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FOR THE FIRST TIME IN YEARS, PRESIDENT BUSH MENTIONS

VETERANS IN STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS -- But, calls

on Congress to enact Dole-Shalala reforms which

call for disability re-evaluations.

For the first time in years, President Bush mentioned veterans in the State of the Union Address.

But, it wasn't good news.

He called for implementation of the Dole-Shalala Commission recommendations.

This would give special benefits to veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan only, set up a multi-tier disability system for many of them and then require them to go through disability re-evaluations on a regular basis.

If passed, these new rules would rewrite the book on VA benefits.  And, if passed, it would be an easy step to apply the rules to all veterans.

For more information about the Dole-Shalala Commission report, use the VA Watchdog search engine...click here...
http://www.yourvabenefits.org/sessearch.php?q=dole+shalala&op=ph

The complete State of the Union Address is here...
http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/01/28/sotu.transcript/

The portion on veterans is posted below.

-------------------------

America is a force for hope in the world because we are a compassionate people. And some of the most compassionate Americans are those who have stepped forward to protect us. we might live in freedom and peace.

Over the past seven years, we've increased funding for veterans by more than 95 percent. And as we increase funding...

(APPLAUSE)

And as we increase funding, we must also reform our veterans' system to meet the needs of a new war and a new generation.

And, as we increase funding, we must also reform our veterans system to meet the needs of a new war and a new generation.

(APPLAUSE)

I call on Congress to enact the reforms recommended by Senator Bob Dole and Secretary Donna Shalala so we can improve the system of care for our wounded warriors and help them build lives of hope and promise and dignity.

(APPLAUSE)

Our military families also sacrifice for America. They endure sleepless nights and the daily struggle of providing for children while a loved one is serving far from home.

We have a responsibility to provide for them. So I ask you to join me in expanding their access to child care, creating new hiring preferences for military spouses across the federal government, and allowing our troops to transfer their unused education benefits to their spouses or children.

Our military families serve our nation. They inspire our nation, and tonight our nation honors them.

(APPLAUSE)

-------------------------

posted by Larry Scott
Founder and Editor
VA Watchdog dot Org

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