IAVA | May 27, 2021
IAVA Monthly SITREP
As the leading voice for the post-9/11 community, IAVA continues to create awareness on issues and topics impacting our community. Below are articles and news sources from the past month:
Thursday, May 27
IAVA NEWS COVERAGE
The Washington Post: Bills Touted by Jon Stewart May Help Millions of Veterans Get Care for Toxic Exposure
By Alex Horton
Two measures introduced in Congress by lawmakers this week would overhaul the way the Department of Veterans Affairs cares for millions of former service members who were exposed to toxic substances, from atomic radiation sites in the Pacific to open-air burn pits in Iraq and Afghanistan. The sweeping legislation, mostly focused on the issue of burn pits from recent wars, would compel VA to presume certain illnesses are linked to exposure to hazardous waste incineration, removing the burden of proof from veterans.
“Any pushback from lawmakers over cost would be disingenuous,” said Jeremy Butler, the chief executive of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America.
Wesley Black, a former infantryman in the Vermont Army National Guard, served on two combat deployments, including at a primitive outpost in eastern Afghanistan from 2009 to 2010. Soldiers would stand guard for hours shrouded in noxious smoke drifting from a burn pit nearby, he said. Electronics, food packaging, various metals and bloody uniforms were all soaked in jet fuel and set ablaze round-the-clock. Black was still on his tour when he developed chronic diarrhea and lost dozens of pounds. He later found blood in his stool, and VA diagnosed him with irritable bowel syndrome.
His condition worsened, and in 2017, VA diagnosed him with terminal colon cancer, he said.
Anchorage Daily News: Alaska’s LGBTQ Veterans Deserve Legal Protection
By Bri Kerbuski
This Military Appreciation Month, I joined the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America and hundreds of other veterans in calling on Congress to stand up for veterans by supporting a federal nondiscrimination law to protect the LGBTQ Americans who have defended our nation’s freedom and the more than 13 million gay and transgender people across the country.
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
By Bradford Betz
With an expected recall election on the horizon to oust Democratic California Governor Gavin Newsom, Republican hopeful Kevin Faulconer has proposed a plan to keep retired veterans in California.
Unveiled Wednesday, Faulconer’s “Helping Our Heroes” plan proposes to exempt military retirement from income taxes. Currently, only California, Vermont, Virginia and the District of Columbia – still fully tax military retirement pay.
Military Times: Millions of Vets Could Get New Benefits Under Toxic Exposure Legislation. But Can it Become Law?
By Leo Shane III
Congress may be on the verge of passing the most comprehensive legislation dealing with military toxic exposure issues in 30 years, potentially granting new health care and disability benefits to one out of every five living American veterans.
The event — featuring numerous veterans groups, House Veterans’ Affairs Committee members and comedian Jon Stewart — was the official unveiling of the newly crafted Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act.
Your Basin: Comedian Jon Stewart Helps Unveil Bill to Assist Veterans Exposed to Toxic Burn Pits
By Kellie Meyer
Comedian Jon Stewart and other veteran advocates were back on Capitol Hill Wednesday, fighting for benefits for veterans who were exposed to toxic burn pits while they were serving.
PR Newswire: Wounded Warrior Project Supports Introduction of The True Cost of War Recognition Act
Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) applauds the recent introduction of the Comprehensive and Overdue Support for Troops (COST) of War Recognition Act of 2021, by Senator Jon Tester (D-MT). Having been introduced at a Senate Veterans Affairs Committee markup, the Committee immediately advanced the bill by voice vote with bipartisan support. The health issues caused by burn pits and other toxic chemicals remain a critical issue facing post-9/11 wounded veterans — and a top legislative priority for WWP.
Medical News Today: Agent Orange and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Since 2003, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (USDVA) has recognized CLL specifically relating to exposure to Agent Orange and other herbicides.
A 2014 study found that having had exposure to Agent Orange decades earlier can significantly increase the risk of all types of cancer. This is likely because Agent Orange and a few other pesticides were contaminated with dioxin during production. Dioxin is an extremely toxic compound.
The Conversation: Veterans Took an Especially Bad Hit During the Pandemic
As the nation takes a day to memorialize its military dead, living military veterans are facing a deadly risk that has nothing to do with war or conflict: the coronavirus.
Different groups and communities have faced different degrees of danger from the pandemic, exemplified by the humanitarian disaster in India and the inequalities in U.S. health outcomes, vaccine distribution problems and outright rejection of vaccines. Veterans have been among the most hard-hit, with heightened health and economic threats from the pandemic. These veterans face homelessness, lack of health care, delays in receiving financial support and even death.
FWC: VA Lowballed Health Record Modernization Costs, Watchdog Says
By Adam Mazmanian
In a newly released report, the inspector general at the Department of Veterans Affairs indicates that the $16 billion cost estimate for the switch to the Cerner electronic health record system doesn’t incorporate billions of dollars in needed physical infrastructure costs.
Wednesday, May 26
IAVA NEWS COVERAGE
(IAVA Press Release) IAVA Joins Press Conference with Chairman Takano, Members of Congress, Jon Stewart & John Feal to Unveil Comprehensive Package Addressing Toxic Exposure
May 26, 2021: “No one in Congress should pretend to honor the sacrifices of our troops on this 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks while not supporting paying for the full cost of war and supporting these injured veterans,” said Tom Porter, EVP of Government Affairs for IAVA…Read more.
Stars and Stripes: Democrats’ Backroom Clashes Over Military Justice Erupt Onto the Senate Floor
By John M. Donnelly
Until Monday evening, by most public appearances, a growing consensus in Congress favored stripping military commanders of authority to decide which sexual crimes in the ranks should be prosecuted and instead empowering independent prosecutors to make those calls.
Tom Porter, executive vice president of government affairs at the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, an advocacy group with more than 425,000 members, said addressing sexual assault is the primary driver behind a desire for legislation to change military justice. But, he added, Gillibrand’s single prosecutor’s office for all major crimes that are not uniquely military makes the most sense.
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
Independent Record: Tester Rolls Out Toxic Exposure Bill for Veterans
By Tom Lutley
Acknowledging the federal government’s failure to treat military veterans exposed to toxic substances like Agent Orange and burn pit smoke, U.S. Sen. Jon Tester rolled out sweeping legislation Tuesday to assure health care and disability compensation.
