Pasco Reporter

Washington: House Speaker Mike Johnson has appointed Representative Gus Bilirakis as Veterans' Advisor to the Speaker. Bilirakis, who has a long history of championing legislation to help veterans and their families, served for 14 years on the House Veterans Affairs Committee. He has authored legislation signed into law to improve mental health options, strengthen homeless prevention programs, and boost educational benefits for veterans. Additionally, Bilirakis has worked to improve transition support for veterans returning to civilian life and ensure formal recognition of the damage caused by toxic exposure to veterans.

In response to his appointment, Congressman Bilirakis stated, "Throughout my tenure in Congress, I have made it my priority to act as the voice of the men and women who serve our nation. I'm grateful for this newest opportunity to strengthen that voice and will continue pushing to ensure veterans' issues remain at the forefront of the priorities we tackle this Congress."

Speaker Mike Johnson expressed his confidence in Bilirakis, saying, "Congressman Bilirakis is widely regarded as one of Congress' most effective members, and he has been a strong advocate in delivering real results on behalf of America's veterans. I am proud to have Gus continue serving as Special Advisor to the Speaker on Veterans' issues."

One of Congressman Bilirakis' current legislative efforts is to pass the Major Richard Star Act (MRSA), which would ensure that combat-wounded veterans who have been medically retired receive the retirement and disability pay they've earned. Presently, only military retirees with at least 20 years of service and a disability rating of 50 percent or higher are able to collect both benefits simultaneously. Bilirakis aims to rectify this injustice.

Bilirakis has also been recognized for his constituent service and has an active Veterans Advisory Board in his local district. This board will provide critical input that he will use to brief Speaker Mike Johnson and House leadership regularly in his role as Veterans' Advisor. Bilirakis highlighted several key issues that he intends to address, including delays in accessing community care, problems with benefit claims processing, and the negative impact of the housing market on efforts to prevent veteran homelessness. He also emphasized the need to continue working on suicide prevention among veterans.

With Bilirakis's appointment as Veterans' Advisor to the Speaker, the concerns and needs of veterans will have a dedicated advocate at the highest level of government. His experience and track record demonstrate his commitment to supporting those who have served our nation.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-named-veterans-advisor-speaker-johnson