U.S. Senate to VOTE Tuesday on Filipino Veterans Equity Bill INQUIRER.net
April 18, 2008
On Tuesday April 22, the full Senate is expected to vote on Sen. Daniel Akaka's bill S. 1315 that includes equitable VA pension and health benefits for Filipino WWII veterans, according to Senate VA Committee staff who confirmed this historic development today.
After a nearly year-long stalemate, face-to-face lobbying with senators on Capitol Hill by ACFV veterans, their family members, Philippine Embassy officials, NaFFAA community leaders, NAFVE activists and allies have paid off.
The fate of the Equity bill will be decided after a "cloture" vote is called by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV). At least 60 Senators must vote in favor in limiting debate and prevent a filibuster on the floor. Then, an up and down votes will be made on amendments on the Akaka bill until the final version is passed.
Passage of our bill's provisions will depend on you and our allies.
Please e-mail TODAY AND CALL your senators Friday & Monday & Tuesday.
Urge them to VOTE for Sen. Akaka's bill S. 1315.
E-mail them at their Senate websites: www.senate.gov Their phone numbers are listed there.
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Dear Senator ______:
"I urge you to VOTE for the Filipino Veterans EQUITY benefits in the S. 1315 bill by introduced by Sen. Daniel AKAKA (D-HI) and Sen. Daniel INOUYE (D-HI) that was approved in the VA Committee in the Senate.
When made law, S. 1315 would restore the official U.S. recognition and provide desperately needed VA benefits to these elderly and poor Filipino veterans. They bravely fought and honorably served as U.S. soldiers in defending our flag and country in World War II.
They now deserve equitable VA benefits like their American comrades. As your constituent, I will appreciate a reply from your office.
Your Name: _________________ Address: ___________________
