Dear John,

Each Memorial Day, we are presented with the opportunity to honor the military personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the United States Armed Forces. During this time, we reflect on the freedoms we cherish and the strength of the families these heroes have left behind.

On Memorial Day, we affirm servicemembers, veterans, and their families that they are not alone.

 Service to veterans and their families has remained a top priority throughout my time in Congress. 

In February, I introduced the Caring for Survivors Act, which would expand eligibility and increase payments for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) benefits for survivors. Currently, the families of servicemembers who died from a service-connected condition receive DIC benefits monthly. The Caring for Survivors Act would increase these benefits by $300.

Honoring veterans means being there for their families too. The outdated policies surrounding VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation have created unbearable stress for surviving families. My legislation reduces barriers to federal support, and lessens the financial burden placed on veterans, servicemembers, and their families.

Additionally, I joined my colleagues in passing the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act. Signed into law by President Biden, the PACT Act represents the most significant expansion of benefits and services for toxic-exposed veterans in more than 30 years, making healthcare available to more than 3.5 million veterans.

We are forever indebted to the men and women of our Armed Services for their bravery and courage. I will continue to honor and remember our servicemembers, veterans, and their families, and work to ensure military families have access to the support and resources they have earned. 

 If you are the surviving family of a service member who needs assistance accessing benefits, receiving awards, or navigating the VA, please contact my office at (860) 223-8412.

Jahana Hayes

Member of Congress