Do you qualify for new veteran benefits?

Our veterans bravely served our country. Now, it’s our turn to serve them. 

Last year, I was proud to vote for the PACT Act, which expands benefits for millions of our nation’s veterans. From burn pit smoke in Iraq and Afghanistan to toxic exposure going back to the Cold War and Vietnam, countless veterans experienced service-related illnesses that previously were not covered under VA healthcare. But thanks to this bill, veterans who were exposed to burn pits and other toxics during their service can now receive millions of dollars in lifesaving benefits. That includes individuals suffering from brain cancer, pancreatic cancer, asthma that was diagnosed after service, chronic bronchitis, and breast cancer. 

The PACT Act is the largest expansion of veterans’ care and benefits in generations. Since August 10, 2022, the VA has delivered more than $1.6 billion in PACT-Act related benefits to veterans and their survivors, and more than 4 million veterans have received a toxic exposure screening. 

In the 7th district alone, it’s estimated that over 35,000 veterans could qualify for PACT Act benefits but have not yet applied. You can apply for PACT Act benefits anytime, but applying by August 9, 2023, can ensure you receive benefits going back to last year. Visit VA.gov/PACT to learn more and apply. 

My office is committed to making sure all veterans receive the benefits they deserve, and that any veteran experiencing homelessness is connected to the services they need to thrive. Last week, I was proud to see one of my team members, Heather Harvey, receive WRTV’s Jefferson Award for Multiplying Good for her work securing benefits for Indy’s veterans – over $5 million in the past few years. Constituent services and ensuring everyone in my district can access to the resources they need to thrive is my top priority, and I couldn’t be more proud of Heather for receiving this well-deserved award. Congratulations, Heather! 

Job & Resource Fair: 

It’s nearly here! On Tuesday, August 8th, I’ll once again host my annual Job & Resource Fair at Ivy Tech Culinary and Conference Center from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm.

July’s jobs report shows that 187,000 jobs were created last month, adding to a total of 13.4 MILLION jobs since President Biden took office. Our economic plan is working – and my job fair can help you take advantage of this growth. If you’re unemployed or underemployed and want to explore better opportunities, this Job & Resource Fair is for you.  With over 90 vendors available, you can find employment opportunities plus other resources like resume help, interview prep, and more. 

I won’t stop until everyone has access to good-paying, meaningful jobs. We’ve already invested historic amount of funding into infrastructure—keeping products American-made—small business support, clean energy, and more. These efforts will ensure we have a strong economy now and for generations to come.

Success Story of the Week: 

“I reached out to Congressman Carson’s office on Monday about an immigration concern and by Friday the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services contacted me to let me know that my status was changed and updated. Since then, I have received my work authorization and impending Green Card interview. Simply incredible! Thank you!”

–District 7 Constituent 

Need assistance navigating a federal agency, accessing benefits, or helping a community member recognize a milestone? We can help! Get in touch with our district office at 317-283-6516. 

For updates throughout the week, don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Your Friend,

André