Military Times: Zero COVID Deaths Among Veterans Affairs Patients for the First Time in 14 Months
By Leo Shane III
For the first time in 14 months, Veterans Affairs officials reported no new COVID-related deaths at department medical centers across the country on Monday, an encouraging sign that the pandemic may be ending.
Veterans News Report: Toxic Exposure on U.S. Military Bases
According to the Environmental Working Group, there are currently over 700 Department of Defense sites that are heavily contaminated with PFAS, a group of dangerous chemicals, throughout the United States. Many of these sites are military bases where people are stationed for several months to several years, either alone or with their family members, and which may result in toxic exposure to PFAS. The main source of PFAS on these military bases is aqueous film-forming foam, commonly known as AFFF, a fire suppressant whose formula was created by the U.S. Navy together with the well-known company 3M in the early 1960s.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Mental Health Matters, Now More Than Ever
Life can be difficult regardless of a global pandemic. VA offers a variety of mental health treatment options for Veterans directly at VA and community facilities, or online, through telemental health services. Telemental health may be the most accessible option if you live far from a health care facility.
WRIC: Dept. of Veterans Affairs Reinstitutes Mass Flag Placements in Time for Memorial Day
By Olivia Jaquith
After canceling the practice of placing American flags to honor service members in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced Monday that it will allow mass flag placements across the country at its national cemeteries to commemorate Memorial Day in 2021.
Nebraska.gov: Gov. Ricketts Signs Legislation for Military Retirement Pay Tax Relief
Governor Pete Ricketts signed Legislative Bill (LB) 387 into law, allowing 100% of military retirement pay to be exempted from Nebraska income tax starting January 1, 2022. The bill was sponsored by Senator Tom Brewer of Gordon at the request of Gov. Ricketts and prioritized by Senator Tim Gragert of Creighton. It passed the final reading with a 47-0 vote.
The Valley Breeze: Gathell Post Partners with Veterans Inc. to Get Vets Back to Work
By Ethan Shorey
The Walter F. Gatchell Post 306 in Pawtucket is partnering with Veterans Inc., a nonprofit founded in 1990 now helping veterans in all six New England states, on programs to help local veterans.
Tuesday, May 25
IAVA NEWS COVERAGE
Roll Call: Democrats’ Backroom Clashes Over Military Justice Erupt Onto Senate Floor
By John M. Donnelly
Until Monday evening, by most public appearances, a growing consensus in Congress favored stripping military commanders of authority to decide which sexual crimes in the ranks should be prosecuted and instead empowering independent prosecutors to make those calls.
Tom Porter, executive vice president of government affairs at the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, an advocacy group with more than 425,000 members, said addressing sexual assault is the primary driver behind a desire for legislation to change military justice. But, he added, Gillibrand’s single prosecutor’s office for all major crimes that are not uniquely military makes the most sense.
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
Stars and Stripes: Lawmakers to Launch Sweeping Legislation for Veterans Suffering from Toxic Exposure
By Nikki Wentling
Lawmakers will unveil sweeping bills this week that aim to create a fast track to Department of Veterans Affairs benefits for nearly all veterans who served overseas since 1990 and developed a respiratory illness or cancer.
CBS 2 Iowa: Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gathering Data to Research COVID-19 Impact
By Marissa Schwartz
Veterans across the United States, including here in Iowa, can help fight the COVID-19 pandemic by participating in a national research program.
It’s called the Department of Veterans’ Affairs Million Veteran Program.
The Statehouse File: Indiana Veterans Struggle to Find Jobs as State Reopens to Full Capacity
By Carolina Puga Mendoza
As Indiana has announced the termination of federally funded unemployment benefits and society returns to a level of normalcy, veterans continue to face challenges as they seek jobs and resources.
WJHL: Jay Zimmerman Begins Trek Across East Tennessee for Veteran Mental Health Awareness
By Kelly Grosfield
Zimmerman, an employee of the James H. Quillen Medical Center has set off on foot across East Tennessee on a quest to raise awareness for suicide prevention.
ABC 13: Mental Health Calls to Houston VA ‘Increased Dramatically’ Since Pandemic
By Tom Abrahams
So far this year, mental health consults at the DeBakey VA Medical Center are almost equal to the number for the entire year of 2020. It could double by the end of the year. Plus, calls to their crisis line are up 29%.
KDRV: Report: Oregon Ranked as Worst State in the U.S. for Military Retirees
By Jamie Parfitt
Oregon ranks dead last in the nation when it comes to providing a comfortable environment for veterans to retire, according to a recent report by personal finance website WalletHub.
Monday, May 24
IAVA NEWS COVERAGE
Austin American-Statesman: Opinion: Medical cannabis will ensure Texas vets don’t get left behind
By Nick Etten and Geoff Young
In one vital area, Texas is leaving our veterans behind: it is one of just 14 states where veterans don’t have access to medical cannabis, which has proven effective in helping manage the physical and mental wounds that often stem from their service to our nation.
Public polling shows widespread support for expanding the use of medical cannabis. Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America found that more than 80 percent of their members agree cannabis should be legal for medical purposes.
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
Associated Press: Biden bestows Medal of Honor on Korean War veteran
By Josh Boak
President Joe Biden awarded his first Medal of Honor on Friday to a 94-year-old retired Army colonel for bravery under enemy fire more than a half-century ago in the Korean War.
StarTribune: Biden’s Veteran Affairs secretary returns to Minnesota to highlight mental health, homelessness fight
By Stephen Montemayor
Gov. Tim Walz, Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, and Rep. Ilhan Omar joined McDonough earlier Friday for a tour of the Minneapolis VA facility before McDonough continued on to Hastings and Rochester. The secretary also visited St. Cloud a day earlier.
A Jackson man pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Carlton W. Reeves to two counts of wire fraud in a scheme to steal federal funds, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey Breen with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General.
WFLA: Widow of veteran poisoned by Agent Orange pushes law with his name on it
By Walt Buteau
If passed, the measure would expand disability benefits for veterans who were exposed to toxic herbicides by allowing presumptions of service-connection for anyone who served on, or in the waters of, Guam and American Samoa between January 9, 1962 and July 31, 1980.
The Daily News: ‘Dying unheard’: Camp Lejeune veteran facing homelessness speaks out
By Calvin Shomaker
Maynard says what he wants for Lejeune water survivors is the government to be honest and take care of the people that were poisoned by toxins he feels is killing him.
