Disabled veterans currently face a reduction in their retirement pay equal to the amount they receive in service-connected disability compensation, a practice sometimes called the “Wounded Veteran Tax.” The Major Richard Star Act, introduced in both chambers of Congress, seeks to address this issue by allowing qualified veterans to receive full retirement and disability benefits at the same time.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union), which represents many members who have served in the U.S. military, has voiced support for the legislation. The bill is also backed by several national veterans organizations such as Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), The American Legion, and Disabled American Veterans (DAV).
According to IAM Union International President Brian Bryant: “On behalf of the 600,000 active and retired members of IAM Union, I want to thank the bipartisan group of U.S. Senators and members of the U.S. House of Representatives for supporting this very important piece of legislation that is intended to improve the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for this country,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “The IAM is a diverse labor union with a very significant number of veterans in our membership. We will always fight for the rights of our veterans. The House and the Senate must pass the Major Richard Star Act to end the unjust offset that penalizes combat-injured veterans by denying them the full benefits they have earned.”
Supporters are urging individuals to contact their legislators about passing this measure.
