VFW Action Corps Weekly
VFW Meets with Acting Undersecretary of Benefits: VFW National Veterans Service Director Michael Figlioli met with Acting Undersecretary of Benefits Margarita Devlin along with partner veterans service organizations to hear updates on Veterans Benefits Administration operations and programs. Topics discussed were VA automation efforts, rating schedule changes still in review and benefits such as education and adaptive housing. VA staffing and claims quality were among other topics addressed. Figlioli reiterated that positive outcomes for veterans and their families are a top priority, and the VFW is willing to collaborate with partners and VA leadership to ensure this.
Upcoming VFW Washington Conference: The VFW conference in Washington, D.C., will take place March 1-4. Hundreds of attendees will make sure veterans’ voices are heard on Capitol Hill. Our National Legislative Committee members will lead their delegations, some including the 2025/2026 VFW-SVA Fellows, in meetings with their members of Congress and staffers. VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore will testify before a joint hearing of the Senate and House Committees on Veterans’ Affairs on Tuesday, March 3, at 10:00 a.m. EST, to present our legislative priorities.
Defense Authorization Improves Transition Data Sharing: The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 that is now Public Law 119-60 includes a VFW-supported provision to improve information sharing between the Department of Defense and state veteran agencies for separating and retiring service members. Section 573, championed by Sen. Angus King, I-Maine, updates existing law to make the transfer of contact information an opt-out process, ensuring veterans are automatically connected to state veteran agencies unless they choose otherwise. The shared information may be used only to connect veterans with benefits or services and strengthens privacy and cybersecurity safeguards. This change supports a smoother transition to civilian life and access to earned benefits.
Access Vet Center Mental Health Counseling: Vet Centers offer free and confidential mental health and readjustment counseling in communities across the United States and its territories. While widely known as a resource for veterans, they also assist eligible service members and families. Available services include individual and group therapy, family and bereavement counseling, and referral assistance. Learn more.