the dangerous Nevada summer fire season.

“Today, the Senate acted decisively in helping Nevadans and all Americans,” Reid said.  “I commend their efforts in supporting our troops and veterans, and for providing vital money to help manage the recent Hepatitis C exposure and the wildfire season already affecting us. Our friends and family throughout the Silver State will benefit from these bills.”