GI Bill Passes

[The Blue Flower]

Just into my mailbox from IAVA:

You did it. Just a few minutes ago, the House of Representatives passed the new GI Bill by a vote of 256-166, as an attachment to the emergency supplemental. Click here to view the full list of who voted for it and who voted against it.

Earlier this week, we told you that the new GI Bill was facing opposition from a small group of Representatives in the House, who were threatening the bill despite its deep bi-partisan support.

We asked for your help, and you stepped up to the plate. Thousands of you took action by calling your Representatives, signing the petition at www.GIBill2008.org, and spreading the word to your friends and neighbors. Today, your dedication paid off and together, we made history.

There's no question that your efforts had an impact. Referring specifically to the group of Representatives that were standing in the way of the bill, known as the Blue Dogs, the Politico, a Washington-insider newspaper, said that "there had been erosion among Blue Dogs in the face of pressure from veterans groups."1 The leadership you demonstrated in fighting for this bill shows that IAVA is a force to be reckoned with.

The new GI Bill has widespread support among Democrats, Republicans, and all of the major veterans organizations. But the legislative process is a long one, and it's your dedication that keeps it going during these crucial stages.


Next week, the Senate will have to vote on the bill as well. After that, it will go to the President's desk for his signature.

We'll keep you updated via email, but for the latest news, just visit www.GIBill2008.org.

Thank you again for standing with us. The support we're getting in this fight has been truly inspiring.

Sincerely,

Patrick Campbell
Iraq Veteran
Legislative Director
Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America


1. Politico: http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0508/10331.html

[Disturbed]

1. If the Senate passes this will Busholini veto it?

I suspect that he will do so.

He gave up golf so that is enough support for the Troops.

[Breeze54]

2. Yeah!! WOOT!!!

:applause: :applause:

:woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo: :woohoo:

:toast:

Thanks for posting this, Defenestrate!! :D

:kick: & Recommended!!

[babylonsister]

3. Rec'd! And Dems derailed McCain's bill in the Senate...

Dems derail McCain bill to boost veterans' college aid

By ANNE FLAHERTY – 1 day ago

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Democrats on Wednesday blocked a bill by John McCain that would have increased college aid for military veterans because they said it didn't go far enough and would serve only as political cover for the GOP presidential candidate.

Republicans offered McCain's bill as an amendment to legislation that would give police officers, firefighters and other first responders the right to unionize. The Senate voted 55-42 to kill the amendment.

McCain, R-Ariz., was on the campaign trail and not present for the vote.

"This vote is a message to Bush-McCain Republicans that the U.S. Senate will not stand for political games at the expense of our nation's first responders and veterans," said Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev.

more...

http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5jvWovlqUaqkZ_IuMvNikChKnb0uwD90LLFIO0