Helping caregiving families and women soldiers distinguishes a sweeping bill for vets (S1963) that passed the House, following thumbs up from the Senate. It will take effect six months after the president signs it into law which he is expected to do. Years of reports, including a story in today's New York Times, discuss hurdles families face attempting to help their relatives returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. A bill expanding services represents a step toward reducing some of those barriers, especially for women and people living in remote, rural areas, for more timely services. It recognizes that supports for caregivers is essential to helping vets suffering trauma and combat-related disabilities.
Senator Daniel Akaka (D-HI) spearheaded the drive as chair of the Senate's committee on veteran issues. His press release applauded passage of the bill, now on the way to the president for his signature.
"For too long, the families of wounded warriors across America have paid the cost of war without sufficient support from the government their loved ones risked all to serve."In addition to training caregivers, the bill provides a stipend to help defray the loss of wages or other personal expenses, and provides health care to family members.
An important aspect of the bill requires attention to the health issues of women veterans, including treatment for sexual trauma, which is reportedly on the rise.The bill is summarized in a pdf.