U.S. Government Accountability Office (GOA): The Department of Veterans Affairs Served Civilians in Battle Against COVID-19
With 170 medical centers and 1,074 outpatient clinics, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) runs the largest integrated health care system in the U.S. Its size, resources, and place within the federal government well position VA for responding to large-scale public health emergencies. While the VA’s first priority is to care for veterans and their eligible dependents, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the department was mobilized in a big way to also serve civilians.
Federal News Network: Veterans Affairs says no evidence of data loss from SolarWinds hack
By Jared Serbu
Leaders from the Department of Veterans Affairs told Congress on Thursday they are now confident that none of their data was compromised, even though the company’s Orion system had a prominent presence throughout VA’s IT networks.
Friday, May 21
IAVA NEWS COVERAGE
Utah Policy: Armed Forces Organizations, 500+ Veterans Announce Support of LGBTQ Federal Regulations
Today in honor of Military Appreciation Month, Freedom for All Americans released endorsements from major national armed forces organizations representing more than one million veterans and more than 500 individual veterans in support of federal nondiscrimination legislation to protect all LGBTQ Americans in all areas of daily life.
The signers and the letter — which was sent to U.S. Senators today to urge support of the Equality Act — can be found here. It includes endorsements from six organizations, including the Modern Military Association of America; Minority Veterans of America; Combined Arms; Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America; SPART*A; and Service Women’s Action Network.
“LGBTQ service members put their lives on the line to defend our country’s values and they must similarly be ensured freedom from discrimination at home,” said Jeremy Butler, CEO of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA). “Congress should pass legislation as soon as possible to update federal law and allow all Americans, including our LGBTQ veterans, to have basic opportunities and go about their lives without fear of being turned away or humiliated because of who they are.”
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
The Signal: County Takes Action on Veterans’ Suicide Prevention
By Kev Kurdoghlian
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors earlier this month authorized the creation a veteran’s suicide review team to respond to “systemic concerns” related to suicidal behavior among veterans and recommend strategies to minimize the risk for suicidal behavior for veterans.
FedScoop: Lawmakers Urge Department of Defense to Help Address Backlog of Veterans’ Records
By John Hewitt Jones
Lawmakers have signed a bipartisan letter calling on the Department of Defense to intervene after coronavirus delays caused a major backlog of requests from veterans seeking essential service records.
Federal News Network: Veterans Affairs Says No Evidence of Data Loss from SolarWorks Hack
By Jared Serbu
Leaders from the Department of Veterans Affairs told Congress on Thursday they are now confident that none of their data was compromised, even though the company’s Orion system had a prominent presence throughout VA’s IT networks.
US Government Accountability Office (GOA): COVID-19 Pandemic: VA Provides Health Care Assistance to Civilians as Part of the Federal Response
VA was tasked by the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide emergency resources to states, territories, and tribes as a part of the nation’s federal response to COVID-19. From March 2020-February 2021, VA conducted 117 of these “mission assignments” across 38 states, 1 territory, and 4 tribes. VA commonly deployed staff to treat patients in community medical facilities and provided inpatient care to civilians at VA medical facilities.
US Department of Veterans Affairs: VA Partner Salesforce Helps Air Force Veteran
VHA and Salesforce recently entered into a partnership aimed at helping Veterans and their spouses access free training, education and job opportunities through Salesforce Military. The program is committed to upskilling the military community with high demand technology skills. It also provides partners with a diverse and trained talent pipeline.
WCAX: Battle Over Burn Pits: New Legislation Could Help Vets Exposed to Toxic Fumes
By Darren Perron
You can’t burn trash legally in the U.S., but it’s happening in war zones, exposing as many as 3.5 million veterans to toxic fumes during the 20-year war on terror, including about 3,000 Vermonters. Many got sick; some died.
Now, there’s a renewed push to put those fires out and get help for vets who have been battling the federal government.
Thursday, May 20
IAVA NEWS COVERAGE
(Media Hits) IAVA CEO Jeremy Butler Explains the Importance of Prioritizing Equality for LGBTQ+ Troops
May 20, 2021: “For our country to truly respect the contributions of the dedicated individuals who serve, those protections must apply both inside and outside the military,” said Jeremy Butler, CEO of IAVA…Read more.
Queens Gazette: Military Sex Assault Bill Should Pass
Following years of relentless advocacy to reform the military justice system, deliver justice to survivors violent crimes in the military, and prevent sexual assault across the armed forces, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), chair of the Senate Armed Services Personnel Subcommittee, and U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Joni Ernst (R-IA), and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) announced on May 13 that they have secured 61 bipartisan cosponsors — the critical threshold needed for passage of the Military Justice Improvement and Increasing Prevention Act (S.1520).
The Military Justice Improvement and Increasing Prevention Act is endorsed by leading veterans groups including IAVA, American Legion, VFW, Vietnam Veterans of America, Protect our Defenders, SWAN, National Alliance to End Sexual Violence, National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), Common Defense, and Veterans Recovery Project.
Senator Rob Portman: Portman, Warren, Introduce Military Retiree Survivor Comfort Act to Support Military Families
U.S. Senators Rob Portman (R-OH) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) introduced the Military Retiree Survivor Comfort Act to amend Title 10 of the U.S. Code to prohibit the Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS) from clawing back any Department of Defense (DoD) retirement benefit overpayments received in the month when the veteran was alive for at least 24 hours.
This bill is supported by several military and veteran service organizations and other stakeholders, including: American Legion, Army Aviation Association of America (AAAA), Air Force Sergeants Association (AFSA), Association of Military Surgeons of the United States (AMSUS), Association of the United States Army (AUSA), Association of the United States Navy, Blind Veterans of America (BVA), Commissioned Officers Association of the U.S. Public Health Service, Inc. (COA), Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS), Fleet Reserve Association (FRA),Gold Star Wives of America (GSW), Iraq Afghanistan Veterans Association (IAVA), Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America (JWV), Marine Corps League (MCL), Marine Corps Reserve Association (MCRA), Military Chaplains Association of the United States of America (MCA), Military Officers Association of America (MOAA),Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH), National Military Family Association (NMFA), Non-Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA), Reserve Organization of America (ROA), Service Women’s Action Network (SWAN),Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), The Military Coalition (TMC), The Retired Enlisted Association (TREA), United States Army Warrant Officers Association (USAWOA), USCG Chief Petty Officers Association (CPOA), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), VetsFirst, and United Spinal Program.
