House Bill 1144 proposes a monthly increase of $50 for both the Blind Veterans Pension Program and the Amputee and Paralyzed Veterans Pension Program administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. If enacted, the monthly pension would rise from $150 to $200—the first increase in over two decades.
“It’s been 26 years since these pension payments made by our Commonwealth were adjusted, and it’s long past due we make this change to support our disabled veterans,” said Watro.
Watro emphasized the importance of ensuring veterans who made immense sacrifices receive meaningful support.
“This $50 increase per month is the first step in right-sizing these programs for the deserving veterans who have served and sacrificed for our country,” he said. “I’d like to thank my colleagues, Rep. Dan Williams (D-Chester), Jared Solomon (D-Philadelphia) and Mark Gillen (R-Berks), for helping to get this bill through the House and to the Pennsylvania Senate.”
The bill now awaits action in the state Senate.