SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS NEWS

SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS NEWS - from VA WATCHDOG DOT ORG Information from the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs. http://www.vawatchdog.org AKAKA RECEIVES ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR AWARD FROM THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF STATE DIRECTORS OF VETERANS AFFAIRS -- 03-18-2010 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/scva10/scva031810-2.htm AUDIT REQUESTED BY AKAKA FINDS MULTIPLE SHORTCOMINGS IN VA MEDICAL EXAMS FOR BENEFITS CLAIMS -- 03-18-2010 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/scva10/scva031810-1.htm AKAKA AND MAJORITY OF COMMITTEE MEMBERS SUPPORT OBAMA BUDGET FOR VETERANS, URGE ADDITIONAL INVESTMENTS -- 03-08-2010 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/scva10/scva030810-1.htm AKAKA CONTINUES FOCUS ON THE INVISIBLE WOUNDS OF WAR -- 03-03-2010 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/scva10/scva030310-1.htm AKAKA AND SHINSEKI AGREE ON NEED TO REFORM VA CLAIMS SYSTEM -- 02-26-2010 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/scva10/scva022610-1.htm VA VOWS TO IMPROVE TRACKING OF MILITARY SEXUAL TRAUMA CARE FOLLOWING INSPECTOR GENERAL FINDINGS -- 02-04-2010 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/scva10/scva020410-1.htm PRESIDENT SIGNS VETERANS' EMERGENCY CARE FAIRNESS ACT -- 02-02-2010 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/scva10/scva020210-1.htm VETERANS' AFFAIRS COMMITTEE APPROVES BILLS AIMED AT MILITARY EXPOSURES, HOMELESSNESS AND HEALTH CARE -- 01-28-2010 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/10/scva10/scva012810-1.htm COMMITTEE UNANIMOUSLY APPROVES NOMINEE TO LEAD VA HEALTH CARE -- 12-16-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva121609-1.htm AKAKA PRAISES STRONG VA FUNDING IN APPROPRIATIONS BILL -- 12-14-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva121409-1.htm AKAKA CALLS FOR CONFIRMATION OF VA LEADERS THIS MONTH -- 12-09-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva120909-1.htm SENATE PASSES SWEEPING REFORM FOR VETERANS AND THEIR CAREGIVERS 98-0 -- 11-19-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva111909-1.htm AKAKA HOLDS HEARING ON VETERANS' EMPLOYMENT -- 11-18-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva111809-1.htm AKAKA DELIVERS VETERANS DAY SPEECH AT WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL -- 11-11-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva111109-1.htm VETERANS' AFFAIRS COMMITTEE LEADERS SUGGEST IMPROVEMENTS ON GI BILL PROCESSING -- 11-09-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva110909-1.htm AKAKA CALLS FOR PASSAGE OF OMNIBUS BILL FOR VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES -- 11-06-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva110609-1.htm PRESIDENT SIGNS VA HEALTH CARE ADVANCE FUNDING INTO LAW -- 10-22-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva102209-1.htm AKAKA HOLDS HEARING ON PENDING VETERANS LEGISLATION -- 10-21-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva102109-1.htm AKAKA APPLAUDS PASSAGE, URGES PRESIDENT TO SIGN VETERANS' HEALTH CARE ADVANCE FUNDING BILL -- 10-16-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva101609-1.htm Bill to Authorize Advanced Appropriations Heading to President's Desk -- 10-14-2009 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva101409-1.htm Veterans' Committee Addresses Water Contamination at Camp Lejeune -- 10-08-2009 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva100809-2.htm AKAKA CHAIRS HEARING ON MILITARY EXPOSURES -- 10-08-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva100809-1.htm SENATE PASSES VETERANS' BENEFITS LEGISLATION -- 10-07-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva100709-1.htm AKAKA CHAIRS HEARING ON VA'S 3 BILLION IN ANNUAL CARE CONTRACTING -- 09-30-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva093009-1.htm AKAKA, TESTER CALL FOR DELIBERATE ACTION TO FIX VA'S VETERANS' DISABILITY COMPENSATION SYSTEM -- 09-17-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva091709-1.htm SENATE CONFIRMS OBAMA NOMINEE TO BE VA ASSISTANT SECRETARY -- 08-07-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva080709-3.htm SENATE CONFIRMS RAY JEFFERSON TO BE ASSISTANT VA SECRETARY -- 