Nov. 24, 2015
HARRISBURG – The Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, led by majority chairman Rep. Steve Barrar (R-Chester/Delaware), this week passed two bills and a resolution to better honor and serve veterans.
House Resolution 581, sponsored by Rep. Lynda Culver (R-Northumberland/Snyder), would implore Congress to allow veterans to use their VA health care cards at their primary doctors’ offices or local hospitals in certain circumstances. For example, it would enable veterans to use their doctor if a VA appointment is not available within 30 days.
“One of the top concerns for this committee is ensuring that veterans are awarded the benefits they have earned with the service they provided to our country,” Barrar said. “This resolution is important because it works to make the benefits that are available more user-friendly.”
The committee also approved Senate Bill 1045, sponsored by Sen. Randy Vulakovich (R-Allegheny), which would provide greater clarity on veterans’ programs by adding a characterization of discharge section. This would provide more information regarding eligibility for state veterans’ programs.
Lastly, Senate Bill 1046, also sponsored by Vulakovich, would allow the honorary retired promotion of the National Guard to be based on merit, rather than awarding it to all applicants. The promotion would not enable veterans to wear the higher uniform or enjoy the pay of the promotion level; instead, it would be a nod to their service and dedication.
The legislation now is awaiting a vote in the House.
More information about Barrar and his legislative priorities is available at
SteveBarrar.com or
Facebook.com/RepBarrar.
To view footage of the House Veterans’ Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee’s meeting, click here.
Representative Stephen E. Barrar
160th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Alison Evans
717.260.6206
aevans@pahousegop.com
SteveBarrar.com /
Facebook.com/RepBarrar