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Washington, D.C. – Today, a bill authored by Congressman Jerry McNerney (CA-11) to address the needs of veterans who have suffered traumatic brain injuries (TBI) passed the Health Subcommittee of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.
“Many of our soldiers who have been wounded in Iraq have experienced a traumatic brain injury. In fact, traumatic brain injuries are the hallmark injuries of this war,” said Rep. McNerney.
“It is our responsibility to ensure that the Veterans Administration is equipped and ready to provide the ongoing services necessary to fully address the impact of traumatic brain injuries,” Rep. McNerney continued.
The bill, H.R. 1546, the Caring for Veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury Act of 2009, will establish a special panel within the VA to assess its current capacity to treat veterans with traumatic brain injuries as well as make recommendations on developing policies for care and rehabilitation.
In addition, H.R. 1546 will help establish TBI-specific education and training programs for the VA’s health professionals.
“Our men and women in uniform have put their lives on the line,” said Rep. McNerney. “It is critical that we ensure our veterans receive proper care and treatment for injuries sustained in service to our country.”
H.R. 1546 is expected to now move to consideration by the full House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.
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