Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of a bill to provide real consequences against those who would seek to commit fraud at the expense of America's Veterans. H.R 450, the Bipartisan ``Preventing Crimes Against Veterans Act,'' would close loopholes in existing laws and provide law enforcement with additional tools to crack down on fraud cases in connection with Veterans' benefits. In recent history, financial predators have increasingly begun targeting America's veterans, particularly those in low income housing, looking to commit fraud and rob them of their federal benefits. Many of these fraudsters pose as federal caseworkers, offering to expedite Veterans' claims or assist them with unanswered questions--only to charge them exorbitant fees while providing little or no service in return. Absolutely no veteran should be defrauded of their well-earned benefits, particularly those in need. Those who defraud veterans and their families of their benefits not only harm these victims, but they also diminish resources required to pay the claims and fund the programs needed to assist those who have served our Nation. Mr. Speaker, Congress has both a responsibility and an obligation to step up and protect our Veterans against this activity. Unfortunately, current law hamstrings prosecutors and allows for criminals engaging in this type of conduct to escape with minimal penalty. H.R. 450 would make needed changes to that process.…”