AMVETS ASKS FOR AMENDMENTS TO HEALTH CARE REFORM BILL

In the wake of President Obama’s address on health care, questions linger for the veterans’ community

WASHINGTON, Sept. 10, 2009—Last night, President Obama addressed a special joint session of Congress on proposed health care reform. While the President pointed out that veterans enrolled in VA care would not be forced into different programs, he neglected to address AMVETS’ concerns over adequate coverage rules and enrollment options for veterans relying on VA care.

“We understand that no veteran will be forced out of the VA system, but that was never really our concern in the first place,” said AMVETS National Legislative Director Ray Kelley. “We’re concerned about the potential taxes and penalties for certain veterans enrolled in the VA health care system and the availability of care for veterans and their loved ones who may not receive sufficient coverage from the VA to meet all of their health care needs.”

This morning, AMVETS sent a letter to House Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Bob Filner (D-Calif.) outlining concerns and potential amendments that could mitigate unforeseen consequences for veterans. A copy of the letter is available on American Veteran Online, the official blog of AMVETS’ national magazine.

Though the Obama Administration has reiterated time and again that veterans will not be harmed in any way through proposed health care reform, AMVETS remains concerned about the current language used in H.R. 3200. Under the current version, cabinet level officials could determine what level of VA care is considered adequate. If deemed inadequate, veterans would either be forced to buy into the exchange option, or face taxes and penalties for inadequate coverage.

Last week, AMVETS and leaders from other top veterans’ organizations voiced their concerns to a panel of House Veterans Affairs legislators who were unable to assuage the fears of the veterans’ community.

AMVETS has now asked Filner and his colleagues to amend H.R. 3200 to consider all VA coverage adequate, while also providing an exemption that would still allow veterans and their dependents to buy into the exchange option.

“Veterans are in a unique position when it comes to health care,” said Kelley. “They have access to a public benefit that can vary drastically from one veteran to another in ways more complicated than Medicare or Medicaid. Critics may say we’re asking for special treatment. I would agree. We are asking for special treatment, and, given the circumstances, I would say that our brave men and women who have fought defending this nation duly deserve this small consideration.”

AMVETS leaders will continue to follow the debate over national health care reform and continue to pressure Congress to pass a bill reflecting the best interests of the veterans’ community. Check back regularly with www.amvets.org and American Veteran Online for updates.
About AMVETS:    
A leader since 1944 in preserving the freedoms secured by America’s armed forces, AMVETS provides support for veterans and the active military in procuring their earned entitlements, as well as community service and legislative reform that enhances the quality of life for this nation’s citizens and veterans alike. AMVETS is one of the largest congressionally-chartered veterans’ service organizations in the United States, and includes members from each branch of the military, including the National Guard and Reserves. To learn more visit www.amvets.org.