08-07-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva080709-2.htm SENATE PASSES AKAKA'S VA ADVANCE FUNDING BILL -- 08-07-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva080709-1.htm COMMITTEE APPROVES RAY JEFFERSON TO BE ASSISTANT SECRETARY -- 08-03-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva080309-2.htm CHAIRMAN AKAKA CELEBRATES LAUNCH OF POST 9-11 GI BILL -- 08-03-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva080309-1.htm PANEL AGREES ON NEED TO REFORM VETERANS' DISABILITY SYSTEM -- 07-29-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva072909-1.htm VETERANS' AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REVIEWS OBAMA ADMINISTRATION NOMINEES -- 07-22-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva072209-1.htm AKAKA URGES SHINSEKI TO TERMINATE CONTRACT WITH UNIVERSITY AFTER INVESTIGATION REVEALS BREACH OF TERMS -- 07-16-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva071609-1.htm WOMEN VETERANS TESTIFY THAT VA MUST IMPROVE OUTREACH AND EXPAND PROGRAMS FOR FAST-GROWING FEMALE POPULATION -- 07-15-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva071509-1.htm CONGRESSIONALLY MANDATED NATIONAL REVIEW OF VA DOMICILIARIES RELEASED - VA AGREES REFORM NEEDED -- 07-09-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva070909-1.htm AKAKA and WEBB APPLAUD VICTORY FOR THE TOMB OF THE UNKNOWN -- 06-26-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva062609-1.htm AKAKA CALLS FOR RESTRUCTURING OF VA HEALTH CARE QUALITY MANAGEMENT -- 06-24-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva062409-2.htm VETERANS COMPENSATION COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENT LEGISLATION SENT TO WHITE HOUSE -- 06-24-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva062409-1.htm Committee Announces Philadelphia Field Hearing For June 29th -- 06-23-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva062309-1.htm AKAKA COMMENTS ON VETERANS AFFAIRS INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY REFORM PLAN -- 06-22-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva062209-1.htm AKAKA URGES REEVALUATION OF VA'S HEALTH CARE INFRASTRUCTURE -- 06-11-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva061109-2.htm VETERANS' COMPENSATION COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENT BILL PASSES SENATE -- 06-11-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva061109-1.htm SENATE COMMITTEE ADVANCES AKAKA LEGISLATION FOR VETS -- 05-21-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva052109-1.htm VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA HONORS AKAKA WITH DIVERSITY AWARD -- 05-20-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva052009-1.htm SENATE CONFIRMS OBAMA'S VA NOMINEES -- 05-18-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva051809-1.htm COMMITTEE APPROVES OBAMA VA NOMINEES -- 05-12-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva051209-1.htm PRESIDENT'S BUDGET PROPOSAL INCLUDES PLANS FOR VA ADVANCE APPROPRIATIONS -- 05-08-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva050809-2.htm VA PROVIDES OVERDUE RELIEF FOR VETERANS IN NURSING HOMES -- 05-08-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva050809-1.htm INSPECTOR GENERAL TO REVIEW VA MILITARY SEXUAL TRAUMA BILLING POLICY NATIONWIDE DUE TO AKAKA OVERSIGHT -- 05-07-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva050709-1.htm AKAKA CALLS FOR SWIFT CONFIRMATION OF VA LEADERSHIP TEAM AT HEARING -- 05-06-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva050609-1.htm COMMITTEE REVIEWS PENDING BILLS FOR VETERANS' BENEFITS -- 04-29-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva042909-2.htm AKAKA APPLAUDS PASSAGE OF BUDGET RESOLUTION WITH ADVANCE VA FUNDING PROVISION -- 04-29-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva042909-1.htm Burr Statement on VA Committee Hearing -- 04-23-2009 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva042309-2.htm VETERANS' GROUPS GIVE UNANIMOUS SUPPORT TO CAREGIVER AND RURAL HEALTH BILLS AT HEALTH CARE HEARING -- 04-23-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva042309-1.htm TAMMY DUCKWORTH CONFIRMED AS VA ASSISTANT SECRETARY -- 04-22-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva042209-1.htm DUCKWORTH NOMINATION APPROVED BY VETERANS' AFFAIRS COMMITTEE -- 04-20-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva042009-1.htm AKAKA DISAPPOINTED BY CONTINUED COMPUTERIZED