RIDGEWOOD, NJ — U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) stopped by the American Legion Post 53 in Ridgewood to thank local veterans for their service and to discuss ongoing work to ensure North Jerseys’ veterans have access to the care, resources, and benefits they‘ve earned and deserve.

“One of my most important jobs as a member of Congress is to have the backs of those who have our backs: our law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, our men and women currently serving in active duty, and, especially, our veterans,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “Our veterans represent the best our nation has to offer — the ones who have sacrificed everything for the freedoms we cherish today. For that and so much more, I am grateful for the opportunity to fight for the care and resources they’ve earned.”

Gottheimer was joined by Commander Bob Paoli, Vice Commander Jack Marcasciano, and members of American Legion Post 53.

Gottheimer-backed bipartisan legislation to support North Jersey veterans, which recently passed the House, includes:

The Guard and Reserve GI Bill Parity Act (H.R.1836) — to help expand access to G.I. benefits for members of our military who serve in the National Guard and Reserve. Currently, the National Guard and Reserve, who often serve side-by-side with their active duty counterparts, do not receive the same access to vital G.I. Bill benefits.

The Protecting Moms Who Served Act (S. 796) — to require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to implement a maternity care coordination program that coordinates, supports, and trains community maternity care providers (i.e., non-VA maternity care providers) to serve the unique needs of pregnant and postpartum veterans, with an emphasis on the unique mental health needs of those who have served in the armed forces.

The Student Veterans Counseling Centers Eligibility Act (H.R. 4233) — to expand access to mental health services for veterans utilizing their G.I. Benefits at colleges and universities through established Vet Centers.

The Colonel John M. McHugh Tuition Fairness for Survivors Act (S. 1095) — to require public colleges and universities to provide in-state tuition to the families of service members who die or become disabled, or otherwise cannot receive VA education benefits.