Supporting Michigan veterans and their families

On Monday, I participated in the Jenison Memorial Day Parade in Ottawa County where hundreds of people as well as organizations from across the area came together to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. As I walked the route, I paused to say thank you to as many veterans as I could. Some veterans wore hats detailing their service, others wore sweatshirts representing their military branch, and a couple of gentlemen proudly put on their service uniforms which they had long since retired.

Following Memorial Day, I wanted to share with you some of the measures I have supported for our veterans and military families.

On May 13, I introduced the Veterans Suicide Prevention and Care Enhancement Act with Congressmen Lou Correa (D-CA) and Tim Walberg (R-MI). Too many veterans continue to struggle with invisible wounds after returning home, and they deserve access to the highest quality mental health care available, wherever they receive it. This bipartisan legislation will help connect veterans with providers who have completed evidence-based suicide prevention training and improve transparency for veterans and families seeking care.

Last week, the House passed the FY 2027 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs appropriations bill with a strong bipartisan vote of 400-15. This legislation fully funds veterans’ health care, supports military family housing, and invests in improvements at VA facilities across the country. Importantly, this bill includes $54.6 billion for the Toxic Exposures Fund to support veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances.

On May 21, I supported the Sharri Briley and Eric Edmundson Veterans Benefits Expansion Act. This legislation increases compensation for veterans who live with the most severe service-related injuries, veterans who passed away due to a service-connected injury or illness, and Gold Star Families for the first time in more than 20 years.

As your voice in Congress, I will continue support legislation that improves care for our veterans!

If you need assistance navigating a federal agency, please contact my office in Holland at (616) 251-6741 or in Portage at (269) 569-8595.