Team Infidel
Forum Spin Doctor
Boston Globe
May 18, 2008
WASHINGTON, D.C.--A Democratic congressman yesterday urged Republicans to "step up to the plate" to help veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Representative Xavier Becerra, Democrat of California, pointed to the updated GI Bill, which the House passed Thursday, as one way "a grateful nation can repay its heroes." The new GI Bill essentially would guarantee a full scholarship at any in-state public university, along with a monthly housing stipend, for anyone who serves in the military for at least three years. To pay for it, the Democratic plan would impose a surtax on individuals with incomes above $500,000. Senators in both parties balked at the increase in tax rates, but 32 Republicans joined Democrats on the 256-166 vote in favor of the bill.
--AP
May 18, 2008
WASHINGTON, D.C.--A Democratic congressman yesterday urged Republicans to "step up to the plate" to help veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Representative Xavier Becerra, Democrat of California, pointed to the updated GI Bill, which the House passed Thursday, as one way "a grateful nation can repay its heroes." The new GI Bill essentially would guarantee a full scholarship at any in-state public university, along with a monthly housing stipend, for anyone who serves in the military for at least three years. To pay for it, the Democratic plan would impose a surtax on individuals with incomes above $500,000. Senators in both parties balked at the increase in tax rates, but 32 Republicans joined Democrats on the 256-166 vote in favor of the bill.
--AP