Rep. Mike Flood, representing Nebraska, is facing increasing pressure to cosponsor critical legislation aimed at supporting combat-injured veterans. Advocates point to his previous decision to cosponsor H.R. 82, the Social Security Fairness Act, on February 6, 2024. This bill aims to eliminate a pay offset affecting approximately 2,800,000 disabled workers across the United States, including an estimated 6,437 voters in Flood’s district.
The urgency of this matter arises from the ongoing struggles of 54,000 combat-injured veterans, including 246 in Nebraska, who continue to face financial penalties due to a legislative oversight dating back to 2004. This oversight removed disability pay offsets for many military retirees but failed to address those who are severely wounded and mustered out of service.
Advocacy for the Maj. Richard Star Act
The proposed legislation, known as the Maj. Richard Star Act (H.R. 2102), seeks to rectify this issue by lifting the pay offset for Nebraska’s 246 combat-injured veterans. Over the past three years, these veterans have repeatedly appealed to Rep. Flood to lend his support to the Star Act, emphasizing the need for fair treatment in recognition of their sacrifices.
While Flood has publicly praised veterans during patriotic holidays, the lack of action on this bill has raised concerns among constituents. As noted by Mark Anich from Omaha, the plight of these veterans should not be overlooked, especially given that they represent a small but significant voting bloc.
Rep. Flood’s political career began in 2022, when he won his election by a margin of 6,234 votes. The decision to cosponsor legislation that benefits disabled workers reflects a strategic move to appeal to key voter demographics. Advocates urge him to consider the potential impact of his support for the Star Act, as it addresses the financial hardships faced by those who have served their country valiantly.
As the conversation continues, the call to action remains clear: veterans deserve equitable treatment, and it is imperative for leaders like Rep. Flood to stand with them in their fight for justice.