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
The Lawton Constitution: Army Policy Offering Up to Three-Year Service Break
A retention policy offering Soldiers a chance to take a break in service while receiving pay and benefits for up to three years is now a permanent program.
River Bender: House Passes 9 Bost-Backed Veterans Bills
U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today voted in support of nine bills to help our nation’s veterans. Bost introduced one of the bills, the VA Camera Reporting (VCR) Act, alongside Rep. David McKinley (WV-01). This legislation would require the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to report to Congress on the use and maintenance of all cameras used for patient safety and law enforcement purposes in VA medical facilities.
Inside Indiana Business: Department of Veterans Affairs to Host Career Fair
By Mary Roberts
The Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs is Thursday hosting a career fair at the Indiana Veterans Center in Indianapolis. The event will be hosted by the Indiana Department of Workforce Development and will feature dozens of employers who want to hire veterans.
Federal News Network: VA Accountability Office Says It’s Improved, But Whistleblowers Aren’t So Sure
By Nicole Orgyski
The Department of Veterans Affairs’ Office of Accountability and Whistleblower Protection (OAWP) is at a crucial moment in its short-lived tenure.
Congress is considering new legislation that it hopes will make the office more effective after years of fielding complaints about its performance from VA whistleblowers, oversight groups and even OAWP employees themselves.
The Journal: Move Faster: Veterans Affairs Changes Can’t Wait
With the sentencing of Reta Mays to seven consecutive life terms in the deaths of veterans at Clarksburg’s Louis A. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, it may be tempting for officials to believe their work is done in the matter. That is far from the truth, and U.S. Rep. David McKinley, R-W.Va., Sens. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., and Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., know it.
By Rodney Lamp
The United States House of Representatives has passed the Veterans’ Camera Reporting (VCR) Act. The bill was introduced by Reps. David McKinley, R–W.Va., Alex Mooney, R–W.Va., and Carol Miller, R–W.Va.
WCAX: Battle Over Burn Pits: 1st-of-its-kind Lawsuit
By Darren Perron
Many are battling rare and aggressive cancers and other illnesses doctors haven’t seen before. The troops blame war zone burn pits– open-air trash fires filled with everything from human waste to body parts, metals, tires and more. Military members breathed in the smoke that hung over the bases. Now, one of those soldiers is about to go to war with the U.S. government.
Wednesday, May 19
IAVA NEWS COVERAGE
(IAVA Media) IAVA Highlights First Year Success of Flagship QRF Program
May 19, 2021: “Over the past year, QRF has helped veterans navigate transition related challenges as well as the mental health, economic, employment and social challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Hannah Sinoway, EVP of Organization Strategy & Engagement for IAVA…Watch here.
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
Insider NJ: Rep. Sherrill Sponsored GI Bill NEED Act Passes House
Today, the House passed Representative Mikie Sherrill’s (NJ-11) bipartisan GI Bill NEED Act (H.R. 2167), which protects access to veterans’ GI Bill and Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) educational and vocational programs from expiring due to national emergencies. This bill also ensures family members of those who die from service-connected disabilities automatically qualify for in-state tuition rates with their educational assistance and will give future recipients an unlimited time period to leverage that assistance.
USA Today: A College Closed, Upending One Veteran’s Life. Two Years Later, He’s Still Rebuilding
By Chris Quintana
Harrison had been given opportunities to enroll in college straight out of high school. But propelled by his family legacy and civic duty, he enlisted in the military instead. A mortar attack robbed him of his physical health, but he wasn’t worried. The military would still pay for his education. His body might be injured, but his mind worked. Or that’s what he hoped.
It was bad enough that the college he had chosen, Argosy University, had closed just months before he’d earn his degrees in psychology and business, leaving Harrison indebted, unemployed and even further removed from a years-long dream to get his degree. What was worse was that no one from the government or his university seemed interested in helping him to navigate the fallout of the sudden closure of the college.
WCNC: Veterans Become Commercial Drone Pilots Through Wounded Warrior Project
By Ruby Durham
The charity, which was founded in 2003, serves more than 190,000 wounded veterans and their families across the country.
The free program provides resources for veterans from nutrition, mental health, career counseling to financial counseling.
Tuesday, May 18
IAVA NEWS COVERAGE
Maui Now: Schatz Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Education Benefits For Veterans
US Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) who serves as a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, joined colleges in introducing the Student Veterans Transparency and Protection Act.
The bill is supported by Veterans Educational Success, Student Veterans of America, the American Legion, Blind Veterans of America, the Wounded Warrior Project, Disabled Veterans of America, the Military Officers Association of America, the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, the National Association for College Admission Counseling, Gold Star Wives of America, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, AMVETS, Higher Learning Advocates and the Institute for College Access & Success.
Texas GOP Vote: Rep. Mike Turner Endorses Senator Gillibrand’s Landmark Legislation to Combat Sexual assault in the Military
By Mike Turner
Introduced in the Senate by Senator Gillibrand (D-NY) and Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), MJIIPA would professionalize the military justice process by moving the decision to prosecute felony-level, complex criminal cases, including sexual assault, from the unit commander to a high-ranking and experienced military lawyer. The MJIIPA also increases prevention efforts through three approaches: enhanced training for key leadership billets, improved physical security of military installations, and increased training of investigative agencies and military prosecutors to address complex crimes like sexual assault and domestic violence.
The Military Justice Improvement and Increasing Prevention Act is endorsed by several leading veterans and sexual violence prevention groups, including the VFW, IAVA, Vietnam Veterans of America, Protect our Defenders, National Alliance to End Sexual Violence, SWAN, National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), Common Defense and Veterans Recovery Project.
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
The Berlin Sun: Guard and Reserve Members Can Now Use Education Benefits
Following a push from U.S. Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), the Office of the Secretary of Defense has signed a memorandum enabling members of the National Guard and Reserves to concurrently use Federal Tuition Assistance and GI Bill benefits to fund their education, similar to active duty service members.
Army News Service: Army Policy Offering Up to Three-Year Service Break
By Thomas Brading
A retention policy offering Soldiers a chance to take a break in service while receiving pay and benefits for up to three years is now a permanent program.
