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News from the Keweenaw Peninsula Posted June 18, 2002 Press release © 2002 State Rep. Rich Brown (D-Bessemer)

Michigan Vets honor Rep. Rich Brown

"The American Legion is very appreciative to Rich Brown, and we are grateful for all of his efforts on behalf of veterans' issues. He is a strong voice not only for his constituents, but for the whole State of Michigan," said Vern Henrichs, Chairman of the Legislative Standing Committee for the American Legion, Department of Michigan. "We are fortunate to have Rich Brown in the Legislature advocating for veterans' issues. This recognition of his hard work is very well deserved."

Rep. Brown, a member of the House Appropriations Committee, commented during the presentation that the current legislative session has involved a number of important issues for veterans.

"This past fall, the Governor's Executive Order cut $1,791,625 Million out of Military and Veterans' Affairs programs. I found that to be completely irresponsible and did not support the Executive Order. I was shocked by the $891,625 that was cut from Veterans' Service Organizations. We enjoy tremendous opportunities and freedoms in this country, and we must actively support our veterans who have defended our nation and made all this possible," said Brown.

Brown also mentioned the fact that the legislature was able to restore state funding to veterans' services organizations to $3.9 million for Fiscal Year 2003, the level of funding prior to reductions made late in 2001 due to a shortfall in state revenue.

"Veterans' service organizations provide a pivotal role for Michigan's veterans, particularly in the more rural areas of the State," Brown said. "I'm glad we were able to provide funding to help veterans' groups like the American Legion. I am very grateful to be able to serve these individuals who have served our country so well."

Editor's Note: Rep. Rich Brown, who has visited the Keweenaw area on several occasions since his election, is also a guest columnist for Keweenaw Now. Read more about Rich Brown, who represents District 110 in the Michigan House of Representatives.

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