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WASHINGTON – Congressman Dale E. Kildee (D-MI) announced his support for the creation of a new G.I. Bill for returning American Veterans who have served in Afghanistan and Iraq. The Welcome Home GI Bill, introduced by Congressman Rahm Emanuel (D-IL), and cospsonored by Kildee, is designed to assist veterans who have served in Afghanistan and Iraq transition back to civilian life, and is modeled on the popular Montgomery G.I. bill for troops returning from World War II.
“Millions of soldiers’ families used the GI bill after World War II to make the transition to civilian life. Every returning Veteran was given the chance to go to college and pursue the life they fought for,” Kildee said. “The troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, men and women who risk their lives everyday to protect our lives, deserve this same chance. This bill will provide better health care, job training, and housing benefits for those returning soldiers who have answered the call.”
The Welcome Home GI Bill would provide any regular enlistee, reservist, or National Guardsmen, who served for at least six consecutive months in either Iraq or Afghanistan since September 11, 2001 with:
- Health Care – The bill would provide returning American Veterans who are unable to secure health care from an employer with the same medical care they received while in the service. Veterans and their families would be entitled to this benefit for up to five years.
- Education and Job Training –$75,000 over 48 months to returning Veterans to pay for college or vocational training. Veterans could also use this money to pay off existing student loans.
- Housing – In addition to existing Veterans Administration’s home loan guarantees, this bill would grant returning veterans a $5,000 down payment to purchase a home.
“The financial and emotional burden placed on our military personnel the last few years has been immense,” Kildee concluded. “We must work together to make sure that America’s heroes receive the care and services they deserve.” |
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