Urgent Support Needed for Veterans and Caregivers

Every night, combat-injured veterans who retired before completing 20 years of service calculate their payments. These checks are often less than expected because current laws require veterans to exchange part of their retirement pay for the disability compensation they deserve.

Meanwhile, their caregivers, numbering 14.3 million across the United States, tirelessly provide essential care without pay. The economic value of their work exceeds $400 billion annually. Many have forsaken careers and personal savings to care for their loved ones, facing financial hardships they should not bear alone. This situation persists due to Congressional inaction.

Although Congress had the opportunity to vote on crucial legislation, they missed the chance. This pattern of delay affects veterans and caregivers waiting for long-required support.

Sen. Blumenthal, Rep. Takano: Congress Can Fund Veterans’ Care Without Taking Benefits From Disabled Heroes

We represent two national organizations. One advocates for veterans in communities nationwide, and the other supports caregivers. Together, alongside 21 other groups, we endorse the “Take Care of America’s Veterans Act.” This is a vital legislative opportunity for veterans, caregivers, and survivors who sacrificed greatly for the nation. The bill aims to advance over 60 stalled initiatives including concurrent retirement pay, survivor benefits, caregiver support, and suicide prevention.

At the heart of the legislation are crucial acts. The “Major Richard Star Act” aims to end offsets costing combat-injured veterans, the “Sharri Briley and Eric Edmundson Benefits Expansion Act” enhances support for survivors and severely injured veterans, and the “Love Lives On Act” ensures benefits for survivors who remarry.

These measures directly impact veterans dealing with financial shortfalls and support caregivers and widows who need backing to help veterans heal at home rather than in isolation.

Veterans Could Decide the Midterms, and the VA Is Why

Concerns have arisen about funding the bill. The VA proposed a rule regarding sleep apnea and tinnitus as a cost-saving measure, facing opposition from veteran organizations. However, the VA plans to finalize this rule soon.

If this bill does not pass, funds will return to the Treasury, diverting resources away from veterans. Former Sen. Elizabeth Dole’s vision for caregiving families, including veterans, is central to this legislation. The nation’s 250th anniversary was marked by tributes, yet veterans and their caregivers are still waiting for affirmative action.

Timely votes in Congress are crucial. Support for this bill honors the true cost of service with concrete legislative action, not mere words. Our organizations are committed to guiding Congress to pass this essential legislation, ensuring veterans and caregivers receive the support they rightfully deserve.

Steve Schwab is CEO of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. Dan K. Wiley is National Commander of The American Legion.