Iowa House of

Representatives

Wednesday, January 18, 2006 For More Information:

Rep. Reichert, 515-281-3221

HOUSE APPROVES NEW BENEFIT FOR INJURED SOLDIERS AS VETERANS VISIT CAPITOL

Des Moines, Iowa – A bill to provide new benefits for Iowa soldiers injured in combat was approved by the Iowa House of Representatives on a unanimous vote today. The bill was approved on the same day veterans from around the state were visiting the State Capitol. State Representative Nathan Reichert of Muscatine supported the new benefit, called the Veterans Appreciation Program, and voted to allocate $1 million to start the program.

“We have an obligation to make sure that veterans injured in the line of duty have the support they need and deserve,” said Reichert. “Far too many of our veterans are struggling to pay their bills while they recover from injuries.”

The Veterans Appreciation Program was first proposed by Governor Tom Vilsack last week. The money would be available to veterans injured in combat since September 11, 2001. More details of the program must be approved by the House Veterans Affairs Committee before the money can be distributed.

In addition to the Veterans Appreciation Program, the House also approved another $2 million to help veterans and their families purchase homes. Last year, the Legislature created the Veterans Home Ownership Assistance program and provided $1 million that helped 237 service members purchase a home.

“I’m pleased we are providing additional resources to help veterans and their families purchase homes,” added Reichert. “The home ownership program has been very successful and there are many families who still need assistance.”

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