Iraq Veteran State Sen. Mike Rush Reappointed Chair of Veterans Committee

US Naval Reserves veteran State Sen. Mike Rush was re-appointed as the chairman of the Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs for the 2013-2014 Legislative Session.  

Rush served as the Committee Chairman last session, during which he authored the VALOR Act that increased support for veteran-owned businesses, Gold Star families, military children, and higher education access in the Commonwealth for veterans.

Rush's seat is now referred to as D-Norfolk/Suffolk, due to district lines changing, was reappinted by state Sen. President Therese Murray, according to a press release. 

Rush, an Iraq War Veteran, said via press release, “I am honored to serve as Chairman of this important committee. We accomplished a lot during the past session for veterans, servicemembers, and their families and I look forward to continuing to ensure Massachusetts number one in the nation in how we treat our veterans.”

Rush was also appointed vice-chairman of the Environment, Natural Resources, and Agriculture Committee, and as a member of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. Rush, whose wife had a son in December - their second child, will also serve on the committees on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies, Labor and Workforce Development, and Transportation.

“As a co-chair of the Legislative Parks Caucus, I am pleased that the Senate President has given me the opportunity to be vice-chairman of the Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture committee,” said Rush. “I am fortunate to serve on committees that will be tackling major reform initiatives in the coming months.”

Rush was sworn in for his second term to represent the Norfolk & Suffolk District, which consists of parts of Boston including West Roxbury and Roslindale, Dedham, Dover, Needham, Norwood and Westwood.