Richard Burr: “I am here to announce that today I introduced an alternative bill to S. 1315. I know I am joined by millions in America…”

“I am here to announce that today I introduced an alternative bill to S. 1315. I know I am joined by millions in America who also salute our Nation's veterans. These brave men and women and their families have sacrificed so much to defend our country and to protect our freedoms. As the ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs, I take very seriously my responsibilities to ensure that our veterans are getting the respect and benefits they deserve. This appreciation is the very reason why I wish to talk about the substitute to S. 1315. My bill is a commonsense alternative to an omnibus veterans bill that was reported out of the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs last June contained over 35 provisions compiled from other bills. Unlike in past Congresses, S. 1315 does not enjoy the kind of customary bipartisan support that such omnibus bills have received in the past. Why is this? In addition to all the good things it would do for the veterans, this bill also is a vehicle for a provision that would take money away from helping veterans of the war on terror and instead send the money overseas.”