How to support Veterans.
As we commemorate Veteran’s Day this week, we also recognize the ways we can continue supporting those who have sacrificed so much for our country. In 2022, I voted for the PACT Act, the most significant expansion of benefits and services for toxic-exposed Veterans in more than 30 years.
Current estimates show more than 5 million Veterans were exposed to toxic substances or radiation during their military service. For decades, this issue was ignored, despite the numerous health problems caused by exposure, including many types of cancers, cardiovascular, respiratory, and neurological disorders, and other chronic illnesses. Although the severity of the health issues can vary, many Veterans have faced debilitating conditions that require ongoing medical care and support, which can cause disability, reduced quality of life, and premature death.
The PACT Act helps remove a web of red tape Veterans previously experienced just to receive treatment and other benefits that they earned. Since the PACT Act’s enactment, 1.1 million claims have been submitted by Veterans. Nationally, 58.6% of the claims have been processed, 76.90% of the processed claims have been approved, and more than $2.4 billion of earned benefits have been awarded to Veterans and their survivors. In my district alone, the VA has received 1,780 claims under the PACT Act as of October 13.
Veteran’s Day is about more than honoring our Veterans with our words. It’s about keeping our promise to these courageous individuals by serving them long after they take off the uniform.
Thanks to Democrats and President Joe Biden, the PACT Act is ensuring our veterans have access to the lifesaving care they have earned. Veterans should visit www.VA.Gov/PACT to take advantage of all that the PACT Act has to offer, or contact my office.
Jobs Update!
Last Friday, a new employment report showed that job growth continued in October – the 33rd month of growth under President Biden – as the economy added 150,000 new jobs! Since President Biden came into office, the U.S. economy has gained nearly 14 million jobs, marking the fastest job growth in history.
It’s not just about more jobs, though – it’s about BETTER jobs. Americans deserve good-paying union jobs that allow families to build up wealth and experience upward mobility. That’s the American Dream – and thanks to President Biden, we’re on our way to making that dream a reality.
But we can’t let partisan bickering get in the way of that progress. After finally electing a House Speaker, House Republicans must now put forth a solution to prevent a government shutdown in 10 days, after the short-term continuing resolution I voted for expires. I stand ready and willing to work with my colleagues across the aisle to do what’s best for the American people – but we need all Members of Congress to put politics aside and work together.
Funding the government is essential to maintain necessary services like food assistance – including for nursing mothers and children – Medicare and Medicaid, Social Security, and more. Plus, countless Americans employed by the federal government stand to miss paychecks if Congress doesn’t pass all of our annual appropriations bills for Fiscal Year 2024, which began on October 1st. These bills were due then, but the current House majority still hasn’t turned in their homework. Instead, they’re wasting time on extremely partisan messaging bills that will never pass the Senate or be signed into law.
Too much is at stake. I’ll keep fighting for People Over Politics to do what’s best for my constituents.
Success Story of the Week:
"I was having considerable difficulty in obtaining a copy of my father’s Air Force Discharge Certificate (DD214). I had tried numerous times over the past eight months with no success. After contacting Rep. Carson’s office to ask for assistance, I had a copy of the certificate within two weeks! Amazing! Everyone I spoke to at Congressman Carson’s office was very friendly, helpful, and made me feel like my issue mattered!”
–District 7
Team Carson is Here to Serve You:
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.
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Your Friend,
André