John Spratt: “just about a month ago, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Henry Shelton, testified that guaranteeing…”

“just about a month ago, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Henry Shelton, testified that guaranteeing life-time health care is not only important to keeping the promises made to those who have dedicated their careers to military service, but also to attract and retain quality personnel today. This issue is tied to the readiness of our Armed Forces, and will be one of the top defense issues Congress will have to address this year. In truth, I was surprised to see that the Republican budget resolution does not provide any funding over the next five years to improve health care for military retirees over the age of 65, not even funds to pay for prescription drug coverage. The Democratic alternative budget, however, does not dodge this issue. Currently, military retirees 65 or older lose guaranteed access to the Department of Defense (DOD) health care system. The Democratic budget funds two major initiatives the Republican resolution ignores: a permanent and nationwide expansion of Medicare Subvention, and a guarantee that these retirees have access to the Department of Defense's prescription drug plans.”