TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Independent candidate Greg Orman has outlined proposals for helping veterans as he campaigns against Republican Sen. Pat Roberts in Kansas.

Orman had a Statehouse news conference with several veterans Friday to tout his initiatives. They include a loan program to help tide over veterans who are waiting to receive disability payments.

The independent candidate also said the federal government needs to act to protect veterans from predatory loans for higher education. He said steps include forgiving some loans and greater resources to investigate abuses.

Orman also proposed expanded federal funding for special courts aimed at providing treatment rather than prison for veterans with legal problems and expanded efforts to combat homelessness among veterans.

Roberts is a former Marine who has touted his past work on national security issues and military projects.