Happy Independence Day! Today, we come together to commemorate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on the Fourth of July in 1776.

I come from a military family, and as a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I take seriously my responsibility ensuring Arizona veterans get the benefits they’ve earned. That’s why, throughout my time in Congress, I’ve always prioritized delivering real, lasting results for our men and women in uniform.

Just last month, the Senate passed our bipartisan Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act – legislation expanding critical health care access and eligibility for Arizona veterans exposed to harmful toxic substances. Our bill expands the time in which veterans can apply to access VA care from 5 years to 10 years after being discharged, and it ensures every veteran receives a screening to find out if the symptoms they’re experiencing are due to toxic exposure. And finally, it increases training for health care providers so they can be better equipped to recognize toxic exposure symptoms and get veterans the treatment they deserve.

Now that the PACT Act has passed the Senate with broad bipartisan support, it’s one step closer to becoming law. It’s just one of the many ways we’re working to deliver for Arizona veterans.

I hope you’re able to celebrate our great nation with loved ones today, Rj.