WASHINGTON, DC - After overcoming a Republican filibuster, the U.S. Senate today voted 98-0 to pass the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2009, which includes a key provision championed by U.S. Senator Jack Reed that will provide critical support to the family caregivers of severely wounded veterans.

"I am proud to have supported this vital piece of legislation, which will ensure that our wounded veterans receive the care and support they need and deserve to rebuild their lives. This bill provides access to these services by establishing an unprecedented training program for the caregivers of severely injured veterans," said Reed, a former Army Ranger, who serves on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Veterans Affairs.

The Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2009 would:

• Establish a permanent program to train, support, and assist the caregivers of severely injured veterans;
• Improve care for veterans in rural areas, reduce veterans homelessness, expand services for women veterans; and
• Improve VA's ability to recruit and retain a strong workforce and provide quality assurance at its medical facilities.

This bill now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration.