From the Desk of the TPWU Legislative Aide

 

Greetings my Brothers and Sisters:

 

MID WINTER CONFERENCE-- 2008

 

The Mid Winter conference convened in a very cold Arlington , Va. I attended this 4 day conference. This Conference consisted of classes and an opportunity to visit our elected officials on the hill in DC.

 

I attended the Legislative and Benefits protection Team workshop. I learned about the following:

 

1. Current Health Care Issues- VA funding reform, Services for caregivers

2. Standup for Veterans-Proper treatment and rehab programs for all Vets

3. VA HealthCare Funding Reform Update-New advanced funding alternative-Introduction of H.R. 2514/S. 2639

4. Fiscal year Budget-Presidents budget $38.7 million/Independent budget $42.8 Million instead

5. Public Law #110-181-National Defense Authorization Bill

1. 3 year eligibility for traumatic brain injury

2. reduce incidence of suicide among veterans

3. Chapter 61 Retirees-Military retirees with fewer than 20 years of service who were medically retired from service due to disability, and who have a combat-related disability can receive CRSC Combat Related Special Compensation (tax free) and VA Compensation., effective January 2008 for payment.

4. Presumption for mental illness is extended to Persian Gulf Veterans.

 

I visited the following Congressman Offices, Congressman Lamar Smith, Charles Gonzalez, Henry Cuellar and Ciro Rodriguez.

 

On Tuesday afternoon, I had the opportunity to be present at the joint Senate and House Veteran Affairs Committee meeting in the Cannon House and listen as veteran issues were presented to the Committee such as, an increase in the budget, a timely budget, full funding, etc.  House Chairman Bob Filner and Senate Chairman Daniel K. Akaka assured us that they will use our proposals when enacting any legislation pertinent to veterans.

 

Submitted by;

 

Conrad A. Myers Jr.

TPWU Legislative Aide