Veterans

Our nation owes a debt of gratitude to the men and women who selflessly and proudly don the uniform of the United States Military. In return for their sacrifice, we as a nation must ensure that we meet their needs on all levels when they return home. I am committed to ensuring that every veteran receives the best care possible.

Unfortunately, too often the bureaucracy of the Department of Vetrans Affairs has let our veterans down. The entire nation was shocked and outraged by revelations of scandal throughout the VA system: veterans forced to wait months to see a doctor, benefits claims that took years to process, secret waiting lists and other forms of data manipulation. Tragically, some of the worst abuses took place in our own region. 

I've visited the VA facilities in our area, held management accountable and sought answers on behalf of our vets. 

When our soldiers return home from deployment, they often have difficulty coping with mental trauma from their experiences.  Some of these heroes sadly turn to drugs or alcohol for relief, which can lead to legal troubles.  I recognize the unique stresses placed on our veterans and do not feel that the traditional justice system is always appropriate for our troubled veterans.  To honor my pledge to do everything I can to help veterans reenter our communities, I fought for federal funding of special veterans treatment courts, a hybrid of drug and mental health courts that serve veterans struggling with addiction, mental illness, or other conditions. This funding will ensure that our war heroes get the help that they need and the support they deserve.