U.S. Department of Defense: DOD and VA Partner on Nation’s Only Suicide Prevention Conference Focused on Service Members and Veterans
This May, DOD and VA personnel from across the nation will convene online at the 2021 DOD/VA Suicide Prevention Conference to further the development of effective, innovative suicide prevention strategies.
WPXI: Renewed Effort to Ensure Veterans Are Reimbursed for Emergency Care at Non-VA Hospitals
By Samantha Manning
Hundreds of thousands of veterans are unfairly stuck with massive medical bills for emergency care the Department of Veterans Affairs should have paid for, according to lawmakers.
For nearly a decade, members of Congress and veterans groups have been pushing the VA to make sure veterans aren’t stuck with emergency care bills after being treated at non-VA hospitals. Two courts have ruled against the VA on this issue, but with ongoing appeals, many vets are still left waiting.
Monday, May 17
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
Center for American Progress: The Challenges Facing the Department of Veterans Affairs in 2021
By Lawrence J. Korb and Kaveh Tooan
Denis McDonough, the new secretary of Veterans Affairs, is only the second nonveteran to take the helm of the VA since it became a Cabinet-level department in 1988 and only the second person whom Congress did not confirm unanimously for the post.3 He will have his work cut out for him. Not only does Secretary McDonough have to manage a large and complex organization, but he is also facing a series of unprecedented challenges—all compounded by the fact that the VA’s top leadership is in turmoil following the Trump administration, which had five deputy secretaries4 during the former president’s four-year term.
Washington Examiner: Veterans Affairs to Reconsider Agent Orange Claims for Certain Vietnam Veterans
By Haley Victory Smith
The Department of Veterans Affairs will automatically reconsider Agent Orange benefits claims for certain Vietnam veterans that were previously denied.
WCAX: Push On to Expand Care for Vets Exposed to Toxic Substances
Republican Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Thom Tillis of North Carolina and Democratic Sen. Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire say the Toxic Exposure in the American Military Act would improve how veterans exposed to the substances receive care and benefits.
Friday, May 14
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
Bloomberg: Senators Want More Transparency About Veterans Education Money
By Janet Lorin
A bipartisan group of U.S. senators is proposing legislation to help veterans use their GI Bill money for higher education or certificate programs that can help them find employment and avoid squandering benefits on credentials with little value.
The Hill: Vets and Toxic Exposure — Follow the Money
By Rory E. Riley-Topping
Last week, when the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs held a hearing on several pieces of proposed legislation addressing benefits for veterans suffering from the effects of toxic exposures, questions arose as to whether the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) was following the science.
Daily Press: Sen. Warner Pushing to Support Veterans Affairs Legal Clinics
By Dave Ress
The Department of Veterans Affairs would give a boost to legal clinics that help veterans with their benefits, under a bill sponsored by Sen. Mark Warner.
Fox 47 News: New Mobile App Helps Veterans Combat Loneliness, Isolation Amid Pandemic
By TMJ4 Staff
The Center for Veterans Issues (CVI) and the Veterans of Foreign Affairs (VFW) teamed up to create a mobile app to help veterans feel less isolated. The CVI Help app can help a military member, a veteran or a family member get access to food, shelter, and health needs. It connects veterans to more than 560 organizations that are ready to help.
WV Metro News: VA Hospital Leaders Allowed Lapses That Led to Veterans’ Death. Then They Got Other Jobs
By Brad McElhinny
Lapses in oversight allowed veterans to be killed by a night shift nursing aide at a West Virginia veterans hospital, a federal probe concluded, but the leaders who allowed those lapses haven’t been fired. Instead, they have been shifted to jobs in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Clay County Progress: Working Age Veteran Unemployment is at an All Time High
By News Staff
You’d think Veterans ages 18-24 would be the prime job candidate for employers but the truth is unemployment of this group is at an all-time high of 15%. The problem is job seekers of this age aren’t sure how their military skills can translate into long term civilian careers.
KNSI: Local Nonprofit Awarded Grant to Help Veterans With Substance Use Disorders
By Dene Dryden
A local nonprofit that provides recovery services for people with substance use disorders has earned a big grant from the state of Minnesota, and it intends to focus those funds on veterans.
The Advocate-Messenger: Veteran Inmates at Northpoint Help Train Service Dogs for Diabled Veterans
By Olivia Mohr
At Northpoint Training Center, there’s a space for inmates who are military veterans, and these inmates have been helping to train service dogs for disabled veterans to remind them to take their medicine, alert someone if they have an incident, help them with mobility and, in addition to other help, provide them with companionship. This is through the Working Dogs for Vets nonprofit organization, which is based in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee.
Thursday, May 13
IAVA NEWS COVERAGE
WNYC: Honoring Those Who Died Over Twenty Years in Afghanistan
By The Brian Lehrer Show
As the Biden Administration works on the planned withdrawal from Afghanistan, Paul Rieckhoff, activist and veterans advocate, founder and president of Righteous Media, host of Independent Americans podcast, founder of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) and frequent contributor on CNN and MSNBC, and Allison Jaslow, adjunct professor at the Hart Leadership Program at Duke University, Iraq war veteran and former executive director of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) honor the lives lost over 20 years of war, and talk about what the US may be leaving behind.
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
WV News: Sen. Manchin Says He Will Work with VA Secretary McDonough on Issue
By Matt Harvey
The Department of Veterans Affairs may have yet to comply with its reporting requirements to the families of other elderly patients who died under suspicious circumstances at the Clarksburg veterans hospital.
Stars and Stripes: VA to Create Specialists to Handle Military Sexual Trauma Claims
By Nikki Wentling
The Department of Veterans Affairs will designate specialized offices to handle veterans’ claims of military sexual trauma in an effort to reduce the rate that the claims are denied, the agency announced Wednesday.
Bay News 9: VA Loan Misconceptions Cause Disadvantage for Veterans When it Comes to Buying a Home
By Alese Underwood
In today’s aggressive real estate climate, if an agent isn’t well versed in the VA loan process it can backfire for our veterans based on how the agent educates their sellers.
Military Times: Memorial Day Veterans Ride Gets New Staging Area After Pentagon Rejection
By Leo Shane III
Tens of thousands of motorcyclists set to descend on the nation’s capital for a Memorial Day veterans event will have a new starting line for their ride, following the Pentagon’s decision to deny the group a permit.
