Bill passes unanimously after hold lifted, amendment overwhelmingly rejected

Oklahoma City, OK - Following the passage of S 1963, the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2009, in the U.S. Senate, Oklahoma Democratic Party Chair Todd Goodman issued this statement:

"I am glad that the U.S. Senate was able to work around the lonely stance by Oklahoma Senator Tom Coburn against this bill that covers urgent needs for this country's best and bravest - our veterans. Sen. Coburn's act of holding the bill from consideration by the U.S. Senate was unconscionable, and I am grateful that he finally caved in to the demands of national veterans groups and thousands of Oklahomans to release his hold. After he placed his misguided political grandstanding in check, this important measure passed the Senate unanimously.

"When Sen. Coburn first revealed that he had placed the anonymous hold on the bill, he suggested we cut programs that support character education, literacy and civic education before considering legislation to support our veterans.

"But when it came time to put his concerns on the record, Sen. Coburn changed his mind and suggested cutting different programs in an amendment to the legislation. When that amendment overwhelmingly failed, Sen. Coburn turned around and voted for the bill. For someone who prides himself on consistency, Sen. Coburn sure changed his position a lot on this bill.

"What's most important is that, despite the acrobatic political posturing by Sen. Coburn, S 1963 passed the U.S. Senate; our veterans and their caregivers have a chance to get better access to care; and we will truly honor their service and sacrifice."