Mark Takano: “I would like to express my appreciation to all the members of our committee who have worked to address these issues in a…”

“I would like to express my appreciation to all the members of our committee who have worked to address these issues in a bipartisan manner, and I truly hope we can stay focused on what is important here, which is helping veterans. This bill extends a pilot counseling program for women veterans separating from the military and coping with PTSD and other combat- related stress issues. These specialized programs are helping women transition from the military and start the next phase of their lives. I would also like to highlight an important piece of this legislation that was originally introduced by my friend and colleague, Mr. O'Rourke, the Express Appeals Act. As highlighted by my friend and colleague, Representative Titus, other members of the committee, and even the VA Secretary just 2 weeks ago, the appeals process is in crisis. We in the House have heard the cry for help and have responded. After passing this bill, we will wait for our friends in the Senate to take action. We encourage them to remember our veterans suffer for our inaction. This action provides a critical and widely supported alternative appeals process. I applaud Representatives O'Rourke and Cook, Chairman Miller, the VA, the Board of Appeals, the DAV, the VFW, PVA, AMVETS, IAVA, and MOAA in working together for almost 2 years to reach broad consensus on an alternative path forward.…”