Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Deliver Long-Overdue Benefits to Combat-Injured Veterans

November 13, 2026 Press Release Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408 WASHINGTON, D.C. —Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted to pass the Major Richard Star Act , legislation that would allow combat-injured veterans who were medically retired from the military to receive both their military retirement pay and VA disability compensation in full. The legislation addresses a long-standing gap in federal law that has prevented certain veterans whose military careers were cut short by combat-related injuries from receiving both benefits without a reduction. “Military retirement and VA disability compensation exist for two different reasons. One recognizes your service, and the other compensates you for the injuries you sustained because of it,” said Congressman Harrigan. “I've never understood why a veteran who was wounded in combat and forced to retire early should have to give up part of one to receive the other. As a Green Beret, I served with men whose careers ended because of injuries sustained downrange, and I know what they've given for this country. I'm proud to support finally fixing this, and I hope the Senate gets it across the finish line.” Under current law, certain combat-injured veterans who were medically retired before completing 20 years of service have their military retirement pay reduced when they receive disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs. The Major Richard Star Act would eliminate that offset for eligible veterans, allowing them to receive both benefits without a reduction. With House passage, the Major Richard Star Act now moves to the Senate for consideration. Congressman Harrigan is urging the Senate to advance the legislation and deliver long-overdue relief to veterans who were forced to end their military careers because of injuries sustained in service to the country. Issues : Supporting Veterans and Military Families