In the News

Earlier this week, Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA), Congressman Paul Mitchell (R-MI), Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA), Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC) introduced H.R. 2847, the No Passport Fees for Heroes’ Families Act, which waives passport fees for family members obtaining a passport to visit an injured servicemember overseas. It mirrors a provision in existing law that waives passport fees for family members attending an overseas funeral or memorial service for a fallen servicemember.

“No family should have to worry about the hurdles and cost of a passport when trying to visit an injured servicemember. The No Passport Fees for Heroes Act is a small measure of our gratitude so that families can be with their loved ones in their time of need,” said Congressman Connolly.

“Our nation’s servicemen and women – as well as their families – sacrifice greatly for us, and it’s important we support them in their greatest moments of need. The No Passport Fees for Heroes’ Families Act will remove a barrier that keeps family members of injured servicemen and women from being able to visit their loved one who was seriously injured while deployed overseas,” said Congressman Mitchell. “This bipartisan bill is one way we can show our collective appreciation to our nation’s servicemembers and military families, and I urge its swift consideration in the House.”

“When men and women are injured in the defense of our country, we should be ensuring they have the highest standard of care, benefits, and support they’ve earned through their selfless service. And when these dedicated servicemembers are treated abroad, that support can often include a visit from a family member to reassure and comfort them during difficult circumstances,” said Congresswoman Spanberger. “I’m proud to help introduce this bipartisan legislation, because the families of servicemembers should not have to worry about the extra cost of obtaining a passport. By waiving passport fees, we are giving our military families an opportunity to be with their loved ones during an incredibly stressful time—and it’s just one small way we can continue to recognize the tremendous bravery of those who put themselves in harm’s way each day to keep our communities strong and safe.”

“By waiving the passport fee for family members who are visiting an injured servicemember overseas, we can unite military families during difficult times. I am grateful to Congressman Paul Mitchell for leading this legislation,” said Congressman Wilson.

Click here to read the story that inspired the creation of this legislation.

Click here to read the text of the No Passport Fees for Heroes’ Families Act.