(BOSTON 9/24/2021) On Monday, September 24th, the Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs held a public hearing on legislation related to services for Veterans and their family members in the Commonwealth. Senator John Velis (D-Westfield), the Senate Chair of the committee, began the hearing by noting that several Gold Star Family Members would be testifying during the hearing on legislation that impacts them.
“Today we will be hearing from some of the most selfless and courageous individuals on our planet, Gold Star Family Members,” stated Senator Velis. “We will be beginning with their testimony, and I want to personally thank them for their sacrifice and for being with us here today.”
The family members testified in support of S2434/H3668, An Act increasing annuity for disabled Veterans and Gold Star families, which was filed by Senator Velis and Representative Daniel J Hunt. The bill would increase the annuity for disabled Veterans and Gold Star families from $2,000 to $3,000 and would repeal a statute that restricts surviving spouses from getting their annuity if they remarry.
Several Gold Star wives testified that the current statute restricting spouses from receiving their annuity if they remarry is cruel and unfair. They noted the pain their families have been through since losing their loved ones, and the challenges they face in trying to find happiness while honoring the memory of their loved ones. Remarrying does not negate the sacrifices they made, and should not diminish the services provided to them by the Commonwealth they stated.
“I will always be a Gold Star wife,” said Erin Vasselian, one of the participants who testified during the hearing.
Other Gold Star Family Members noted that the annuity they receive allows them to support their families and help their children continue their education. While they stated that the current amount is an enormous help, they stressed that they still face numerous financial challenges with the loss of their loved ones.
“This bill is absolutely a priority on our Committee’s agenda,” said Senator Velis after the hearing. “These families have made the ultimate sacrifice and it is on us —as a Commonwealth—to take care of them.”
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