Wednesday, May 12
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Women Veterans’ Care Preferences Key to Preventing Suicide
Dr. Lindsey Monteith, clinical research psychologist, and Dr. Claire Hoffmire, epidemiologist, are VA researchers committed to improving our understanding of suicide risk and resilience among female Veterans. Their research shows that women Veterans often have complex health issues.
Tuesday, May 11
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
WFLA: Burn Pit Toxins Took Life of Tampa Bay Veteran But Did Not Silence Her Fight
By Walt Buteau
A Tampa Bay veteran is continuing the fight he started with his wife to smother toxic burn pits used by the military to dispose of everything from medical waste to chemicals.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: VA Launches Veteran Rapid Retraining Assistance Program
For Veterans who have lost their jobs due to COVID-19, VA has launched the Veteran Rapid Retraining Assistance Program (VRRAP).
Veterans participating in VRRAP will receive up to 12 months of tuition and fees and a monthly housing allowance based on Post-9/11 GI Bill rates.
WSKG: New York’s Doing What the Federal Government Won’t: Giving Benefits To Gay Veterans
By NPR News
Thousands of troops were expelled for being gay before Congress changed the law in 2011. Though many still don’t qualify for federal veterans benefits, they now can receive state benefits in New York, Colorado, and other states.
Monday, May 10
IAVA NEWS COVERAGE
USA TODAY: ‘They Will Slaughter Us’: Afghans Who Worked with US Beg for Visas as Troop Withdrawal Looms
By Deirdre Shesgreen
President Joe Biden set Sept. 11 as the deadline for a full U.S. withdrawal, an extension of the May 1 deadline set by former President Donald Trump. The Pentagon began drawing down forces earlier this month. But as the American military footprint shrinks, the security situation in Afghanistan has become increasingly dangerous.More than a dozen veteran and military advocacy groups have signed a letter to Biden calling for an evacuation. Among the signers: Veterans of Foreign Wars, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, and several smaller groups.
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
13 News Now: VA Secretary Supportive of Bills to Help Vets Suffering from Toxic Exposure
By Mike Gooding
The leading advocate for the nation’s 18 million military veterans made a stop in Hampton Roads Friday. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough visited the Hampton VA Medical Center. He touched upon many issues, including the importance of caring for vets who are suffering from exposure to burn pits in the Middle East over the last 30 years.
Military.com: Radiation Exposure and Liver Flukes: Little-Known Veterans’ Issues Get Attention in Congress
By Patricia Kime
Since at least 2018, Celestial has worked for passage of the Mark Takai Atomic Veterans Healthcare Parity Act, a bill that would recognize hundreds of veterans who participated in decontamination and containment work in Enewetak from 1977 to 1980 as “atomic veterans.”
The designation would make these veterans eligible for Department of Veterans Affairs health care and benefits if they have or develop specific illnesses linked to radiation exposure.
Inside NoVa: Veterans Unemployed Due to Pandemic Now Eligible for VA Job Training Funds
By Paul Lara
Veterans who lost their jobs due to the pandemic can apply to the Veteran Rapid Retraining Assistance Program through the Department of Veterans Affairs.
WTOL: Pandemic Creates Challenges for Veterans Dealing with Mental Health Issues
By Dan Cummins
Issues of depression, anxiety, and isolation experienced by veterans who have gone through combat, lost the camaraderie they found in the military and had to deal with separation from civilian life have all been magnified by the pandemic. Calls to the suicide prevention hotline in the Toledo-Ann Arbor region spiked last summer.
Military Times: Job Markets for Veterans Remains Flat as Pandemic Restrictions Linger
By Leo Shane III
Veterans unemployment rates stayed largely flat last month with slight improvements in job prospects among younger veterans as America finished its first full year under business restrictions from the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Clearance Jobs: VRRAP: A New Training Program For Veterans Under the American Rescue Plan
By Ron Kness
In an effort to change the unemployment outlook, the American Rescue Plan of 2021 included $17 billion for several veteran programs. One of these programs is a new fast training plan – the Veterans Rapid Retraining Assistance Program or VRRAP for short. It was signed into law on March 11 and the VA started accepting applications on May 3rd.
Thursday, May 6
IAVA NEWS COVERAGE
(IAVA Media) IAVA COO Sean Ullman Celebrates One Year Since Website Relaunch and Announces New Offerings
May 6, 2021: “We are constantly looking for ways to improve accessibility for our members and with our updated website, veterans can access the care they need more quickly and efficiently than ever before, with support available 24/7,” said Sean Ullman, COO for IAVA…Watch here.
Military.com: Mammoth Toxic Exposure Push Could Be Biggest Congressional Health Care Effort in Years
By Steve Beynon
The House is looking at 15 bills, ranging from incremental improvements to help veterans navigate bureaucracy at the Department of Veterans Affairs to expanding health care to those exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, radiation and other toxic environments. Takano said the bills “offer a blueprint” for a legislative package. “The iron is hot, and now is the time to strike. We’re in a good spot right now,” Travis Horr, director of government affairs for Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, told Military.com. “We’re seeing this is the year for presumptive care. … I think there could be some concern with cost, but this is included in the cost of war. No one was asking for a price tag when we went into Iraq and Afghanistan.”
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
Stars and Stripes: VA asks Congress to hold off on toxic exposure reform
By Nikki Wentling
The Department of Veterans Affairs asked Congress on Wednesday to hold off making major changes to the agency’s process of handling military toxic exposure until it finishes an internal review this fall.Lawmakers on the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs met Wednesday to discuss 15 bills that aim to help veterans suffering from illnesses believed to be caused by toxic exposure during overseas deployments. These veterans often face difficulty securing benefits through the VA because of the lack of scientific evidence linking their conditions to various exposures.
Military.com: Spc. Vanessa Guillen’s Harasser Was a Known Toxic Leader, Army Report Shows
By Rose L. Thayer
The sexual harassment that Spc. Vanessa Guillen faced before her death last year from a noncommissioned officer at Fort Hood wasn’t an isolated incident.
There had been four other complaints filed against her platoon sergeant for his mistreatment of subordinates, yet leaders continued to move him and keep him in charge of soldiers, according to an Army report released last week.
