Congressman John B. Larson proudly represents Connecticut's First District. Now in his twelfth term, John sits on the influential House Ways and Means Committee—including the Subcommittee on Tax Policy and the Social Security Subcommittee, where he serves as the Chairman. Throughout his time in Congress, John has proven himself a staunch advocate for Connecticut's working families, our manufacturing and small business ecosystem, and commonsense solutions for the problems Americans face everyday.
Born and raised in the federal housing project of Mayberry Village in East Hartford, John is fond of saying he is the product of public housing, public education, and public service. His father, Raymond, worked for Pratt & Whitney, while his mother, Pauline, served on the Town Council. John graduated from East Hartford High School in 1967 and from Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) in 1971.
We owe a debt of gratitude to the brave members of the military who sacrifice so much to serve our country. While we will never be able to fully repay them for their service, it is imperative we do all we can to care for them. Today, Congressman Larson remains dedicated to providing our veterans with access to the highest level of service and care.
Too many veterans receive delayed or inadequate care from underfunded and mismanaged programs. Previously, Congress has acted to address these shortfalls, expanding and improving the Department of Veterans Affairs and looking at ways to address their claims backlog. In addition, the passage of the GI Bill for the 21st Century modernized the GI program to guarantee access to a four-year education for those who have served our country. For more information for those who qualify, please visit their website or call 1-888-GI BILL-1 (1-888-442-4551) to determine eligibility for benefits.
Congressman Larson, after hearing from a mother of a National Guard member, wrote legislation to reimburse troops for body armor purchased in Iraq and Afghanistan between September 11, 2001 and December 31, 2003. This legislation was signed into law as part of the 2005 National Defense Authorization Act. Furthermore, he helped fight for and pass critical veteran provisions in the American Rescue Plan signed into law in March 2021. This includes funding to reduce COVID-19 related backlogs at the VA, bolstering the VA's supply chain modernization efforts, funding for upgrading State Veterans Homes, funding for 12 months of retraining assistance for unemployed veterans, and prohibiting veteran's copayments during the pandemic.
In Connecticut, Congressman Larson maintains an active Veteran and Military Advisory Council with whom he regularly meets to gain feedback on issues and questions from our veteran community. Congressman Larson also employs veterans on his staff who understand the challenges that exist for our soldiers at home. Please reach out to his district office at 860-278-8888 with any questions or concerns related to VA benefits and healthcare.
Congressman Larson also began the Veterans History Project in Connecticut, documenting the experiences of military personnel from all ranks and all branches of service as well the contributions of civilian volunteers, support staff, and war industry workers. This project interviewed Vietnam Veteran and Hartford leader Steve Harris in partnership with the History Project at CCSU, recording Mr. Harris' oral history of his experience before, during and after the Vietnam War in Hartford Office.
Military families have also sacrificed so much and deserve nothing less than our full commitment to them. That's why Congressman Larson has worked to provide greater access to behavioral health treatment for military children with Autism. His bill, the Caring for Military Kids with Autism Act requires TRICARE – the military healthcare program – to provide greater access to treatment for military kids with Autism. This bill was signed into law and was subsequently extended through 2023. If you have a question regarding veterans benefits please call 860-278-8888. Our office can assist you with any specific inquiries to the Veterans Administration.
Military Medals
In the First District, Congressman Larson also works to ensure our veterans have received the medals they earned defending our freedom. From WWII veterans to those who have returned from the Operation Iraqi Freedom, Larson and his staff are available to help service members and their families find and receive military medals. If you have a question regarding military medals please call 860-278-8888.