Heller, Tester Fight to Expand Travel Options For Disabled Veterans
Senators introduce bill to let 100% disabled veterans fly aboard military aircraft
(Washington, D.C.) – Senators Dean Heller (R-Nev.) and Jon Tester (D-Mont.) are fighting to improve travel options for the nation’s 100 percent disabled veterans.
Under current law, retired service members can fly on military aircraft when there is extra space onboard. But 100 percent disabled veterans who don’t qualify for retired pay are ineligible for this benefit.
Heller and Tester introduced a bill that will give 100 percent disabled veterans the same flying rights as retired service members.
“Our nation’s disabled veterans live every day coping with the cost of freedom, and we owe a great deal of gratitude to these selfless patriots. By expanding travel options for our nation’s disabled veterans, we can help ensure they receive the benefits they earned and deserve,” Heller said.
“These veterans embody the definition of patriotism and sacrifice,” said Tester, Montana’s only member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee. “This bill is a common-sense way to honor their service and improve their quality of life by increasing their access to the benefits they have earned.”