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Rep. McCollum and Sec. Shinseki: We Must Continue to Provide and Protect Critical Resources for America’s Veterans

August 31, 2011

Contact: Maria Reppas, (202) 225-6631 / (202) 527-0149 maria.reppas@mail.house.gov

St. Paul, MN – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) issued the following statement, regarding Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki's trip to Minnesota. Today, Secretary Shinseki met with veterans at the Minnesota State Fair and spoke at the American Legion Convention.

"Today, Minnesota's veterans appreciated the opportunity to meet with Secretary Shinseki. Veterans voiced their concerns about several ongoing challenges they face when coming home from military service including high unemployment rates, access to quality mental health care, and support for homeless veterans.

"I agree with President Obama and Secretary Shinseki that high unemployment among veterans is a problem that must be solved. Yesterday, President Obama proposed the idea of 'reverse boot camp,' which prepares recent veterans for civilian jobs by translating their military skills into industry-accepted licenses and credentials. I commend the President and Secretary Shinseki on their efforts to help put our veterans back to work.

"Congress must work with the Obama administration and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to ensure that those who bravely served our nation receive the benefits they deserve."

Congresswoman Betty McCollum serves on the House Appropriations and Budget Committees.

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