[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 42 (Thursday, April 10, 1997)]
[House]
[Page H1393]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              SECURING LONG-TERM HEALTH CARE FOR VETERANS

  (Mr. BOSWELL asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks and include extraneous 
material.)
  Mr. BOSWELL. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing legislation which 
when enacted will modify the treatment of certain benefits received by 
veterans who reside in State veterans homes and whose health care and 
treatment is paid for by the Medicaid Program. It is because of my deep 
concern for the stability of these veterans homes and for the long-term 
care of my fellow veterans that I introduce this legislation.
  The situation was first brought to my attention by Jack Dack, 
commandant of the Iowa Veteran's Home in Marshalltown, IA. I have 
personally toured the Marshalltown State veterans home. This facility 
is a source of pride to me and other Iowa veterans. The Marshalltown 
home provides an outstanding level of service for Iowa's veterans who 
have carried our Nation's flag and are in need of health services. 
Without this reform, and all of my colleagues should take note, the 
ability of 33 State veterans homes in 17 States will be placed in 
jeopardy.
  So I submit this legislation because of my commitment to maintaining 
the long-term health care to our Nation's veterans, and I urge my 
colleagues to cosponsor this important legislation designed to maintain 
our commitment to quality health care for our Nation's veterans.

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