[Released May 2, 1961. Dated April 27, 1961]
Dear Mr.----------:
In my recent message on budget
and fiscal policy I recommended that the Congress enact selective increases
in compensation rates for veterans with service-connected disabilities,
to offset rises in the cost of living since the last increase in 1957 and
to adjust rates in categories which are out of line. The American people
have traditionally insisted that those veterans who were injured in the
service of their Nation be treated justly and humanely - a policy which
will be carried out by this Administration.
The Administrator of Veterans Affairs
has prepared and submitted to me a draft of legislation which implements
the recommendation in my message. I believe this approach which gives greater
increases to those veterans with the more severe injuries is fair and reasonable.
I am, therefore, transmitting the Administrator's letter of justification
and the accompanying draft bill. I strongly recommend early enactment of
this legislation by the Congress.
Sincerely,
JOHN F. KENNEDY