AMO Currents - House approves Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act

AMO Currents - Posted: May 12, 2009

House approves Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act

On May 12, the House of Representatives approved legislation to honor and provide a monthly benefit to merchant marine veterans of World War II. The Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act (H.R. 23) would if enacted into law provide a monthly tax-free benefit of $1,000 to certain individuals who served as documented members of the U.S. merchant marine during World War II.

This measure would “finally give the merchant mariners of WWII the belated compensation they so deserve,” said Rep. Bob Filner (D-CA), speaking before the House today. “Congress has a responsibility to correct the wrongs of the past.” Rep. Filner is the sponsor of the legislation and chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee.

The Senate has not yet voted on this legislation. S. 663, the Senate companion bill, has 23 cosponsors. On April 29, the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee held a hearing on pending legislation, including S. 663, but has yet to schedule a mark-up of the bill.