[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 48 (Thursday, March 19, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E726]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        GENERATIONS INVIGORATING VOLUNTEERISM AND EDUCATION ACT

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                               speech of

                           HON. BEN RAY LUJAN

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 18, 2009

       The House in Committee of the Whole House on the State of 
     the Union had under consideration the bill (H.R. 1388) to 
     reauthorize and reform the national service laws:

  Mr. LUJAN. Mr. Chair, I rise in support of the GIVE Act and the 
amendment offered by Congressman Teague of New Mexico and Congressman 
Klein of Florida. This is a great example of furthering our commitment 
to America's veterans, and I commend Congressman Klein and my fellow 
New Mexican, Congressman Teague, for leading the effort to ensure our 
veterans have access to resources and programs that will benefit them.
  During times of crisis and economic hardship, Americans have always 
joined together to overcome obstacles. The GIVE Act will provide 
Americans with the tools to get our country back on track by working in 
their communities. Americans of all ages have always responded to the 
call of service in times of crisis, and this legislation helps 
Americans to respond to this call by creating new opportunities to 
serve. This amendment ensures that those who are no strangers to 
service to our nation--our veterans--are included in this bill.
  I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this amendment to put 
veterans back to work and train them for civilian careers. This 
addition would provide support to veterans in their pursuit of 
education and professional careers, and assist disabled and unemployed 
veterans with transportation needs. This is an important step in moving 
forward with constructive legislation that gives due respect to those 
who have given so much. I thank Congressman Teague and Congressman 
Klein for their efforts on behalf of our nation's veterans and urge an 
aye vote.

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