Veterans Object To House Bill, Call For Recognition, Preservation Of VA Programs
"Six high-profile veterans groups are raising objections to the House healthcare reform bill, warning House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) that it could jeopardize the care of millions of veterans," the Hill reports. The reform bill doesn't "adequately recognize, protect or preserve" the Veterans Health Administration, the groups wrote in a letter to Speaker Pelosi.
Among specific concerns listed, the groups "want the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to continue running the healthcare system offered through the Department of Veterans Affairs and not be 'infringed' upon by any other healthcare organizations or administration departments." They also would like the overhaul measure to guarantee access for both veterans and families to possible public and cooperative health insurance programs. "By virtue of their service and sacrifices, veterans have earned special benefits that are separate and in addition to benefits the government provides to other citizens," they wrote. The signatories are the Disabled American Veterans, Blinded Veterans Association, Vietnam Veterans of America, Jewish War Veterans of the USA, American Veterans and the Military Order of the Purple Heart of the USA (Tiron, 7/31).