U.S. Senator Jerry Moran of Kansas addressed the Senate on March 3, 2026, emphasizing the need for Congress to advance the Major Richard Star Act. The legislation would allow veterans with service-connected disabilities to receive both full military retirement pay and disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
“No veteran in my mind should have their retirement, that they earned, decreased because they also were eligible for disability compensation due to an injury they sustained during their military service,” said Sen. Moran. “While the Major Richard Star Act is not within the jurisdiction of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, I want to make clear that I will continue to work with my colleagues in a bicameral and bipartisan way to make certain we find a path forward for the passage of this legislation.”
Senator Moran noted his status as an original cosponsor: “I am an original cosponsor of this legislation to make certain combat-injured veterans receive their full benefits. They upheld their oath. They fulfilled their duty. The question before us is whether we will fulfill ours. I am committed to continue working closely with my colleagues on the Armed Services Committee and with Senators from both sides of the aisle to find a responsible path forward and a solution that ultimately leads to the passage of the Major Richard Star Act in the Senate, the House of Representatives and eventually, to the President’s desk to become law.”
Moran is one of 42 original cosponsors supporting this measure. He led a hearing at the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs where he discussed these priorities with representatives from Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), reinforcing his commitment.
The Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee plays a significant role in improving access to VA health care and supporting veterans as they transition back into civilian life across programs it oversees nationwide. The committee maintains offices within the U.S. Capitol complex and collaborates closely with entities such as the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Senator Moran serves as chairman alongside ranking member Richard Blumenthal, overseeing benefits, health care initiatives, and related support programs for veterans throughout all United States jurisdictions.
