HARRISBURG, PA — State Representative Chris Pielli, D-Chester, has taken a decisive step in advocating for medically retired veterans by advancing House Resolution 234. The resolution, which calls on Congress to pass the Major Richard Star Act, has been unanimously approved by the state House Veterans Affairs & Emergency Preparedness Committee and now moves to the full House for consideration.
Addressing a Longstanding Veterans’ Issue
The Major Richard Star Act, if passed, would allow medically retired service members to concurrently receive military retirement pay and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability benefits. Under current rules, veterans with less than 20 years of service and a disability rating under 50% face a “dollar-for-dollar offset” that reduces their retirement pay by the amount of their disability benefits. This policy affects approximately 50,000 retired veterans, costing them an average of $1,900 a month.
“While going through countless surgeries and chemotherapy due to his lung cancer, Major Star learned that he would not concurrently receive his retirement and disability pay through the Department of Defense,” Rep. Pielli stated. “This is an injustice that requires attention. For these reasons and more, I’ve reintroduced House Resolution 234 to urge Congress to support and pass the Major Richard Star Act. The United States owes a debt to its former service members, one that should not be dismissed based on costs.”
Honoring Major Richard Star’s Legacy
The legislation is named in honor of Retired Army Maj. Richard Star, who passed away in 2021 after battling stage four lung cancer. Maj. Star’s legacy extends beyond his service in Iraq and Afghanistan, where he led efforts to clear roads of improvised explosive devices, saving countless lives. During the final months of his life, he passionately advocated for medically retired veterans to receive the benefits they earned.
His wife, Tonya, recalls this advocacy as his greatest mission. “Major Star’s goal was to ensure that veterans had equitable access to their retirement and disability benefits,” she said. The U.S. Senate Bill 1032, known as the Major Richard Star Act, stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to his fellow service members.
The Fight for Fairness
Rep. Pielli’s resolution underscores the urgency of this issue, highlighting the financial strain placed on thousands of disabled veterans under the current system. By removing this offset, the Major Richard Star Act would provide those who served with financial stability and the full measure of support they deserve.
With unanimous committee approval, H.R. 234 reflects widespread agreement on the need for action to correct this disparity. The resolution now awaits further debate and consideration in the full House.
State Rep. Pielli’s efforts represent a meaningful push for justice and equity for those who have sacrificed for their country. For many, the passage of the Major Richard Star Act would not only honor Maj. Star’s memory but also ensure fairness for service members who were forced to retire early due to injuries sustained in the line of duty.
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