AMVETS APPLAUDS SKELTON BILL TO PROTECT MILITARY HEALTH CARE

LANHAM, Md. March 21, 2010— AMVETS leaders applaud the passing of H.R. 4887, introduced by Rep. Ike Skelton, D-Mo., that will protect specific health care benefits of military veterans, members of the Armed Forces and their families.

AMVETS National Legislative Director Raymond Kelley said Sunday that AMVETS leaders have always understood the intent of H.R. 3590: The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, and believed it would not compromise the health care benefits of American veterans.

“AMVETS continues to share the opinion of Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki and other VA and Department of Defense leaders that health care reform legislation does not threaten the veterans’ community,” said Kelley. “The successful passing of Rep. Skelton’s legislation only solidifies our belief and erases any and all doubt of potential harm.”

Kelley said AMVETS will continue to monitor the debate to ensure the Senate version of H.R. 4887 also passes.

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.