Dear John,

Each year on Veterans Day, we honor and thank the brave men and women who have put their lives on the line to serve and protect our country.

Today, I commemorate the sacrifices made by our veterans, while recognizing there is still work to be done.

In Congress, I am leading efforts to ensure our veterans have the services and support needed to lead healthy, productive lives. 

Most recently, I joined my colleagues in passing the Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act. The Honoring Our PACT is a comprehensive legislative package to address the full range of issues impacting veterans exposed to toxic chemicals and provide access to benefits and healthcare through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), making healthcare available to more than 3.5 million veterans. This legislation includes my bill, the Palomares Veterans Act, which would remove barriers to benefits and compensation for veterans who responded to the 1996 nuclear accident in Palomares, Spain. This legislation was signed into law by President Biden on August 10, 2022.

Legislation I have led to increase benefits for surviving spouses and to increase mental health care at the Department of Veterans Affairs has been signed into law and remains a priority for me. Additionally, I have cosponsored legislation to reduce veteran unemployment and homelessness, increase veteran pensions, and ensure female veterans have access to necessary health services through the Department of Veterans Affairs. As your Congresswoman, I remain committed to working to ensure our veterans, active-duty service members and families are supported.

Earlier this month, I joined Secretary Denis McDonough of the Department of Veterans Affairs for a visit of the VA Connecticut HealthCare System in West Haven, CT. The VA Connecticut Healthcare System provides supports to 10 locations across the state. 

If you are a veteran, or if you know any veterans who need assistance accessing benefits, receiving awards, or dealing with the Department of Veterans Affairs, please contact my district office at (860) 223-8412. Our Veterans Liaison is dedicated to serving the veterans of the Fifth District and would be honored to help. 

 To all the veterans who reside in the Fifth District: thank you for your service. I am honored to represent you in Congress.

Jahana Hayes

Member of Congress         

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