HOUSE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS DEMOCRATIC NEWS from Larry Scott at VA Watchdog dot Org -- 09-07-2005

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 7, 2005

EVANS INTRODUCES HEALTH CARE LEGISLATION TO ASSIST VETERANS AFFECTED BY HURRICANE KATRINA

Washington, D.C. – Rep. Lane Evans (D-IL) today introduced legislation to provide access to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care for all veterans affected by Hurricane Katrina.  Evans is the ranking Democratic member of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs.

“Veterans and their families who have survived the catastrophe of Hurricane Katrina need a helping hand in rebuilding their health, homes and lives.  The VA can be instrumental in helping these heroes get a fresh start and back on their feet,” said Evans.

Evans’ legislation (H.R.3666) would provide all veterans who reside or worked in the region affected by Hurricane Katrina access to the VA’s health care system, including those previously denied access by the Bush Administration’s January 2003 decision to stop providing care to certain veterans.  The bill would also enable Katrina-affected veterans who have lost all of their personal possessions, including financial records, to show up at the VA to receive health care without having to demonstrate income and asset levels. 

“The nation must act quickly and decisively to support and provide real relief to the survivors of Hurricane Katrina, and we have a special obligation to take care of our former servicemen and women who have sacrificed so much for us,” said Evans.  “These men and women may have lost everything, but they must know that the Nation is behind them and the VA will take care of them.”

Evans also praised the VA employees living and working in the hurricane affected region.  “They have done a great job under the most difficult of circumstances, now we must follow up on their efforts with appropriate services and benefits,” said Evans.

Toll free numbers have been established for veterans and VA employees in the hurricane affected areas.  Veterans or their families should call 1-800-507-4571 and affected VA employees can call 1-888-766-2474. 

Larry Scott