LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Nevada lawmakers unanimously backed a proposal to increase funding for programs that fight hunger among older adults and veterans.
A special committee on seniors, veterans and adults with special needs approved $330,000 in funding for anti-hunger programs.
Veterans urge lawmakers not to limit private help
During the committee meeting, veterans urged lawmakers not to shut them out of private help. They said companies like Veteran Benefits Guide help them navigate a confusing, slow federal system after years of denials. They argued they should be free to use those firms even if fees are involved.
Leo Garcia, an Air Force veteran who served during Desert Shield and Desert Storm, described his struggles getting help with his claims. Garcia said he spent more than 20 years trying to get assistance through traditional veteran service organizations, despite providing his medical records and DD-214.
“I’m a lifetime member of the VFW, went to them, and basically one of the commanders told me, you’re smart enough, Leo, figure it out yourself,” Garcia said. “I’m like, I need support. I need to get some guidance on how to get this done quickly and correctly. So that failed. I went to another veteran service organization. They failed me.”
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Garcia said he was comfortable paying fees for the assistance he ultimately received.
“I understood that there would be fees for their service,” Garcia said. “We were comfortable paying it because of the value and assistance we received.”
Garcia said veterans should have the freedom to choose who helps them.
“Veterans earn their benefits through service and sacrifice,” Garcia said. “They should also have the freedom of choice … who helps them pursue their benefits.”
Roger Loesch, a retired member of the U.S. Air Force who served 20 years, also spoke in support of the anti-hunger funding item.
“Anytime there’s legislation that affects veterans, it’s very important for us to be here and be heard,” Loesch said. “A lot of times the legislators aren’t veterans, so they don’t understand why it’s important to us.”
Concerns over cost
Some advocates warn private firms can take “millions out of veterans’ pockets,” but veterans who spoke during the meeting said they’re willing to pay if it means finally getting the benefits they earned.
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