ASSEMBLY MILITARY AND VETERANS' AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY RESOLUTION No. 258

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  JUNE 9, 2021

      The Assembly Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee reports favorably Assembly Resolution No. 258.

     This resolution urges the United States Congress to pass the “Major Richard Star Act” in order to address the injustice faced by combat-disabled veterans with less than 20 years of creditable service and allow them to receive a full military pension and disability compensation concurrently.

     Currently, a veteran with a combat-related disability and fewer than 20 years of service has their military pension reduced by the amount of disability compensation the veteran receives from the Department of Veterans Affairs.  A veteran with 20 years of creditable service and a disability rating of at least 50 percent is eligible to collect both a pension and disability compensation without reduction.  This is an injustice when retirement was not the choice of the veteran and the veteran and their family face additional health-related expenses due to the veteran’s service.  Veterans who sacrifice their health and their lives to serve this nation should not be penalized for their service and dedication.