O’Rourke proposes new ‘war tax’ to fund veteran health care

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Democratic presidential candidate Beto (BET'-oh) O'Rourke is pledging to end the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and help create a federal health care fund to cover the costs of caring for those who serve in future wars by taxing those who don't.

The former Texas congressman unveiled his proposal Monday before attending a veterans’ roundtable in Tampa, Florida, ahead of the first Democratic presidential debate in Miami on Wednesday.

The new health care fund would be paid for using a "war tax," ensuring Americans not serving share "some of the cost of going to war according to their means."

The proposal pledges to improve the Veterans Affairs health care system and provide immigrant veterans a "pathway to citizenship."

O’Rourke wants to expand “reverse boot camps” to better prepare veterans for life after the military.

More In Veterans Affairs

2 former leaders charged for handling of virus outbreak at veterans home

It’s believed to be the first criminal case in the country brought against nursing home officials for actions taken during the pandemic.

Atlanta man allegedly tried to sell 125 million nonexistent COVID-19 masks to VA for $750 million

An Atlanta man allegedly attempted to protective equipment to the VA for more than $750 million.

Former VA official sentenced for federal contract bribery scheme

Official told undercover agent he needed bribes, "so I can have my Christmas..."

Hacker group targeted law firms, released veterans’ stolen data related to PTSD claims

The posted information includes details from VA personal injury cases, pain diary entries, fee agreements and HIPPA consent forms. It is unclear, however, whether clients from the firms are aware some of their sensitive information has already posted to the web.

In Other News

Biden invokes Defense Production Act for formula shortage

President Joe Biden has invoked the Defense Production Act to speed production of infant formula and has authorized flights to import supply from overseas.

Air Force may allow another dash of ’stache

The decision isn't yet final, but may come as soon as Friday.

Junior service members being hit hard by inflation, senior enlisted leaders say

From food to child care to housing, inflation is hitting junior service members especially hard.

Meet the moms behind the Army’s new parenthood policies

Meet two soldier moms who discuss the sweeping changes benefiting new parents and others on this episode of The Spouse Angle podcast.

Navy’s top enlisted sailor denies telling George Washington crew to ‘lower your standards’

Despite no public proof that Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Russell Smith ever uttered such an edict, "lower your standards" has become an online rallying cry in recent weeks for those disillusioned with Navy life.

Load More