1 February 2005

Governor Issues Statement on Increasing “Death Gratuities” and Insurance

The following statement is from Governor Kathleen Sebelius:

“I am pleased and gratified that President George W. Bush will propose increasing the death benefits to $100,000 and the government-paid insurance to $150,000 for the families of military men and women killed in the line of duty. These proposals, included in the president’s budget for Fiscal Year 2006, will offer material compensation for those who have paid the ultimate price of service. Of course, no sum of money can adequately offset the great losses these families have suffered, but these new policies will provide real assistance in their hour of greatest need.

“The president’s proposals mesh seamlessly with the Kansas Military Bill of Rights, which I announced Friday in Wichita. Our initiatives are directed at those who serve from Kansas, and they complement the president’s federal-level plan.

“I urge the Congress as a whole, and the Kansas delegation in particular, to pass the president’s proposal with dispatch.

“The Kansas and national efforts are entirely consistent, as we all strive to ensure that military service will not exact costs beyond those already suffered by the affected families.”