This week, the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs held a confirmation hearing for President Biden’s choice for VA secretary, Denis McDonough, previously chief-of-staff for former President Obama. If confirmed, this would be only the second time that a non-veteran has served as VA secretary. While some have voiced concerns over McDonough serving as the head of VA, IAVA is optimistic over the nomination. He has expressed a desire to partner with the veteran community and to address our top priorities like combating suicide, fighting against sexual assault and harassment at the VS, and protecting student veterans from predatory schools. Read more about the hearing HERE and watch it in full HERE.

Monday, IAVA celebrated President Biden’s repeal of the ban on transgender people from serving in the military established by former President Trump. When the ban was put in place, IAVA was quick to voice disapproval of the decision, stating that all able to serve in the military, should have their chance. IAVA is proud to always stand on the right side of equality issues and will continue fighting to ensure that our nation maintains the best and most qualified force possible and that all veterans and servicemembers are properly honored by our nation and served by the VA and DoD. Read our press release HERE.

Director of Government Affairs, Travis Horr, attended a roundtable by VA on burn pits. The VA brought experts from both the health research and benefits side to update VSOs on what continues to be done for servicemembers and veterans that have been exposed and are suffering from adverse health effects. IAVA was happy to hear that more veterans are having successful benefits claims, however, we must continue to fight for a presumption of illness to ensure that the onus is not on the veteran. Stay tuned as IAVA continues to work with our VSO and Congressional allies to ensure that veterans get the benefits they deserve.

The Department of Defense (DoD) briefed VSOs on how they have been meeting challenges of COVID-19 for the Armed Forces Retirement Homes, located in Washington, D.C and Gulfport, MS. Since March 2020, the facilities have been closed to visitors and residents have only been able to depart for necessary appointments and extended leave. As of this week, 91% of the residents have received both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine and the facilities are expecting to begin relaxing restrictions beginning February 15.   

IAVA’s Quick Reaction Force 

We know that this time can be stressful and IAVA’s Quick Reaction Force (QRF) is here to help! This program provides 24/7 peer support, comprehensive care management, resource connections, and can help with accessing your VA benefits. To get connected to a Veteran Care Manager for immediate help anytime, day or night, please call 855-91RAPID (855-917-2743) or fill out our online form. Our services are remote, free, and confidential and QRF is here for all veterans, regardless of era, discharge status, or location. If you are a veteran or a veteran family member facing challenges or have questions, QRF is here to help you get back on your feet and meet your goals.

If you are currently experiencing a crisis please contact the Veterans Crisis Line at 1.800.273.8255, and press 1. Alternatively, use the Crisis Text Line by texting “RISING” to 741741