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State Representative Joe Atkins
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-4192
For more information contact: Christina Gosack 651-296-5524
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Rep. Atkins Thanks Our Soldiers and Veterans
In the final hours of the 2006 Legislative Session, the state legislature passed new laws to assist Minnesota veterans and active duty soldiers and their families. State Rep. Joe Atkins of Inver Grove Heights took the opportunity of Memorial Day to explain the new provisions and to thank our military and veterans for the service they provide.
"Memorial Day provides a chance to remember the men and women who honorably serve our country in the military," said Atkins. "It's up to all of us to thank them for their service. This year at the legislature we passed provisions to support the families of deployed soldiers, help newly returned veterans transition back to everyday life, and offer quality care for our aging veterans who've served our country in years past. "
Rep. Atkins co-authored successful bi-partisan legislation to ensure that the families of deployed soldiers can get unpaid leave from their jobs to attend a military sendoff or homecoming ceremony. This spring many Minnesota families traveled to Camp Shelby, Mississippi to see off the 2,600 Minnesota National Guard soldiers who were deployed to Iraq. Atkins' bill also expands the State Soldiers Assistance Program, which provides a safety net to Minnesota veterans and their families facing hardship.
Atkins also highlighted important provisions in the bill that ease the transition for new veterans returning to college campuses. "This year we authorized the creation of offices on our college campuses specifically for veterans," Atkins explained. "So many of our new veterans go back to school, we want to make sure know what state, federal, and private resources are available to them."
Finally, Atkins praised legislation passed this year to ensure quality long-term care at the five state Veteran's Homes. Atkins also noted that as a result of recent demonstrations at military funerals, it is now a misdemeanor to protest within 500 feet of a gravesite, funeral facility or memorial service.
"Minnesotans put a high value on military service," said Atkins. "While some states have struggled to meet their recruitment goals, the Minnesota National Guard continues to meet or exceed its goals. Let's continue to remember and support the soldiers and military families who have made countless sacrifices for their country."
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- Rep. Atkins, Sen. Lourey Introduce Health Insurance Exchange Legislation - (Posted: Jan 9 2013 3:44PM)
- Rep. Atkins – Statement on Deal to End NHL Lockout - (Posted: Jan 7 2013 2:05PM)
- Rep. Atkins to Hold Minnesota House Hearing on Economic Impact of Hockey Lockout - (Posted: Jan 2 2013 3:20PM)
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