Military.com: VA Accepting Applications for New In-Demand Job Training Program
By Jim Absher
The Department of Veterans Affairs has begun accepting applications for a new GI Bill program designed to train veterans for high-demand jobs.
The Veteran Rapid Retraining Assistance Program, or VRRAP, offers up to 12 months of cash payments to eligible veterans who enroll in approved job training programs that lead to associate degrees, technical degrees or certificates.
Friday, May 7
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
WITN: DATA: Young Veterans Among the Hardest Hit Financially by the Pandemic
By Liam Collins
Data from Syracuse University again highlights just how much of a struggle it can be for veterans to transition back to civilian life. This year, the research shows that unemployment claims for veterans ages of 18 and 24 doubled from 7.5% to 15.1%.
KFVS 12: VA Offers New Job Training Assistance Program for Area Veterans
Veterans who’ve lost their jobs during the pandemic are getting a much-needed break thanks to the VA now taking applications for a new program to help veterans affected by the pandemic learn a new trade.
Wednesday, May 5
IAVA NEWS COVERAGE
(IAVA Press Release) IAVA Testifies to House Committee on Top Priority: Establishing VA Benefits for Veterans Suffering from Military Toxic Exposures
May 5, 2021: “IAVA is extremely supportive of three bills on the agenda today. We believe that the TEAM Act, the War Fighters Act, and the Burn Pits Exposure Recognition Act must be passed into law this year,” said Travis Horr, Director of Government Affairs for IAVA…Read more.
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
Stars and Stripes: House prepares veterans’ legislative package ahead of Memorial Day
By Nikki Wentling
The House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs is preparing to send a large collection of bills to the House floor ahead of Memorial Day weekend. The committee advanced 25 pieces of legislation Tuesday, including bills to improve health care services for female veterans, address veteran homelessness, enhance education benefits and boost oversight of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
New York Post: Help for vets who lost jobs because of COVID on the way
By Leo Shane III
Thousands of veterans who lost their jobs because of COVID-related challenges can now apply to be part of a new rapid retraining program designed to prepare them for new careers in high-demand specialties. The benefit, which is open to about 17,000 veterans, is targeted at those who have already exhausted other job-training opportunities but still find themselves without stable employment because of coronavirus closures, layoffs or health complications.
Tuesday, May 4
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
By Rick Pearson
Democratic U.S. Sens. Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth on Monday asked for federal assistance to ensure Illinois veterans homes have proper infectious disease planning and protocols in place following the release of a stinging report detailing large-scale mismanagement at the LaSalle Veterans Home, where 36 residents died of COVID-19.
Monday, May 3
IAVA NEWS COVERAGE
(IAVA Press Release) IAVA Launches Annual #GoSilent Memorial Day Campaign
May 3, 2021: “This Memorial Day, we encourage all Americans to #GoSilent in honor of those we have lost. We hope you will stand with us to honor the brave members of our military who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country,” said Jeremy Butler, CEO of IAVA…Read more.
The Hill: A call to action that every American can answer
By Kevin M. Schmiegel
The fundamental importance of service to our nation was reinforced by the White House a couple of weeks ago when President Biden proclaimed April 18-24 National Volunteer Week. While the president called upon all Americans to “volunteer at service projects across the country and pledge to make service a part of their daily lives,” nonprofit organizations like Operation Gratitude continued to act, providing countless opportunities for Americans of all ages and walks of life to give back in tangible ways. Operation Gratitude is not alone in its effort to strengthen communities through service despite pandemic and civil unrest. There are a number of nonprofits, like The Mission Continues and Team Rubicon, whose missions enable opportunities for veterans to serve in communities. Both have joined forces with Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), Student Veterans of America (SVA), Team RWB, and Wounded Warrior Project to create the Veterans Coalition for Vaccination. Together, they are aiding local and state officials in distributing the COVID-19 vaccine nationwide, and “working toward the common goal of ensuring each American who wants the vaccine has equitable access to it.”
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
NBC News: Slain soldier Vanessa Guillen had reported sexual harassment but leadership did nothing
By Courtney Kube
Army Spc. Vanessa Guillen, who authorities say was killed by a fellow soldier last year, had previously been sexually harassed by a supervisor but unit leadership took no action, according to an Army report released Friday. The report was released following an investigation into Army chain-of-command actions related to the disappearance of Guillen, who went missing from Fort Hood in April 2020.
The New York Times: Military Missteps Allowed Soldier Accused of Murder to Flee, Report Says
By Dave Philipps
Army investigators detained a fellow soldier in the killing of Specialist Vanessa Guillen just hours after her remains were found, but a series of missteps allowed the soldier to flee, then fatally shoot himself, according to an Army report released on Friday that examined what went wrong in the high-profile investigation. The revelation is part of a detailed report into the response to the killing, which has rocked the Army and led to calls for increased accountability. Among the findings are conclusions that Specialist Guillen had been sexually harassed, but not by the soldier who the Army believes killed her, and that the suspected killer had also been accused of unrelated sexual harassment. In both cases, the report concludes, leaders did not respond appropriately. In response, the Army announced on Friday, it has punished 21 soldiers and officers who failed to act.
By Paul Best
A U.S. Army investigation into the murder of Spc. Vanessa Guillén last year found that she was sexually harassed by a supervisor on two occasions, but leadership at Fort Hood ignored her reports of the harassment and failed to take appropriate action. The incidents of sexual harassment were “not related to her murder” and the fellow soldier accused of murdering her, Spc. Aaron Robinson, did not harass her, though he did harass another female soldier, according to the investigation.
USA Today: Vanessa Guillen was sexually harassed, Army report confirms, detailing how superior targeted her
By Heather Osbourne
The U.S. Army on Friday confirmed for the first time that slain Spc. Vanessa Guillen was sexually harassed and further retaliated against at Fort Hood, which her family in Houston has consistently alleged in their fight for criminal justice reform in the military.
Marijuana Moment: GOP Lawmakers File Another Marijuana Research Bill For Military Veterans
By Kyle Jaeger
A pair of Republican lawmakers on Friday introduced a congressional bill meant to promote research into the medical potential of marijuana for military veterans. This is the latest piece of legislation focused on cannabis and veterans that’s been filed this Congress. It comes one day after a bipartisan Senate bill was introduced—and on the same day that House members filed companion legislation—to require the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to conduct clinical trials into marijuana for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and chronic pain in the population.
