"To deny anyone of their right to free speech or freedom of religion is unacceptable, but to deny our veterans, those who fought for those very freedoms we enjoy today, is inexcusable."
"Representative Gus Bilirakis's 'Retired Pay Restoration Act' (H.R. 303)"
"I hope that both agencies understand how important it is that we place a veteran in every slot."
"I have not seen anything myself in the news or, you know, on TV, you know, about this program."
"Thank you for this good legislation and thank you for holding this hearing."
"The key thing that I am looking for today from both agencies is honesty on where the program stands today and assurance that all problems are being resolved."
"I welcome this opportunity to hear what preparations have been done so far by the Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) and the Department of Labor (Labor) to implement the Veterans Retraining Assistan..."
"It would be a tragedy if we do not help veterans take advantage of this opportunity."
"In this very poor economy we should allow veterans to pursue all worthwhile occupations that lead to gainful employment."
"We need to be proactive in marketing this program and identifying pitfalls that could derail this program."
"Our Nation's veterans deserve the best effort put forth by the Administration, Congress, veteran service organizations, and all sectors of higher education."