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6/25/04
FY05 Defense Authorization bill passed by Senate includes language for military retirees
Vietnam Veterans of America – June 24
The Senate by a voice vote passed Senator Harry Reid-NV amendment to eliminate the 10-year phase-in period for retired military service-connected disabled veterans rated at 100%. These veterans have served 20 years in the military and are now receiving military retired pay and VA compensation.
The amendment was part of the final passage of S.2400 the FY05 Defense Authorization Act that passed the Senate last night by a vote of 97 yeas to 0.
This amendment will remove the current 10-year phase in for military retired service connected disabled veterans rated only at 100% who are receiving Concurrent Retirement and Disability Pay (CRDP), this amendment no way changes the current 10-year phase in passed last year by Congress for military retired disabled veterans rated at 50%. Senator Warner has promised that the Reid amendment ending CRDP phase-in for 100% military retired service-connected disabled veterans will be included in the Defense Authorization bill when it goes to the President.
The amendment if enacted into law will effect over 30,000 100% military retired service- connected disabled veterans and eliminate the 10-year phase in as passed last year by Congress. Military retired service connected disabled veterans who qualify for the new benefit will begin receiving payment in FY05.
VVA supports the Reid amendment and will provide more information on the exact breakdown of payment when it becomes available.
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