SCHEDULING FAILURES -- 04-15-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva041509-1.htm CHAIRMAN AKAKA'S ADVANCE FUNDING LEGISLATION GAINS MOMENTUM WITH ADMINISTRATION SUPPORT -- 04-09-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva040909-1.htm AKAKA INTRODUCES VETERANS' FAMILY CAREGIVER BILL -- 04-02-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva040209-1.htm AKAKA CHAIRS CONFIRMATION HEARING FOR VA NOMINEES GOULD AND DUCKWORTH -- 04-01-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva040109-1.htm AKAKA INTRODUCES BILL TO BREAK DOWN BARRIERS TO RURAL VETERANS' HEALTH CARE -- 03-30-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva033009-1.htm AKAKA INTRODUCES OMNIBUS VETERANS' BENEFITS BILL -- 03-26-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva032609-1.htm AKAKA ON THE NEW GI BILL - FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION -- 03-25-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva032509-1.htm VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS HONORS AKAKA WITH 2009 CONGRESSIONAL LEADERSHIP AWARD -- 03-18-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva031809-3.htm AKAKA PRAISES OBAMA ADMINISTRATION FOR DROPPING PROPOSAL TO CHARGE VETERANS' INSURERS FOR COMBAT INJURIES -- 03-18-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva031809-2.htm AKAKA ANNOUNCES CONFIRMATION HEARINGS ON VA NOMINEES GOULD AND DUCKWORTH -- 03-18-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva031809-1.htm AKAKA - VA, NOT PRIVATE INSURERS, ARE OBLIGATED TO PAY FOR COMBAT INJURIES -- 03-17-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva031709-2.htm SENATE VETERANS' AFFAIRS COMMITTEE PROVIDES VIEWS ON VETERANS' BUDGET -- 03-17-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva031709-1.htm AKAKA HEARING FOCUSES ATTENTION ON OBAMA'S VA BUDGET -- 03-10-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva031009-1.htm AKAKA INTRODUCES BILL TO IMPROVE VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION FOR DISABLED VETERANS -- 03-03-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva030309-1.htm HEARING HIGHLIGHTS GAPS IN CARE FOR RURAL VETERANS -- 02-26-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva022609-2.htm AKAKA APPLAUDS DOD AND VA MEETING TO ADDRESS INCREASE IN ACTIVE DUTY SUICIDES -- 02-26-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva022609-1.htm LEGISLATION INTRODUCED TO SECURE TIMELY FUNDING FOR VETERANS' HEALTH CARE -- 02-12-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva021209-1.htm AKAKA INTRODUCES VETERANS' EMERGENCY CARE FAIRNESS BILL -- 02-11-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva021109-4.htm AKAKA AND BURR CALL FOR PROMPT TOP LEVEL DOD-VA MEETING ON SOLDIER SUICIDES -- 02-11-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva021109-3.htm AKAKA CHAIRS HEARING ON IMPROVING THE APPEALS PROCESS FOR VETERANS' DISABILITY CLAIMS -- 02-11-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva021109-2.htm AKAKA INTRODUCES COST-OF-LIVING-INCREASE FOR DISABLED VETERANS WITH UNANIMOUS COMMITTEE SUPPORT -- 02-11-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva021109-1.htm AKAKA CHEERS NOMINATION OF TAMMY DUCKWORTH TO BE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR VETERANS AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT -- 02-03-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva020309-1.htm VETERANS ORGANIZATIONS GIVE UNANIMOUS SUPPORT FOR ADVANCE FUNDING OF VETERANS' HEALTH CARE -- 01-28-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva012809-2.htm INSPECTOR GENERAL RELEASES INVESTIGATION ON VA STAFFER'S EMAIL DISCOURAGING PTSD DIAGNOSIS -- 01-28-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva012809-1.htm GAO - VA NOT BUDGETING FOR FULL COST OF LONG-TERM CARE -- 01-23-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva012309-2.htm Burr Announces Committee Assignments for 111th Congress -- 01-23-2009 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva012309-1.htm AKAKA STATEMENT ON SHINSEKI CONFIRMATION -- 01-20-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva012009-1.htm AKAKA REINTRODUCES SWEEPING VETERANS' HEALTH CARE BILL -- 01-15-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva011509-1.htm Burr Praises Nomination of General Shinseki Calls for Shinseki's confirmation as Secretary of Veterans Affairs -- 01-14-2009 