Southwest Allegheny News

The Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee in Harrisburg has passed a bill aimed at increasing pensions for disabled veterans. Senate Bill 534, brought forth by Senators Judy Ward and Devlin Robinson, seeks to raise the pension payments for the Blind Veterans Pension Program and the Amputee and Paralyzed Veterans Pension Program from $150 to $180 per month. These programs aid veterans who have suffered service-related injuries leading to blindness, paralysis, or the loss of two or more limbs.

"For more than two decades, these critical pension programs have remained unchanged while the cost of living has continued to rise," stated Sen. Ward. "This modest increase is the least we can do to support the men and women who have sacrificed so much in service to our nation."

Currently, eligible veterans in Pennsylvania receive $150 monthly, a figure that has not been adjusted since 1999. If the bill is enacted, it would impact nearly 2,500 veterans across the state, according to Ward and Robinson.

"It is past time for the legislature to take action and put more money back in the pockets of our heroes," Sen. Robinson commented. "I am proud to co-sponsor this legislation with Sen. Judy Ward to continue advocating for fellow Pennsylvania veterans."

As of late November 2024, the Blind Veterans Pension Program supports 98 individuals, while the Amputee and Paralyzed Veterans Pension Program aids 2,345 people. The proposed bill is now set to be reviewed by the full Senate.

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