I see today's hearing as a timely opportunity to focus on bringing more solutions to the table about how to improve the disability claims processing system to produce better outcomes for our veterans.

We have veterans committing suicide in shameful numbers, the most recent figure being 18 veterans every single day.

As soon as possible, I would think. I tell you, when we take these to the floor, Members need to know exactly what the concerns are.

I think it is one of the best examples because those of us that had that experience flew in because we had to provide cover for the C-123s that were spraying the Agent Orange largely around these high artillery bases in Vietnam.

My legislation would expand the caregiver program to include not just serious injuries, but would also cover those who incurred or aggravated serious illnesses as well.

I have introduced legislation, HR 3279, which would make a further needed improvement to the program.

I support Congressman Reyes' bill, H.R. 3279.

I can tell you, it didn't taste anything like oranges.

I am a little bit puzzled because as I understand it, the only objection to H.R. 3279 is the cost.

We are obligated to take care of them.

That is what makes it so frustrating for those of us who have had those experiences, to try to get legislation through and not be taken seriously by the way definitions are made, by the way people implement the law.