June 27, 2013

Congresswoman Dina Titus today introduced the Veteran Spouses Equal Treatment Act. H.R. 2529 would amend the Department of Veterans Affairs’ definition of the term “spouse”, in Section 101 of title 38, United States Code, as “an individual of the opposite sex” to reflect the new State definition of a spouse.

Yesterday’s Supreme Court decision to strike down the Defense of Marriage Act effectively extends thousands of federal benefits to same-sex couples, including those provided by the VA. Titus’ bill would align the VA with the nation’s laws and extend eligibility of VA benefits to same-sex military spouses.   

“For far too long, DOMA denied legally married, same-sex couples access to federal benefits, including those provided by the VA. But with yesterday's decisions, the Supreme Court sent a clear message that all Americans, gay or straight, must be afforded equal protection under the law,” said Titus. “The Veteran Spouses Equal Treatment Act would align the VA with our nation’s laws and extend benefits to thousands of deserving military spouses. I’m proud to defend all those who have bravely served in our Armed Forces, as well as their families.”