John Drake: “we all were deeply affected by the tragic events of this past April at Virginia Tech. Our hearts and prayers go out to…”

“we all were deeply affected by the tragic events of this past April at Virginia Tech. Our hearts and prayers go out to the families and friends of those who lost loved ones and to those who are struggling to recover from their injuries. The days, weeks, and months since that dark day have been a time of healing for the Virginia Tech community, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the Nation. I am moved by the outpouring of compassion and generosity that have been displayed since this tragedy. Virginia Tech University established the Hokie Spirit Memorial Fund in order to aid in the healing process and generate financial support for those affected. Thousands of individuals gave graciously in the hope of assisting the victims' families in their time of need. In fact, Virginia Tech has distributed millions from the fund to the families of the 32 deceased victims and 47 injured students. The least that this Congress can do in assisting these families is to exempt payments made from the Hokie Spirit Memorial Fund from Federal taxes, and I would like to thank Congressman Boucher for his leadership in crafting this bill and bringing it to the floor.”