If you have access to C-Span on television or online, you can watch S. 1963, the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2009, being debated on the Senate floor.   Title VIII of this bill is comprised of legislation proposed by NAVREF to update and clarify NPC authorities.  The NPC section was formerly in S. 252, but has been re-packaged in S. 1963 with other stalled bills pertaining to veterans.  For C-Span 2 coverage, go to http://www.c-span.org/Live-Video/C-SPAN2/ .

 

Debate is beginning now.  However, to accommodate obstacles that were preventing floor action on the bill, Senator Coburn has been given up to three hours for debate on an amendment he has proposed to S. 1963, followed by 30 minutes of debate on S. 1963 itself, divided between SVAC Chairman Daniel Akaka (D-HI) and Ranking Member Richard Burr (R-NC).  Depending on when you tune in, you are likely to see one of these three individuals at the podium though they may yield some of their time to other senators.

Questions or comments about this Update may be directed to: Email: navref@navref.org | Phone: 301-656-5005 | Fax: 301-656-5008