Dear Mr. and Mrs. Santos:

    Thank you for contacting my office to express your views on proposals to raise Tricare fees and deductibles for some military retirees and their families. As you may know, the Bush Administration's fiscal 2007 defense budget includes plans to raise Tricare fees and deductibles for military retirees under age 65 and their dependents. Please be assured that I share your concern about these proposed changes and will keep your views in mind as this proposal is considered by Congress. I remain committed to ensuring that all veterans and their families continue to have access to quality, affordable health care.  

    I believe that all citizens should become involved in the legislative process by letting their voices be heard, and I appreciate the time and effort that you took to share your thoughts with me. One of the most important aspects of my job is keeping informed about the views of my constituents, and I welcome your comments so that I may continue to represent California to the best of my ability. Should I have the opportunity to consider legislation on this or similar issues, I will keep your views in mind.

    For additional information about my activities in the U.S. Senate, please visit my website, http://boxer.senate.gov . From this site, you can access statements and press releases that I have issued about current events and pending legislation, request copies of legislation and government reports, and receive detailed information about the many services that I am privileged to provide for my constituents. You may also wish to visit http://thomas.loc.gov  to track current and past legislation.

    Again, thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts with me. I appreciate hearing from you.