Rep. Takano Issues Remarks in Support of Heroes Act

WASHINGTON, May 16 -- Rep. Mark Takano, D-California, chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, issued the following floor remarks on May 15 in support of the Heroes Act:

"The public health emergency our country is facing requires immediate, bold action. That's why I rise today in support of H.R. 6800, the Heroes Act.

"The Heroes Act will provide families, workers, and veterans in our communities with the support they urgently need during this pandemic.

"As Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, I'm proud that this bill includes essential provisions to meet veterans' needs.

"The Heroes Act authorizes VA healthcare for all veterans who have lost their health insurance due to the pandemic, including legislation introduced by Subcommittee Chair Rep. Pappas to streamline the payment of emergency care claims to community providers.

"As a result of COVID-19, veterans are facing financial hardships due to job loss while vital services are strained, leaving vulnerable veterans without support. This bill includes provisions sponsored by Subcommittee Chair Rep. Levin enabling VA to provide greater support for homeless veterans and their children.

"And it also includes legislation from Rep. Allred increasing aid and attendance support by twenty-five percent for veterans and caregivers. Those who need assistance with daily activities must not be forgotten.

"In addition to these strong veteran provisions, the Heroes Act responds to the dire economic and healthcare challenge our nation is facing.

"It provides $1 trillion in funding to support states and local governments in their response to this pandemic so they can continue their essential services.

"And it addresses the urgent needs of families and workers by putting direct financial assistance in the pockets of every American, creating a $200 billion Heroes Fund to give hazard pay to essential workers, and providing assistance to renters and homeowners.

"We are facing an extraordinary crisis. Congress needs to respond to it with the courageousness it demands. The health and livelihoods of the American people depends on it.

"I urge my colleagues to vote - YES."

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See a video of Chairman Takano's floor speech here: https://www.dropbox.com/s/a1f4af78i09crkg/Takano%20-%20Heroes%20Floor%20Speech.mp4?dl=0