A Letter from Senator Barbara Boxer

As a Californian who makes it a point to keep in touch with my Senators and Congressman on a regular basis, I'm always glad when I hear from one of them, even if it is simply a mass mailer.

Here's one I just got from Senator Boxer.

Dear Friend:

From 1999 to 2004, the number of patients receiving health care through the Veterans Administration increased from 4.3 million to 7.4 million. Unfortunately, the level of federal funding for veterans' health care has not been increased to meet the increased demand for care.

Too often, veterans’ health care funding does not reflect the real needs of veterans. Instead, providing for veterans’ health becomes part of the bigger budget process. Quite clearly, we need legislation that ensures adequate funding for the Veterans Administration that is based on patient needs and
patient enrollment.

I am proud to be a cosponsor of S. 331, or the Assured Funding for Veterans Health Care Act of 2005, that would help to solve this funding problem. This legislation would make federal funding for veterans’ health care available based on the number of veterans enrolled in health care through the Veterans
Administration, as well as the number of veterans receiving health care for the given fiscal year. By this method, we can assure that patient needs are met by making veterans’ health care an issue settled by demand, not political debate.

Our nation has asked a great deal of America’s veterans, and veterans have always answered that call. It is our responsibility to ensure that when they need medical care, it is available. If you have any questions about this matter, I encourage you to contact me.

Sincerely,

Barbara Boxer
United States Senator

The bill she references makes good sense to me. You can find the text of the bill itself here. If you agree, I suggest you contact your senators. Tell them it's a good way to support the troops and the veterans.