Independent Budget Released
The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), DAV (Disabled American Veterans) and the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) have released two reports: The Independent Budget Agency for the 317th Congressional and the Independent Budget by 2022-23 for the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) budget recommendations.
“For over 30 years, the VFW has partnered with our colleagues at PVA and DVA to produce The Independent Budget, which recommends proper funding and staffing for all programs at the Department of Veterans Affairs,” said VFW National Commander Hal Roesch “Ensuring that veterans receive proper health care and benefits during this tumultuous time has never been more important.”
The report lists toxic substance exposure, VA infrastructure, minority veterans and employment among many critical issues facing today’s veterans. The report also provides estimates for funding the VA will require in order to provide health care, benefit and transition services to more than 10 million veterans, their families and survivors.
Veterans Rapid Retraining Bill Introduced In The House
Last Monday, Representative Mike Bost (R-IL) introduced VFW-supported H.R. 637. A few days prior, Senators Tester (D-MT) and Moran (R-KS) introduced the Senate version of this legislation. This important legislation would provide 12 months of retraining benefits to certain veterans who became unemployed as the result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Veterans between the ages of 22 and 66 who are not eligible for other VA education benefits would qualify for retraining assistance in high-demand occupations. The VFW thanks our friends in Congress for this effort to address veteran unemployment arising from the global pandemic.
COVID-19 Vaccine Tool Finds High-Risk Veterans
The VA has created a tool to identify high-risk veterans who would be eligible first for the COVID-19 vaccine according to CDC vaccine guidelines. The VA’s electronic medical records make it possible for the tool to sort veterans according to age and health conditions. To help the process, veterans and their caregivers can ensure their contact information is current, sign-up for updates and express their interest in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.
COVID-19 Vaccines Will Be Available Through TRICARE
The White House has announced that COVID-19 vaccines will be made available through the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program. TRICARE beneficiaries should contact their local TRICARE network pharmacy to determine if they can schedule an appointment to receive the vaccine once the vaccines are delivered to their area.
Mobile Vet Centers Arrive On Capitol Hill
Last week, the VA deployed two Mobile Vet Centers to provide outreach, counseling and referral services to the U.S. National Guard, U.S. Capitol Police, lawmakers and congressional staffers. Mobile Vet Centers are often activated to support disaster-affected areas and serve as a component of the VA’s emergency response. When planning local or regional events, a Mobile Vet Center can be requested to connect veterans with benefits, enrollment, and other VA services.
Blood Donation Need Still Critical
With the severe winter weather and seasonal illness, the Red Cross strongly urges healthy, eligible individuals who are feeling well to give blood, platelets or plasma to help maintain a sufficient supply for those battling COVID-19, cancers and other infections. Those who donate in February will receive a $5 Amazon.com gift card via email. Please schedule an appointment using the Red Cross Blood Donor app, visiting www.Red Cross.org, or calling 1-800-733-2767.
