Macomb, IL – With Memorial Day approaching, an Illinois congressman wants to honor veterans by ensuring there is money to pay for their health care services.
The measure is called the Assured Funding for Veterans Health Care Act of 2007.
The bill is being promoted by Congressman Phil Hare (D-IL). He says it would require the federal budget to contain money for veterans' health care needs.
Hare says the funding level for the program would be based on the number of veterans times the rate of inflation.
Hare says right now, Veterans' Administration health care is not a mandatory appropriation. He thinks that funding should be guaranteed.
Additional information:
*Hare is serving his first term in office. He replaced Democrat Lane Evans, who was well known for his strong support for veterans.
*Hare says there are nearly 80 co-sponsors of the bill. He plans to introduce it Thursday May 24.
*Hare says the measure will initially be considered by the House Veterans' Affairs Committee.
*Hare thinks the troops being sent to Iraq do not have sufficient training or equipment. He also believes the war needs to be settled through diplomacy.