E-Newsletter

Celebrating America’s Veterans

Land of the free, home of the brave. Without the service and sacrifice of our veterans, these words would not ring true.  Generations of men and women have fought with great valor to preserve and protect our nation.  I thank our veterans for their commitment to freedom and liberty.  Many take for granted the freedoms we hold so dear and forget that those freedoms are not free.  We will forever be indebted to those who have served. 

In keeping with our commitment to veterans, last week, the House passed the Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2011, which increases the rates of disability compensation for disabled veterans during these difficult economic times.  With over 1 million veterans currently unemployed, I was also proud to support the Veterans Opportunity to Work (VOW) Act of 2011, which would further ensure the government’s commitment to provide employment opportunities and training services to veterans. 

Currently, over 800,000 veterans reside in Virginia. Our region has an especially rich tradition of military service. As communities around the Ninth District hold celebrations honoring our veterans this week, I encourage you to take a moment to thank those who have served.  While reflecting on the service of our veterans, we must also remember those who continue to serve both at home and abroad.  As we approach Veterans Day on November 11, I know you join me in extending our prayers to our troops and their families. May God bless them and keep them safe. 

A Balanced Solution

Solving the nation’s budgetary problems should include balancing the budget. As a part of the debt ceiling deal, which was passed earlier this year, Congress is required to vote on a Balanced Budget Amendment by the end of the year. I am a co-sponsor of two proposed amendments, both introduced by Congressman Bob Goodlatte (R-VA), which would require that Congress not spend more than the federal government takes in.

Some in Washington don’t understand this approach. However, I know people in the Ninth District understand the importance of a balanced budget.  Business owners know that if you operate in the red, you won’t be in business for long.  Families know that there are real consequences to spending above and beyond their income each month.  The federal government needs to tighten its belt and stop piling debt on the backs of our children and grandchildren. While serving as Majority Leader in the Virginia House of Delegates, I saw how effective a Balanced Budget Amendment can be. While those who want to spend will still push for more spending, a Balanced Budget Amendment makes people think about it and would certainly prevent the government from racking up additional trillion dollar deficits.  I will keep you updated on this issue.

Reminder: Medicare Open Enrollment Is Underway

Medicare’s Annual Open Enrollment Period for Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D) is currently open. Ninth District senior citizens have until December 7th to make optional changes to their Medicare coverage for 2012. During this time, seniors can add, drop, or switch their coverage options. There are a number of choices available.  Seniors and family members may want to review the options to find the plan that best meets their needs.

The Medicare programs can often be very complex. More information on Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period can be found online at www.medicare.gov or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).  If you have additional questions about the Open Enrollment Period and or need assistance with a Medicare-related issue, my Ninth District staff is available to help.

Update: Supreme Court of Virginia Intermodal Ruling

Late last week, the Supreme Court of Virginia cleared the way for the construction of an intermodal facility in Montgomery County.  This facility will provide an important link to freight rail in our region. The intermodal terminal in Montgomery County will enhance the local economy and be a source of welcome relief for job creators, economic developers, and those seeking employment in the surrounding area. I am glad that the region can now move forward with this important project.

As always, if you have concerns or comments or wish to inquire about legislative issues, feel free to contact my offices. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov.