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Commission member urges local activism on Richard Star(r) Act, says vote is being held up in Congress
Summary
A meeting participant urged the commission to press congressional offices to advance the Richard Star(r) Act, arguing the bill prevents disability reductions for veterans who earn income; the speaker described lobbying activity and criticized a Wisconsin senator for delaying a floor vote.
During announcements on June 15, a meeting participant urged the O'Fallon Veterans Commission and attendees to press congressional offices to move the Richard Star(r) Act to a floor vote.
The speaker described the legislation as preventing the reduction of disability benefits for wounded veterans who are working and said veterans groups nationwide have lobbied Congress for passage. "A disabled veteran who is disabled as a result of his service in the military should not have his disability reduced because he can sit at home behind a computer and make money," the speaker said, urging community members to contact elected officials.
The speaker said the measure has been pending and recounted direct lobbying efforts, including organizing demonstrations and seeking meetings with congressional staff. The speaker also accused a senator from Wisconsin of holding up a vote, though no specific senator or office responded at the meeting.
Commission members expressed support for the legislation and for advocacy; no formal resolution or motion was introduced at the June 15 meeting. Members suggested constituents contact their representatives to urge a vote. The commission’s discussion did not produce a formal policy action, leaving any organized advocacy to individual members and veteran organizations.
