Political Quotes

“I thank the chairman for yielding, and I again want to thank the gentleman from Florida for his support on this bill as well. Madam Speaker, I want to thank Chairman Takano and Ranking Member Roe of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for working with me to ensure my bill passed out of committee on a bipartisan basis. Today, I rise to ask my colleagues for their support on my bill, H.R. 2942, the Helping Expand and Launch Transitional Health for Women Veterans Act, introduced with my colleague and fellow veteran, Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan. As a Navy veteran, one of my top priorities is ensuring that active servicemembers transitioning into the civilian world are connected to the VA system and provided the best education and tools needed to succeed. Despite being the fastest growing cohort in our military community, many servicewomen face unique challenges with their VA benefits. Studies have shown that women veterans, on average, connect with the VA nearly 3 years after military service, which can result in higher rates of physical and mental health issues. In a male-dominated VA system, it is not surprising why women veterans often report that they are uncomfortable seeking women-specific care. My bill would require the Department of Veterans Affairs to extend an ongoing initiative with the Air Force and the Transition Assistance Program, which educates transitioning servicewomen about women's healthcare at the VA.…”