The Take Care of America's Veterans Act (H.R.9237, S.4744) is advancing through Congress, and now is the time to make your voice heard.

The VFW proudly supports many of its provisions, including the Major Richard Star Act, strengthening mental health protections for veterans, and expanding support for surviving families. These are important priorities that deserve the support of Congress.

What we cannot accept is asking one generation of veterans to pay for another.

The Take Care of America's Veterans Act would offset the cost of these important provisions by reducing future veterans' disability compensation for tinnitus and sleep apnea through changes to VA's Schedule for Rating Disabilities. While current disability ratings would be protected, future veterans with service-connected disabilities could receive less compensation than they otherwise would have under current law.

America's obligation to those who serve is a debt owed by our nation, it is not a debt that should be paid by other veterans. The cost of caring for veterans should be paid through the federal government, not by reducing the earned disability compensation of future generations who answered the call to serve, including many who are serving in harm’s way right now.

This week, VFW leadership, VFW staff, VFW National Legislative Committee members, VFW members, and advocates from across the country are meeting with members of Congress and their staffers on Capitol Hill to urge them to reject these disability compensation offsets. You can strengthen those efforts by making your voice heard today.                                                                 

Veterans kept their promise to America. Congress must keep its promise to veterans.

Thank you for standing with the VFW and for helping to ensure Congress hears directly from those who have served.

Sincerely,

Kristina Keenan

Director, National Legislative Service