The U.S. House voted 392–18 on November 12 to let eligible combat-injured military retirees receive their full military retirement pay and veterans disability compensation at the same time. Rep. Joe Courtney, who represents Eastern Connecticut, voted for the bill and signed the petition that brought it to the floor.
The Major Richard Star Act, H.R. 2102, addresses a reduction in military retirement pay for veterans who were medically retired because of combat-related disabilities. The bill would allow eligible retirees to receive both their full military retirement pay and their Department of Veterans Affairs disability compensation.
The bill now goes to the Senate. Thursday’s House vote does not change anyone’s benefits.