Friday, April 30
IAVA NEWS COVERAGE
Military Times: Major overhaul in how the military handles sexual misconduct cases may finally happen
By Leo Shane III
On Thursday, a sizable bipartisan coalition of Senate lawmakers announced their latest push to remove sexual misconduct cases from the traditional military chain of command, establishing instead an independent counsel’s office to oversee the cases. The move comes one week after an independent Pentagon review commission recommended that independent authorities handle those cases, arguing they would be better qualified to deal with the complexities of evidence gathering and prosecutorial decisions than military leaders unfamiliar with the cases. “We’ve seen flag officers come to Capitol Hill for years promising they are going to tackle this problem,” said Tom Porter, executive vice president of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. “It’s not working.
Stars and Stripes: Lawmakers try again to change VA motto with new administration
By Nikki Wentling
Lawmakers are trying again to change the Department of Veterans Affairs motto to include female veterans after efforts were hindered under President Donald Trump. The VA motto, which has been the same for 62 years, is a quote from President Abraham Lincoln’s second inaugural address in 1865: “To care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow, and his orphan.” If adopted, it would use gender-neutral pronouns and read: “To fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those ‘who shall have borne the battle’ and for their families, caregivers, and survivors.” “Every veteran should feel welcome at the VA in an environment that celebrates the service of America’s veteran community as a whole,” said Jeremy Butler, CEO of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. “This is a critical first step, and much more work needs to be done to pass the bill into law this year.”
Air Force Magazine: Bipartisan Group of Senators Introduce Bill to Overhaul Military Justice
By Brian Everstine
A bipartisan group of more than 30 senators is sponsoring a bill that would overhaul military justice by taking the decision to prosecute serious crimes, including sexual assault, away from commanders and placing it with independent prosecutors. The Military Justice Improvement and Increasing Prevention Act, unveiled April 29, comes as the Pentagon is reviewing how it handles sexual assault. In addition to dozens of senators from both parties, the bill has been endorsed by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, Vietnam Veterans of America, Protect Our Defenders, the National Alliance to End Sexual Violence, SWAN, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Common Defense, and the Veterans Recovery Project.
Florida Daily: Vern Buchanan Reels in Support for his Veteran Overmedication and Suicide Prevention Act
By Kevin Derby
U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Fla., announced this week that his “Veteran Overmedication and Suicide Prevention Act” has the support of some leading veterans organizations. Buchanan has been pushing the bill “to investigate the link between addictive opioids and veteran suicides” in recent years. He brought it back at the start of the year with U.S. Rep. Gerald Connolly, D-Va., as the main co-sponsor. Other backers include Florida Republican U.S. Reps. Scott Franklin and John Rutherford. Buchanan announced on Wednesday that Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America and AMVETS are all backing his proposal.
VETERAN NEWS COVERAGE
Military.com: Lawmaker Sets Ambitious Plan for Omnibus Toxic Exposure Bill to Help Millions of Sick Veterans
By Steve Beynon
Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., set his sights Wednesday to deliver a sweeping legislative package to tackle a wide swath of health care issues impacting a half century worth of veterans sickened by toxic exposure — an ambitious target that could significantly bolster services at the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Military.com: Army to Review Thousands of ‘Bad Paper’ Discharges in Court Settlement
By Patricia Kime
A federal court has approved a settlement in a lawsuit that requires the U.S. Army to review thousands of other-than-honorable discharges issued in the past decade to soldiers with mental health conditions or traumatic brain injuries. Judge Charles Haight, with the U.S. District Court of Connecticut, approved the agreement Monday in the class-action suit formerly known as Kennedy v. McCarthy, which charged that the service wrongly discharged troops who engaged in misconduct but whose behavior may have been caused by a psychiatric condition or brain damage.
Politico: Pressure mounts on Austin to support major shift in handling military sexual assault
By Lara Seligman
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is under increasing pressure to support an overhaul of how the military handles sexual assault allegations in the ranks, overturning decades of military practice and, advocates argue, moving the Pentagon one step closer to ensuring justice for victims.
CBS News: Gillibrand pushes forward on legislation to overhaul how military handles sexual assault
By Eleanor Watson
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand on Thursday introduced legislation to overhaul how the military handles cases of serious crimes, including sexual assault. The legislation, backed by a growing number of senators, would move prosecutorial decisions for serious crimes out of the chain of command and give it to independent military prosecutors. “We owe it to our service members to do more to prevent these crimes, and to properly prosecute them when they occur,” Gillibrand said while announcing the legislation Thursday flanked by a bipartisan group.
Washington Examiner: Gillibrand bill to overhaul military justice system attracts small army of bipartisan co-sponsors
By Jamie McIntyre
New York Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand stood on the lawn outside the Capitol yesterday flanked by key Republican and Democratic colleagues and announced what will likely be the critical mass of votes to overhaul the military justice system that has consistently failed victims of sexual assault. The new law would remove the authority of commanders to decide when to prosecute serious crimes, and it would place the decision in the hands of independent, trained, professional military prosecutors, something Gillibrand has advocated for years. But now, she has 46 backers: 34 Democrats, two independents, and 10 Republicans, including Texas Sen. Ted Cruz and, notably, Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst, a former military commander, who previously opposed the reform.
Stars and Stripes: Lawmakers plan major reform to VA’s handling of toxic exposure
By Nikki Wentling
A contingent of Democrats and Republicans is working to reform how the Department of Veterans Affairs handles claims of military toxic exposure, taking advantage of what the lawmakers call a historic opportunity to make comprehensive change. During this congressional session, lawmakers have introduced two dozen bills to help veterans suffering from illnesses believed to be caused by toxic exposure during overseas deployments. These veterans face difficulty securing benefits through the VA, often having to fight through multiple rejections.
IAVA is the voice for the post-9/11 veteran generation. With over 400,000 veterans and allies nationwide, IAVA is the leader in non-partisan veteran advocacy and public awareness. We drive historic impacts for veterans and IAVA’s programs are second to none. Any veteran or family member in need can reach out to IAVA’s Quick Reaction Force at quickreactionforce.org or 855-91RAPID (855-917-2743) to be connected promptly with a veteran care manager who will assist. IAVA’s The Vote Hub is a free tool to register to vote and find polling information. IAVA’s membership is always growing. Join the movement at iava.org/membership.
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