National Federation of the Blind Applauds Introduction of Bill to Benefit Disabled Veterans

Urges Senate to Act Swiftly on Inclusion of Disabled Veterans in Space Available Program

BALTIMORE, Feb. 19, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Federation of the Blind, the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind people in the United States, today applauded the introduction of S. 346 by Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) and Senator Dean Heller (R-NV).  If passed, the bill will reverse the exclusion of 100 percent service-disabled veterans from the military's Space Available program, which allows active-duty military, Red Cross employees, and retired members of the armed services to travel on military aircraft if there is space available.  A companion bill, H.R. 164, has been introduced in the United States House of Representatives by Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL).

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"These veterans embody the definition of patriotism and sacrifice," said Senator Tester. "This bill is a common-sense way to honor their service and improve their quality of life by increasing their access to the benefits they have earned."

Dr. Marc Maurer, president of the National Federation of the Blind, said: "We thank Senators Tester and Heller for taking action to reverse the exclusion from the Space Available program of veterans who have acquired disabilities while honorably serving their country.  These brave men and women are entitled to the benefits that they would have received had they been able to complete their service and retire from the Armed Forces.  We urge the Senate to act swiftly to advance this important legislation."

"Extending space-available military air travel to 100 percent service-connected disabled veterans would send the message that our country truly honors their service and sacrifice, something they richly deserve," said DAV National Commander Larry A. Polzin .  "The DAV thanks Senators Tester and Heller for introducing this important legislation."

The National Federation of the Blind needs your support to ensure that blind children get an equal education, to connect blind veterans with the training and services they need, and to help seniors who are losing vision continue to live independent and fulfilling lives. To make a donation, please go to www.nfb.org.

About the National Federation of the Blind

The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) is the oldest, largest, and most influential nationwide membership organization of blind people in the United States.  Founded in 1940, the NFB advocates for the civil rights and equality of blind Americans, and develops innovative education, technology, and training programs to provide the blind and those who are losing vision with the tools they need to become independent and successful.  We need your support.  To make a donation, please go to www.nfb.org.

SOURCE National Federation of the Blind

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