Friday, July 13, 2007
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Signs Legislation Supporting Missouri's Military Heroes
JEFFERSON CITY–Gov. Matt Blunt signed legislation that supports Missouri's military heroes who served during the War on Terror.
"Our military men and women put their lives on the line to ensure our freedom and security," Gov. Blunt said. "Missouri's military heroes need to know that we are protecting the jobs of returning veterans and truly appreciate their service to our state and nation."
"I think this bill is an important step and we are very pleased with the Governor's support for protecting Missouri veterans," Sen. Victor Callahan said. "When our nation is at war, it is even more important to protect our veterans and their families from employer's actions that could harm them here at home."
In 2006, Blunt signed legislation to enact additional protections for War on Terror Veterans to ensure that their jobs, wages and benefits were kept for them during the time they were called to serve our country. The legislation established a state fund to benefit War on Terror veterans who apply for unemployment assistance related to their time serving and to fund that program, the bill established state penalties for employers who violated the law. This year, Senate Bill 433, sponsored by Sen. Victor Callahan, increases the penalties for employers who fail to comply with the legislation from $25,000 to $35,000. This increase will serve as a further deterrent to employers who would violate the law and will support the program for those veterans who qualify and apply for the benefits available to them.
As governor, Blunt has advocated for veterans and their families. The budget Blunt signed this year increased money for Missouri's veterans' homes by $8.7 million. Increased funding will allow Missouri's veterans homes to go from 90 percent to 97 percent of capacity and lower the number of veterans on the waiting lists to enter the homes. Earlier this year the governor also signed legislation that established the Stolen Valor Act to put in law fit punishment for those who impersonate military heroes and that increases grants to fund Veterans Service Officers.
Gov. Blunt has witnessed firsthand the dedication and commitment that Missouri troops make everyday to protect and defend our freedom with visits to Iraq, Afghanistan and the Mexican Border. Blunt is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland and serves as a Lieutenant Commander in the Naval Reserves.