What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
May 21, 2024 Recap
President Biden signed the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act into law in August 2022. This bipartisan legislation significantly expands benefits for veterans exposed to toxic substances. Named after Sergeant Heath Robinson, who died from lung cancer, the Act aims to deliver benefits to veterans impacted by toxic exposures.
Key highlights:
1 Million Claims Approved: Over 888,000 veterans and survivors across all states and territories receive new service-connected disability benefits.
Support for Veterans: The Act ensures veterans get the care they deserve, eliminating barriers to establishing connections between service and disabilities from environmental exposures.
Rapid Processing: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has processed claims at a record pace and is delivering health care to more veterans than ever.
Outreach and Awareness: Extensive outreach has led to a record number of claim submissions, and the VA has delivered over $5.7 billion in PACT Act benefits.
Focus on Cancer and Terminal Illness: Prioritizing veterans with cancer, the VA has delivered nearly $637 million in benefits to these individuals.
Homelessness and Jobs: Efforts to end veteran homelessness and secure jobs for veterans are ongoing, with significant progress made in housing and employment support.
Mental Health and Caregivers: Actions to remove barriers to mental health care and support for veterans' caregivers are in place, including no-cost emergency health care for veterans in crisis.
For more information, veterans can visit www.va.gov/PACT or their local VA hospital to check their eligibility for PACT Act benefits and services.
During a press gaggle aboard Air Force One en route to Merrimack, New Hampshire, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre provided an overview of President Biden's upcoming activities and addressed various issues. President Biden, accompanied by Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough and Senators Shaheen and Hassan, will discuss support for veterans, emphasizing the landmark bipartisan PACT Act signed in August. This act represents a significant expansion of healthcare benefits for toxic-exposed veterans, with over 1 million claims granted, benefiting more than 888,000 veterans and survivors across the U.S.
Jean-Pierre also addressed concerns about Israeli officials seizing equipment from the Associated Press in Gaza, reiterating the administration's commitment to press freedom and stating that they are investigating the incident. Regarding the proposed legislation by House Republicans to impose sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) following its controversial arrest warrants against Israeli leaders, she reiterated President Biden's condemnation of the ICC's actions and mentioned ongoing discussions with lawmakers.
When asked about a video posted by former President Trump that referenced the "unified Reich," Jean-Pierre condemned the promotion of content associated with Nazi Germany, calling it abhorrent and un-American, and indicated that President Biden would address the issue later. On replacing the FDIC Chair, Jean-Pierre stated that the administration seeks a new nominee committed to decency, integrity, and consumer protection.
Jean-Pierre provided a summary of National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan’s recent trip to the Middle East, which included meetings in Saudi Arabia and Israel focused on regional integration, increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza, and efforts to secure the release of hostages and defeat Hamas. She noted that while the amount of aid entering Gaza has increased, it remains insufficient, and the administration is pressing Israel to boost assistance further.
Regarding the New Hampshire congressional race, Jean-Pierre declined to comment on Maggie Goodlander's campaign due to Hatch Act restrictions. She also highlighted significant progress in U.S.-Saudi negotiations on regional integration without providing a specific timeline for an agreement.
Lastly, Jean-Pierre previewed the upcoming state visit by the Kenyan leader, marking the 60th anniversary of U.S.-Kenya relations. This visit underscores the two nations' strategic partnership on security, trade, investment, health, and climate issues. The First Lady will greet the Kenyan leader at Andrews Air Force Base, reflecting the ongoing diplomatic relations. Jean-Pierre deferred questions about state dinner guests to the First Lady’s Office.
President Biden proclaimed May 22, 2024, as National Maritime Day to honor the service of merchant mariners. These mariners have historically supported national freedom, responded to disasters, and bolstered the economy through trade.
The administration commits to supporting mariners by enforcing the Jones Act, investing in port infrastructure, and proposing $191 million for the United States Merchant Marine Academy. It also notes efforts to prevent sexual assault and harassment in the industry.
The day commemorates the first transoceanic voyage by the S.S. Savannah in 1819 and honors fallen mariners. Americans are called to observe the day with appropriate activities, and American-flagged ships are requested to dress ship.
Vice President Harris met with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada during the 2024 SEIU International Convention in Philadelphia. They discussed U.S.-Canada cooperation on various issues, including the humanitarian situation in Haiti and the importance of the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support mission. They also committed to maintaining a peaceful, stable, and cooperative Arctic. Additionally, they reaffirmed their support for Ukraine in defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity against Russian aggression.
In her remarks at the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Quadrennial Convention, Vice President Kamala Harris expressed her gratitude and support for the union and its members. She emphasized the administration's commitment to workers' rights, healthcare, economic opportunity, and justice for all Americans.
Vice President Harris highlighted the SEIU's historical contributions to civil rights and labor movements, including its role in passing the Affordable Care Act and advocating for higher minimum wages. She praised the union's efforts to protect vulnerable communities and ensure equitable healthcare access.
The Vice President detailed the administration's achievements, such as capping insulin costs for seniors, raising the minimum wage for federal contractors, and canceling substantial amounts of student loan debt. She emphasized ongoing efforts to fight economic inequality, including addressing medical debt and promoting fair pay for care workers.
Vice President Harris condemned extremist rhetoric and stressed the importance of defending democracy and individual freedoms. She called on SEIU members to continue organizing and mobilizing to achieve goals like paid family leave, affordable childcare, and a pathway to citizenship for DREAMers.
In closing, The Vice President rallied the audience with a call to action, affirming that united efforts lead to victory in advancing workers' rights and upholding the promise of America.
President Biden spoke at the Westwood Park YMCA in Nashua, NH, about the PACT Act, which aims to support veterans exposed to toxic substances during service. He acknowledged Sergeant's service and expressed gratitude to Senators Maggie Hassan, Jeanne Shaheen, Congresswoman Annie Kuster, and Secretary McDonough for their contributions to veteran support.
President Biden emphasized America's sacred obligation to prepare and care for those sent into harm's way, highlighting the PACT Act's role in fulfilling this promise. He announced that the VA had processed its one-millionth PACT Act claim, granting significant benefits to veterans and their families.
The President recounted the personal significance of the Act, as his son Beau Biden was affected by toxic exposure during his service. He criticized the past delays in addressing health issues from Agent Orange exposure and praised the PACT Act for expediting care and benefits for today's veterans.
President Biden highlighted the Act's provisions, including expanded eligibility for VA healthcare, regular toxic-exposure screenings, and immediate access to disability benefits. He mentioned investments in new facilities, research, and healthcare workers and committed to upgrading VA facilities in New Hampshire.
He shared the story of Lisa Clark, an Air Force veteran who received benefits thanks to the PACT Act after her husband's death from Agent Orange-related cancer. Biden called on everyone to spread the word about the Act and ensure veterans receive the care they deserve.
In closing, President Biden emphasized the importance of supporting veterans and their families. He noted the significant legislative progress made under his administration to address veteran homelessness, mental health, and economic opportunities for military spouses. He reaffirmed America's commitment to its veterans, stating that when united, nothing is beyond the nation's capacity.
Vice President Harris talks with Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during the 2024 SEIU International Convention in Philadelphia, PA
