New plan would require private insurance to cover veterans' service-connected injuries.
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New plan would require private insurance to cover veterans' service-connected injuries.

Date: March 17, 2009
By: Chance Seales
State Capitol Bureau

Intro: Private insurance companies would be required to pay up for VA services used by Missouri veterans with service-connected injuries.

Chance Seales (SEALS) reports from Jefferson City.

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Missouri veterans' groups are concerned that returning servicemen and women won't get the health coverage they depend on.

President Barack Obama is proposing that private insurance companies pick up the tab for service-connected injuries treated at VA hospitals, totalling $540 million.

However, the American Legion says the plan is flawed and could lead to increased premiums and uninsured vets.

Rep. David Day of Dixon chairs the Missouri House Veterans Committee and says   

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Description: "I've yet to receive one email from a veteran saying they're in favor of it.  So, again they're the ones who fought the battles and they're the ones receiving the care."

Days says he has been contacted by several Missouri groups opposed to the new plan. 

From the State Capitol, I'm Chance Seales.

Intro: If the President gets his way, Missouri veterans would face potential costs for service-connected health coverage according to veterans groups.

Chance Seales (SEALS) reports from the State Capitol.

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President Barack Obama wants to require private insurance companies to pay back VA hospitals for treating injured war vets.

Victor Stragliati is with the Missouri American Legion's and says the new plan is unacceptable and it could deprive veterans of necessary health care.

Rep. David Day of Dixon chairs the Missouri House Veterans Committee and says he sides with veterans groups.

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Description: "They're the one who have fought the battles for us and they're the ones receiving the care, and I would rely heavily upon what they want.  And if what we've been doing is working for them, then I think that's the direction we ought to stay with."

The proposed plan is estimated to save the Veterans Administration $540 million.

From Jefferson City, I'm Chance Seales