(RENO, NV)--Supporting expanded educational benefits for Nevada's veterans, Second Congressional District Candidate Jill Derby today called on Dean Heller to co-sponsor legislation in the House that would bring much-needed reform to Montgomery GI Bill benefits.

The Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Act (H.R. 2407) would overhaul the Montgomery GI Bill, providing more affordable access to college education for veterans and opening assistance to some active members of the armed forces, encouraging reenlistment.

"This legislation provides the greatest expansion of veterans educational benefits in decades," said Derby.  "We owe our veterans every opportunity for the sacrifices they make.  Politics and bureaucracy must not get in the way of ensuring that veterans have affordable access to higher education."

"It is unfortunate that Dean Heller is dragging his feet on support for Nevada's veterans," said Derby Campaign Manager David Mason.  "Few places in the nation stand to benefit from this reform as much as Nevada's Second Congressional District, where nearly one in five residents is a veteran."

Derby has signed onto the Responsible Plan to End the War in Iraq, a package of legislation designed to bring about a diplomatic offensive to end the war, to restore constitutional protections, and to provide added benefits for America's veterans.  The Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Act is part of the Responsible Plan.

Jill Derby, a fourth-generation Nevadan, started life on her family's Flying Flapjack Ranch in Lovelock and rural Nevada has shaped the values she holds today.  Derby is running for Congress because she is fed up with career politicians who put themselves and their party ahead of what is right for the country--living up to the promises made to veterans, ensuring a secure nation, a sensible energy plan, affordable prescription drugs, accessible health care, and a fiscally responsible government.  Her website is http://www.jillderby.com/.