Larson Votes for Major Richard Star Act to Ensure Fair Pay for Disabled Veterans

November 13, 2026 Press Release Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement after voting for the Major Richard Star Act , a bipartisan bill that allows veterans who were medically retired as a result of combat or training injuries to receive both retired pay and disability compensation, regardless of time served. After Republican leadership blocked the bill from advancing to the floor, Larson signed a discharge petition to force a House vote on the Major Richard Star Act . “Congress has a sacred duty to do right by our brave veterans, who put their lives on the line to defend our freedoms,” said Larson. “As we recognized Veterans Day this week, I was honored to cast my vote in favor of the Major Richard Star Act , so we can finally ensure all disabled veterans receive the pay and benefits they have earned and deserve. It was disappointing to see Speaker Johnson play politics with this critical bill over the last few months, refusing to hold a vote and instead weaponizing a procedural gimmick to force through a bill that would reduce disability compensation for nearly two million Americans and triple VA home loan fees—on Veterans Day no less. After yesterday’s shameful attack on veterans benefits by the outgoing Republican majority, I am glad that common sense and the duty every Member of Congress has to support our veterans prevailed yesterday. I urge the Senate to send the Major Richard Star Act to the President’s desk and vote down the benefit cuts that should have never passed the House of Representatives.” Issues : Veterans