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva011409-2.htm AKAKA CHAIRS HEARING ON SHINSEKI NOMINATION -- 01-14-2009 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/09/scva09/scva011409-1.htm VA AGREES TO FIX FLAWED PROCEDURES WHICH LED TO THOUSANDS OF VETERANS' WIDOWS BEING WRONGFULLY DENIED BENEFITS -- 12-17-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva121708-1.htm Committee Announces Hearing date for General Eric Shinseki -- 12-10-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva121008-1.htm Burr Announces Opening of New VA Clinics in NC -- 12-05-2008 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva120508-2.htm INSPECTOR GENERAL REPORTS REQUESTED BY AKAKA FIND FLAWS IN VA APPOINTMENT MAKING -- 12-05-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva120508-1.htm VA BOOSTS TRAVEL REIMBURSEMENTS, SHARPLY REDUCES DEDUCTIBLES FOR VETS -- 11-18-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva111808-1.htm AKAKA AND ROCKEFELLER ASK FOR ANSWERS ON PLAN TO CHANGE VETERANS' HEALTH CARE -- 10-29-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva102908-1.htm VA CAN IMPROVE NURSE RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION, SAYS GAO REPORT REQUESTED BY AKAKA AND SALAZAR -- 10-24-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva102408-1.htm AKAKA RESPONDS TO BURR STATEMENT ON FILIPINO VETERANS -- 10-20-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva102008-1.htm VETERANS' COMPENSATION COST-OF-LIVING-INCREASE ANNOUNCED -- 10-16-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva101608-2.htm AKAKA RESPONDS TO VA FREEZE ON DOCUMENT SHREDDING -- 10-16-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva101608-1.htm SWEEPING VETERANS' MENTAL HEALTH BILL NOW LAW -- 10-10-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva101008-2.htm OMNIBUS VETERANS' BENEFITS BILL NOW LAW -- 10-10-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva101008-1.htm AKAKA - ONE WEEK LEFT TO FILE FOR YOUR STIMULUS CHECK -- 10-08-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva100808-1.htm "A-PLUS" FOR AKAKA ON IRAQ AND AFGHANISTAN VETERANS' ISSUES -- 10-07-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva100708-1.htm AKAKA VOWS TO CONTINUE FIGHTING FOR FILIPINO WORLD WAR II VETERANS EQUITY -- 10-03-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva100308-1.htm CONGRESS PASSES OMNIBUS VETERANS' BENEFITS LEGISLATION -- 09-27-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva092708-5.htm CONGRESS PASSES SWEEPING VETERANS' MENTAL HEALTH LEGISLATION -- 09-27-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva092708-4.htm FUNDING BILL FOR MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS AFFAIRS, DEFENSE AND HOMELAND SECURITY PASSES SENATE WITH AKAKA'S SUPPORT -- 09-27-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva092708-3.htm Burr Applauds Passage of Veterans' Mental Health Bill -- 09-27-2008 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva092708-2.htm Burr Praises Passage of Veterans' Benefits Bill -- 09-27-2008 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva092708-1.htm AKAKA SEEKS NEGOTIATIONS ON OMNIBUS VETERANS' LEGISLATION -- 09-24-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva092408-3.htm AKAKA HOLDS HEARING ON DOD-VA ELECTRONIC HEALTH RECORDS -- 09-24-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva092408-2.htm AKAKA'S COST-OF-LIVING INCREASE FOR VETERANS NOW LAW -- 09-24-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva092408-1.htm SENATE COMMITTEE APPROVES NOMINATION OF PATRICK DUNNE TO BE VETERANS AFFAIRS UNDER SECRETARY FOR BENEFITS -- 09-23-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva092308-1.htm 2.7 MILLION DOLLAR GRANT FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO KAILUA-KONA VETERANS CEMETERY, AKAKA AND INOUYE ANNOUNCE -- 09-22-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva092208-1.htm SENATORS INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL TO GUARANTEE ADVANCE FUNDING OF VETERANS' HEALTH CARE -- 09-18-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva091808-1.htm OMNIBUS VETERANS' BENEFITS BILL PASSES SENATE WITH UNANIMOUS SUPPORT -- 09-17-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva091708-3.htm AKAKA HOLDS NOMINATION HEARING FOR VETERANS AFFAIRS UNDER SECRETARY FOR BENEFITS -- 09-17-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva091708-2.htm