Rep. Kennedy Advocates for a Milford Veteran

Rep. Kennedy Advocates for a Milford Veteran (VIDEO)

HARTFORD- State Rep. Kathy Kennedy (R-119) testified in support of Senate Bill 269 An Act Concerning Workers’ Rights on behalf of Milford constituent and veteran, Jes Kraus.

After a long and dedicated public service career as a veteran, a municipal and state employee in both Vermont and Connecticut, Mr. Kraus and his family finds themselves in a situation no one ever wants to be in. Mr. Kraus was diagnosed with stage 3B colorectal cancer at age 48, and underwent a prolonged course of radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery. Mr. Kraus asked to purchased military service credit to count toward eligibility for disability retirement.  That would have made him eligible in the fall of 2028.  

During testimony, Mr. Kraus stated, “I have a better shot at living 2 ½ years than 6 ½ years.”  

Since he had purchased four years of military service credit, Mr. Kraus believes that the requirements would be shortened to six years, but the retirement division of the State of Connecticut will not count the military service.  It can only be done by a legislative fix.

Rep. Kennedy said, "No one should ever have to choose between their health and supporting their family, faced with the possibility of losing their home, their income and health insurance due to invasive medical treatment while undergoing a terminal illness.  I strongly encourage the Labor committee to look at current legislation and see if there is a fix to the current statutes. 

Kennedy completely agreed with Mr. Kraus who said in testimony, "Veterans should simply not be disadvantaged in this way.”