Rep. Cole Votes to Ensure Veterans Receive the Benefits They Deserve

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Yesterday Representative Tom Cole voted for H.R. 1220, the Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2005, which passed the House by voice vote.

“We have an important commitment to America’s most honored heroes, our veterans. This cost-of-living adjustment helps make good on our promise to them. After serving our country, they deserve nothing less," Congressman Tom Cole said.

H.R. 1220 will provide a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) to disability compensation rates for veterans with service-connected disabilities equal to the adjustment provided under Social Security, which is calculated based upon changes in the Consumer Price Index. The specific amount will be determined later this year by the Social Security Administration and the Veterans Administration.

The Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2005 will provide a COLA to the rate of indemnity compensation for survivors of certain disabled veterans. The legislation also authorizes a 2-year project for improvement of business practices in the Veterans Health Administration and permanently authorizes six Parkinson’s Disease Research Educational and Clinical Centers.

This legislation must now pass in the Senate.

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