ARMY-VA REPORT SHOWS POTENTIAL TO SAVE TOMB OF THE UNKNOWNS -- 09-17-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva091708-1.htm AKAKA DELIVERS FLOOR SPEECH ON RISING RATE OF VETERAN SUICIDE -- 09-11-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva091108-1.htm DEFENSE DEPARTMENT FAILING TO EFFECTIVELY MONITOR HEALTH OF RETURNING TROOPS, NEW GAO REPORT SHOWS -- 09-09-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva090908-2.htm DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS ENDS BAN ON VOTER REGISTRATION -- 09-09-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva090908-1.htm "VA RESEARCH MUST BE ABOVE REPROACH," SAYS AKAKA -- 08-06-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva080608-1.htm AKAKA GIVES FLOOR SPEECH UPDATE ON VETERANS' LEGISLATION -- 07-31-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva073108-3.htm Burr Applauds Passage of Bill to Increase Benefits for Wounded Veterans and Their Families -- 07-31-2008 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva073108-2.htm SENATE UNANIMOUSLY APPROVES COLA INCREASE FOR DISABLED VETERANS -- 07-31-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva073108-1.htm AKAKA HOLDS HEARING ON OUTREACH TO VETERANS OF THE NATIONAL GUARD AND RESERVES -- 07-23-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva072308-1.htm VA FAILING TO INFORM GUARD AND RESERVISTS RETURNING FROM IRAQ-AFGHANISTAN OF POTENTIAL BENEFITS, NEW IG REPORT SHOWS -- 07-21-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva072108-1.htm AKAKA, FEINSTEIN AND KERRY URGE VETERANS AFFAIRS SECRETARY TO END PROHIBITION ON VOTER REGISTRATION -- 07-10-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva071008-1.htm SENATE COMMITTEE APPROVES NOMINATION OF CHRISTINE HILL TO BE VETERANS AFFAIRS ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR CONGRESSIONAL AFFAIRS -- 07-09-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva070908-2.htm CHAIRMAN URGES REDUCTION IN BACKLOG OF VETERANS DISABILITY CLAIMS, NOTES PROGRESS -- 07-09-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva070908-1.htm AKAKA CHEERS ENACTMENT OF 21ST CENTURY GI BILL -- 06-30-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva063008-1.htm AKAKA HAILS SENATE-PASSAGE OF NEW GI BILL, URGES PRESIDENT BUSH TO SIGN -- 06-27-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva062708-1.htm Burr's "Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act" Approved By Senate Panel -- 06-26-2008 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva062608-2.htm SENATE COMMITTEE APPROVES OMNIBUS VETERANS HEALTH AND BENEFITS LEGISLATION -- 06-26-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva062608-1.htm Burr Introduces Legislation To Provide Veterans With Greater Access To Dental Insurance -- 06-23-2008 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva062308-1.htm AKAKA CALLS FOR SWIFT PASSAGE OF AGREEMENT ON GI BILL -- 06-19-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva061908-1.htm AKAKA URGES MORE CAREFUL TREATMENT OF VETERANS IN VA DRUG TESTING -- 06-18-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva061808-1.htm THE WAR WITHIN - EDITORIAL BY CHAIRMAN AKAKA -- 06-16-2008 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva061608-1.htm Burr, Byrd Introduce Resolution Honoring Last American World War I Veteran -- 06-12-2008 #1 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva061208-1.htm VA MUST REGAIN THE CONFIDENCE OF VETERANS AND ENSURE APPROPRIATE DIAGNOSIS OF INVISIBLE WOUNDS, SAYS AKAKA -- 06-04-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva060408-2.htm AKAKA CLARIFIES OFFSET PROVISION IN VETERANS BENEFITS ENHANCEMENT ACT OF 2007 -- 06-04-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva060408-1.htm SENATE PASSES VETERANS' MENTAL HEALTH CARE IMPROVEMENTS -- 06-03-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva060308-1.htm AKAKA REACTS TO VOTE ON GI BILL -- 05-22-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva052208-1.htm COMMITTEE REVIEWS PENDING VETERANS' HEALTH LEGISLATION -- 05-21-2008 #3 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva052108-3.htm Senate Veterans' Committee Considers Burr Mental Health Bill -- 05-21-2008 #2 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva052108-2.htm AKAKA COSPONSORS WARNER AMENDMENT PROTECTING TRANSFERABILITY OF GI BILL BENEFITS TO FAMILY MEMBERS -- 