There's a bill before the Texas House that's gotten the attention of a local Veterans organization that could affect the position of local Veterans Service Officer Sherry Riley if no action is taken to support the legislation.

 

House Bill 906 (HB906) says Ms. Riley cannot receive certification and accreditation through the Texas Veterans Commission the way qualifications are now because she's not a widowed Gold Star Mother or spouse, or the spouse of a 100 percent disabled Veteran.

 

VFW Post 8904 Quartermaster Larry Hume says this has nothing to do with Ms. Riley's job performance. He said if this bill amendment is not approved it limits the hiring pool considerably and eliminates outstanding candidates like Ms. Riley.

 

Hume noted the amendment to the state code is worded to include "the spouse of a retired veteran who served a minimum of 20 years on active duty." He added Ms. Riley is married to a 24-year Air Force retiree, Wayne Riley with a 40 percent disability.

 

The bill is known as an act is currently before the Defense and Veteran’s’ Affairs committee members awaiting a vote.  Even if the bill does not receive two-thirds vote it will still go into effect in September if simply voted on.

 

Hume is encouraging Veterans to contact members of the Texas Veterans Commission to vote "for" House Bill 906 (HB906). Sherry Riley serves as the Veterans Service Officer for Shelby and San Augustine Counties.

 

Hume commented, "If this does not happen, local Veterans will be the ones to suffer." He added, "In the past six months Ms. Riley has helped two Veteran families find adequate housing before becoming homeless." 

 

Hume is asking Shelby and San Augustine counties to come together and contact one or all members of the Texas Veterans Commission and let them know you support HB 906. 

 

Hume says it needs to come to a vote. 

 

Rep. Susan King, Chairman , Defense & Veterans' Affairs Committee  at (512)

463-0718

 

Rep. James Frank Vice Chair Defense & Veterans' Affairs Committee  (512)

463-0534

 

Rep. Jimmie Don Aycock Texas House Member (512) 463-0684

 

Rep. César Blanco Texas House Member (512) 463-0622

 

Rep. Joe Farias Texas House Member (512) 463-0714

 

Rep. Matt Schaefer Texas House Member (512) 463-0584

 

Rep. Matt Shaheen Texas House Member (512) 463-0594

 

If you would like to email them go to:

http://www.house.state.tx.us/committees/committee/?committee=305

 

To read the bill to to:

http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/84R/billtext/html/HB00906I.htm