Political Quotes

“I rise to comment on important legislation passed by the Senate last evening, H.R. 1291, the Veterans Education and Benefits Expansion Act of 2001. This compromise agreement is the product of negotiations between the House and the Senate to craft an agreement between the Senate- and House-passed bills aimed at improving a wide array of benefits affecting veterans and their families. Included in this legislation is funding for improving educational benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill, enhancing veterans' compensation, and increasing home loan guarantees. This legislation also makes important investments in vocational training, education, and outreach programs to improve economic and educational opportunities for veterans who served our country. And, this legislation expands the definition of service-connected disability to include symptoms associated with 'Gulf War syndrome' thereby enabling those veterans suffering from Gulf War-related symptoms to receive the compensation and care they deserve. Our nation's veterans have served our country with distinction and have sacrificed in the defense of our country. These veterans deserve benefits commensurate to their service to our country. In many ways, this legislation recognizes the sacrifices and commitment of our nation's veterans, and rightfully rewards their service and valor.”