05-21-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva052108-1.htm Committee To Examine Mental Health Bill Sponsored By Burr -- 05-20-2008 #1 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva052008-1.htm AKAKA CALLS FOR SENATE SUPPORT OF 21ST CENTURY GI BILL -- 05-19-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva051908-2.htm INSPECTOR GENERAL REPORT FINDS THAT VA CONTINUES TO INACCURATELY REPORT PATIENT WAIT TIMES -- 05-19-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva051908-1.htm Burr Calls For IG Investigation At Temple, Texas VA Medical Center -- 05-16-2008 #3 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva051608-3.htm AKAKA REQUESTS DOCUMENTS AND INVESTIGATION OF VETERANS AFFAIRS PTSD DIAGNOSIS FOLLOWING DISTURBING EMAIL -- 05-16-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva051608-2.htm AKAKA CALLS VA EMPLOYEE'S SUGGESTION TO MISDIAGNOSE VETERANS DISTURBING AND DISAPPOINTING -- 05-16-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva051608-1.htm AKAKA USES OVERSIGHT AUTHORITY TO FORMALLY REQUEST SUICIDE DATA FROM DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS -- 05-15-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva051508-1.htm AKAKA HOLDS HEARING ON PENDING VETERANS' BENEFITS LEGISLATION -- 05-07-2008 #3 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva050708-3.htm Burr Applauds Senate Committee Approval Of National Parks Discount For Veterans, Soldiers -- 05-07-2008 #2 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva050708-2.htm Senate Veterans' Committee Hears Testimony On Education And Disability Modernization Legislation -- 05-07-2008 #1 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva050708-1.htm Senate Veterans' Committee To Consider Education, Disability Modernization Legislation -- 05-06-2008 #2 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva050608-2.htm MORE DATA ON VETERAN SUICIDES DISCLOSED -- 05-06-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva050608-1.htm INVESTIGATION OF VETERANS NONPROFIT RESEARCH CORPORATIONS FINDS NEED FOR STRONGER OVERSIGHT -- 05-05-2008 #3 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva050508-3.htm AKAKA DISCUSSES VETERAN SUICIDES WITH VETERANS AFFAIRS SECRETARY -- 05-05-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva050508-2.htm Burr Praises Opening of New VA Clinic in Hamlet -- 05-05-2008 #1 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva050508-1.htm Burr Applauds Opening Of New VA Clinic In Jacksonville -- 05-02-2008 #3 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva050208-3.htm AKAKA INTRODUCES BILL TO STRENGTHEN VA MEDICAL PERSONNEL RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION -- 05-02-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva050208-2.htm SENATORS ANNOUNCE ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR NATIONAL CENTER ON PTSD -- 05-02-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva050208-1.htm AKAKA INTRODUCES BILL TO HELP VETERANS REFINANCE HOMES -- 05-01-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva050108-2.htm FOLLOW UP INSPECTOR GENERAL INVESTIGATION FINDS UNMET NEEDS AMONG VETERANS WITH TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY -- 05-01-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva050108-1.htm SENATORS CALL FOR ACTION TO IMPROVE VETERANS' MENTAL HEALTH CARE -- 04-30-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva043008-2.htm MEMBERS OF CONGRESS, HUNDREDS OF IRAQ and AFGHANISTAN WAR VETERANS CALL FOR SWIFT PASSAGE OF WEBB GI BILL -- 04-30-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva043008-1.htm AKAKA INTRODUCES BILL TO CONTINUE OVERSIGHT FOR TROOPS RETURNING FROM COMBAT INTO NEXT ADMINISTRATION -- 04-29-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva042908-1.htm Senate To Consider Burr Amendment To Veterans Bill -- 04-24-2008 #2 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva042408-2.htm SENATE PASSES VETERANS BENEFITS ENHANCEMENT ACT OF 2007 -- 04-24-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva042408-1.htm AKAKA PUSHES VA, DEFENSE SECRETARIES ON TRANSITION OF SERVICEMEMBERS AND ACCURATE DATA TO PREVENT SUICIDES -- 04-23-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva042308-1.htm Graham, Burr, McCain Unveil Legislation to Assist Servicemembers, Veterans, Guardsmen and Reservists with Increased Education Benefits -- 04-22-2008 #3 