• February 19, 2009

    McIntyre Introduces Bill To Help Veterans
    Will Ensure Veterans Get Benefits

    Washington, D.C. - U.S. Congressman Mike McIntyre has introduced legislation to help veterans by improving the outreach activities of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

              Congressman McIntyre stated, “We need to help our veterans cut through the bureaucratic red tape, and there can be no greater tribute to our veterans than ensuring they receive the benefits they need and deserve.  This legislation will help do that, and  I will be working for its passage.”

              Last year, this legislation unanimously passed the U.S. House on a bi-partisan basis.  Specifically, this legislation would authorize the VA Secretary to provide grants and assistance to state veterans agencies and county veterans service officers to enhance outreach to veterans and their families and to assist in the development and submittal of benefits claims. 

    The Veterans Outreach Improvement Act is supported by the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers, the American Legion, the VFW, the Paralyzed Veterans of America, the Military Officers Association of America, the National Organization of Veterans’ Advocates, and the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America.  The bill now goes to the U.S. Senate for consideration. 

    Congressman McIntyre is a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee and serves as Co-Chairman of the Special Operations Forces Caucus.  This past year he was named “National legislator of the Year” for his work on veterans’ issues.