WASHINGTON, DC – Greek-American Congressman John Sarbanes released the following statement on Memorial Day, May 29:

On Memorial Day, we pay tribute to the fallen heroes who gave their lives in service to our country. We remember their sacrifice and valor and stand with many families across the country who have lost loved ones. Now more than ever, we must strengthen our democracy – and thank those who made the ultimate sacrifice defending it.

I wanted to connect with you about my work in Congress to support Veterans, active-duty service members and their families.

Additionally, I’m pleased to report that the bipartisan Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act is headed to President Biden’s desk to become law. This legislation will increase the rates of compensation for Veterans with service-connected disabilities, as well as the rates for dependency and indemnity compensation for surviving loved ones, to match the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for certain Social Security recipients in 2024.

Meanwhile, Congress continues pushing forward on other important reforms. While the House has passed these bills with bipartisan support, it is now the Senate’s decision whether to advance them:

VET-TEC Authorization Act

Permanently funds a Department of Veterans Affairs program that helps Veterans get the technical skills they need to step into in-demand, high-paying technology jobs without using their GI benefits. This will ensure that more Veterans can take advantage of the Veteran Employment Through Technology Education Courses (VET-TEC) program, which provides them with tuition, fees and a monthly housing stipend while training for technology jobs.

Korean American VALOR Act

Expands access to VA healthcare for Korean American Veterans who served as United States allies in the Vietnam War. Korean American Veterans who are now naturalized U.S. citizens have historically lacked access to VA benefits that other U.S. citizens earn through service to our country.

I will always advocate for legislation that improves the lives of Veterans, active-duty service members and their families in Maryland and across the country.

If you or a Veteran you know needs help navigating federal agencies or accessing important federal benefits, please send me an email or call (410) 832-8890 during normal business hours. My staff and I are ready to assist you.

Sincerely,

Congressman John Sarbanes

Maryland’s Third Congressional District