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva042208-3.htm AKAKA CALLS FOR RESIGNATION OF VA MENTAL HEALTH OFFICER KATZ -- 04-22-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva042208-2.htm SENATE VOTES 94-0 TO DEBATE THE VETERANS BENEFITS ENHANCEMENT ACT OF 2007 -- 04-22-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva042208-1.htm AKAKA URGES CONSIDERATION OF COMPREHENSIVE VETERANS' BILL -- 04-21-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva042108-1.htm CLOTURE FILED ON VETERANS BENEFITS ENHANCEMENT ACT OF 2007 -- 04-18-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva041808-1.htm AKAKA INTRODUCES VETERANS' REHABILITATION LEGISLATION -- 04-15-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva041508-1.htm Burr Applauds Veterans' Provisions in Housing Bill -- 04-10-2008 #3 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva041008-3.htm VETERANS' HOUSING PACKAGE PASSES SENATE -- 04-10-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva041008-2.htm FOLLOWING REVISIONS, AKAKA TO COSPONSOR WEBB GI BILL -- 04-10-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva041008-1.htm AKAKA CHAIRS HEARING ON STRENGTHENING VA'S HIRING HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS -- 04-09-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva040908-1.htm AKAKA INTRODUCES VETERANS COMPENSATION EQUITY BILL -- 04-07-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva040708-1.htm AKAKA INTRODUCES BILL REQUIRING VA-COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS TO REACH RURAL, MINORITY, AND UNDERSERVED VETERANS -- 04-04-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva040408-2.htm VETERANS AND MILITARY ORGANIZATIONS CALL FOR STRONGER VA BUDGET -- 04-04-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva040408-1.htm PURPLE HEART VETERANS GIVE AKAKA LEADERSHIP AWARD -- 04-03-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva040308-1.htm AKAKA SUBMITS VETERANS' MEDICAL FACILITY CONSTRUCTION BILL -- 04-02-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva040208-1.htm AKAKA AND SANDERS MEET WITH VETERANS AFFAIRS SECRETARY PEAKE -- 04-01-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva040108-1.htm SENATE AND HOUSE VETERANS COMMITTEES URGE VA TO OPEN ITS DOORS TO MIDDLE-INCOME VETERANS -- 03-14-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva031408-2.htm SENATE PASSES BUDGET RESOLUTION WITH BILLIONS MORE FOR VETERANS -- 03-14-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva031408-1.htm AKAKA SEEKS IMPROVED HOME OWNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES FOR VETERANS -- 03-13-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva031308-1.htm AKAKA SUPPORTS INCREASED FUNDING FOR VETERANS IN SENATE FLOOR SPEECH -- 03-12-2008 #3 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva031208-3.htm AKAKA AND SENATE LEADERSHIP PROMOTE STRONGER VETERANS' BUDGET -- 03-12-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva031208-2.htm AKAKA BLOGS ON HEARING FOR FAMILIES OF WOUNDED WARRIORS -- 03-12-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva031208-1.htm Burr Calls For Improved, Seamless Care For Veterans -- 03-11-2008 #4 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva031108-4.htm DEMOCRATS, VETERANS TO DISCUSS HOW BUDGET SERVES NATION'S SERVICE-MEMBERS -- 03-11-2008 #3 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva031108-3.htm FAMILIES OF WOUNDED IRAQ WAR VETERANS APPEAR BEFORE SENATE COMMITTEE -- 03-11-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva031108-2.htm AKAKA OP-ED CALLS ATTENTION TO NEED FOR GI BILL REVIEW -- 03-11-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva031108-1.htm Senate Veterans' Committee To Hold Hearing On Wounded Warrior Family Programs -- 03-10-2008 #2 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva031008-2.htm AKAKA INTRODUCES BILL ALLOWING VETERANS TO CHALLENGE VA DISABILITY RATING SCHEDULE -- 03-10-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva031008-1.htm AKAKA APPLAUDS DECLINING NUMBER OF HOMELESS VETERANS -- 03-07-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva030708-1.htm Senate, House Veterans' Committees To Hear Proposals From Veterans Organizations Groups to offer views on legislation and FY 2009 budget -- 03-06-2008 #3 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva030608-3.htm PARALYZED AND BLINDED VETERANS GROUPS OPPOSE