U.S. Rep. Fudge Call on Senate Colleagues to Pass Robust Jobs Bills

Washington DC – On the heels of a difficult fight in the Senate to overcome Republican objections to extending unemployment benefits for millions of struggling Americans, U.S. Representatives Marcia L. Fudge (D-OH11), Dennis Kucinich (D-OH10), and Marcy Kaptur (D-OH9) joined with the group, Americans United For Change in a press conference call today. They urged their Senate colleagues to now get to the business of passing a robust jobs bill that helps ease the burden on states facing difficult budget shortfalls. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, if Congress does not extend provisions of last year’s Recovery Act, the economy will lose 900,000 public-and private-sector jobs.

Representative Marcia L. Fudge (D-OH11): “Ending cloture on the unemployment extension in the Senate was pivotal, not only for Northeast Ohioans struggling to find work, but for all Americans who expect their elected officials to act in good faith and address our jobs crisis. Soon these Senators will have a chance to prove they really care about the deficit – and not about scoring cheap political points on the backs of the unemployed. The Senate is poised to consider a jobs bill that will keep teachers in their classrooms, police on the beat and nurses on the job. These provisions are fully paid for by closing tax loopholes that benefit only a select few Americans. Of course, creating and maintaining jobs and rebuilding the tax base is the best way to reduce our deficit. As such, there is no reason any Senator should stand in the way of this job-creation legislation. I challenge the Senate to offer their support, or at least get out of the way.”

Congresswoman Fudge Applauds Reforms to Care for Vets with PTSD

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) welcomes the Veterans Administration (VA) plan to improve care for veterans suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The new reforms make it easier for veterans, including those denied benefits in the past, to receive their earned benefits.

“Nearly one in five veterans suffer from PTSD. Many men and women were tripped up by red tape when trying to access care. That’s a shame, but it won’t continue on the Democrats’ watch,” said Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge. “Now, Northeast Ohio vets can go to the Wade Park PTSD VA Medical Center in Cleveland, receive a diagnosis, and immediately receive the disability compensation they deserve.”

Previously, veterans had to undergo lengthy investigations while applying for PTSD disability benefits. The VA required extensive documentation of the specific cause of PTSD along with a doctor’s diagnosis. Unable to document their experiences, thousands of veterans were denied PTSD benefits. The proposed reforms simplify the process, requiring only a VA doctor’s diagnosis for veterans who served in a combat zone.

“Our soldiers sacrifice immensely for our freedom, and it’s our duty to ensure they’re supported when they return home,” said Congresswoman Fudge. “I’m proud that, finally, our veterans suffering from PTSD will receive the necessary care, with no hassles or red tape.”

Congressman John Hall (NY-19), Chairman of the House Veteran’s Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs, spearheaded this effort alongside President Obama. The Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America strongly supports the new rule.

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