Ann Kirkpatrick: “I submit this statement in support of H.R. 671, the Ruth Moore Act of 2013, introduced by Rep. Chellie Pingree of Maine.…”

“I submit this statement in support of H.R. 671, the Ruth Moore Act of 2013, introduced by Rep. Chellie Pingree of Maine. This legislation makes it easier for veterans to receive benefits for disabilities (PTSD) that stem from sexual assaults. The Pentagon reports that the number of sexual assaults in the military has grown from 19,000 to 26,000 since last year. One in 3 servicewomen report having been sexually assaulted, but an estimated 86 percent of assaults are never reported. Our military is a source of great strength and national pride, and we should expect nothing less than the highest standards of conduct, from rank and file troops to the upper echelons of leadership. We must eradicate the criminal, violent acts of sexual assault, and we must remove institutional barriers that allow perpetrators to go unpunished and victims to be revictimized. I agree with the provision of H.R. 671, which asks the Department of Veterans Affairs to lower the burden of proof to receive benefits. Currently, servicewomen are required to provide secondary evidence to show that the trauma occurred--a burden not required for other combat- related claims. Let's stand up for our brave servicewomen by building a better system--one that honors and affirms them as members of the mightiest military force on the globe.”