PROPOSED CUTS TO VA RESEARCH -- 03-06-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva030608-2.htm VETERANS ORGANIZATIONS REJECT TWO-TIERED DISABILITY SYSTEM -- 03-06-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva030608-1.htm AKAKA, VFW AGREE AT JOINT HOUSE-SENATE HEARING - VETERANS' MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES MUST BE A TOP PRIORITY -- 03-05-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva030508-1.htm DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS UNDERSCORE VA HEALTH CARE FUNDING ISSUES IN JOINT HOUSE-SENATE HEARING -- 03-04-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva030408-1.htm FEINGOLD, AKAKA FIGHT FOR VETERAN HEALTH CARE -- 02-29-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva022908-1.htm STATEMENT ON RESIGNATION OF UNDER SECRETARY FOR BENEFITS FROM VA -- 02-28-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva022808-1.htm AKAKA HEARS EXPERT TESTIMONY ON PTSD AND VETERANS' DISABILITY COMPENSATION -- 02-27-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva022708-1.htm Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs Budget Views and Estimates for Veterans' Programs for Fiscal Year 2009 -- 02-22-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva022208-2.htm CHAIRMAN AKAKA AND MAJORITY MEMBERS OF VETERANS' AFFAIRS COMMITTEE PROVIDE BUDGET VIEWS AND ESTIMATES -- 02-22-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva022208-1.htm AKAKA URGES SUCCESSION PLAN FOR DOD-VA SENIOR OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE -- 02-20-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva022008-1.htm DEPARTMENT OF LABOR IMPLEMENTS AKAKA USERRA RECOMMENDATIONS -- 02-15-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva021508-2.htm VETERANS DIAGNOSED WITH PTSD ON ACTIVE DUTY NO LONGER REQUIRED TO PROVIDE FURTHER EVIDENCE OF PTSD -- 02-15-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva021508-1.htm AKAKA HOLDS HEARING ON VETERANS' FUNDING -- 02-13-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva021308-1.htm AKAKA COMMENTS ON MILD TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY SCREENING HIGHLIGHTED IN GAO REPORT -- 02-08-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva020808-2.htm AKAKA INTRODUCES COST-OF-LIVING-INCREASE FOR DISABLED VETERANS -- 02-08-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva020808-1.htm AKAKA RESPONDS TO REPORTS ABOUT FORT DRUM -- 02-07-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva020708-1.htm AKAKA DISAPPOINTED BY PROPOSED VETERANS' BUDGET -- 02-05-2008 #3 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva020508-3.htm AKAKA HOLDS HEARING ON VETERANS' REHABILITATION -- 02-05-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva020508-2.htm SENATORS CALL FOR IMPROVED COMPENSATION FOR VETERANS WITH TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY -- 02-05-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva020508-1.htm AKAKA PRAISES MAJOR INCREASE IN TRAVEL REIMBURSEMENT FOR DISABLED VETERANS -- 01-31-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva013108-1.htm AKAKA COMMENTS ON REPORT LINKING MILD TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY AND PTSD -- 01-30-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva013008-1.htm AKAKA APPLAUDS ENACTMENT OF DEFENSE BILL PROVISIONS FOR WOUNDED WARRIORS -- 01-29-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva012908-2.htm AKAKA APPALLED BY REPORT REVEALING DEADLY SUBSTANDARD CONDITIONS AT VA HOSPITAL -- 01-29-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva012908-1.htm AKAKA AND SANDERS CALL FOR MORE PTSD CENTER FUNDING -- 01-25-2008 #2 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva012508-2.htm AKAKA TROUBLED BY REPORT ON TROOPS' POST-DEPLOYMENT HEALTH REASSESSMENTS -- 01-25-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva012508-1.htm AKAKA CHAIRS HEARING ON COMPENSATION OF DISABLED VETERANS -- 01-24-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva012408-1.htm Senate VA Committee To Examine Disability Benefits Commission Recommendations -- 01-23-2008 #1 REPUBLICAN - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva012308-1.htm AKAKA APPLAUDS HISTORIC FUNDING INCREASE FOR VETERANS -- 01-22-2008 #1 DEMOCRATIC - SENATE COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS PRESS RELEASE http://www.vawatchdog.org/08/scva08/scva012208-1.htm