Congressional Record Statement of Senator Daniel K. Akaka

Madam President, of course, I am very disappointed that an objection has been made to this unanimous consent request. The intent of the request is to create a means by which there might be further action on this very important veterans legislation before the Congress recesses next week.

On April 24, 2008, the Senate passed S. 1315, the Veterans' Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007, by a vote of 96-1. Since that time, the bill has languished in the House.

This bill would improve benefits and services for veterans , both young and old. It includes numerous enhancements to a broad range of veterans' benefits , including life insurance programs for disabled veterans , traumatic injury coverage for active duty servicemembers, automobile and adaptive equipment benefits for individuals with severe burn injuries. In addition, the bill includes a provision that would correct an injustice done to World War II Filipino veterans over 60 years ago. It grants recognition and full veterans status to all of these individuals, both those living inside and outside the United States.

In order to cover the costs of S. 1315, the bill would overturn a court decision in a case known as Hartness. That decision allowed for certain veterans to receive an extra pension benefit based solely on their age, a result never intended by Congress. The purpose of the provision in S. 1315 is simply to restore the clear intent of Congress, but some have mischaracterized it as an attempt to withdraw benefits from deserving veterans and grant them to undeserving veterans . This misconception is the main reason that action on S. 1315 has been held up.

I am not interested today in debating the merits of the bill--either the increased benefits or the revenue provisions--but rather ask that the Senator or Senators who object to the request to set up a conference with the House--advise me of their concerns to see if it might be possible to find a way forward. I am very committed to this veterans' benefit legislation and would like to see if we can reach final action before the end of next week. If we are not able to do so, I intend to renew my efforts in the next Congress.

Madam President, I yield the floor and suggest the absence of a quorum.

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September 18, 2008