We cluster and summarize veteran-related coverage across the U.S., then surface what’s most active right now.
Several high-profile military veterans currently serving in Congress have announced they will not seek re-election in 2026. They are stepping down due to frustrations with increasing political polarization, internal party divides, and what they describe as a "plain nastiness" in Washington, D.C., impacting their ability to serve effectively.
The VA has awarded $77 million in grants for Fiscal Year 2025 to establish the first state veterans cemetery in Alaska and expand 19 others nationwide. This significant investment will ensure more veterans and their families have access to honorable burial grounds. The Alaska cemetery alone is projected to serve 12,000 veterans.
Effective February 9, 2026, the VA will stop approving most new need-based apportionments of veterans' benefits, shifting these decisions to state family courts. While the VA will no longer redirect a portion of your benefits to dependents based on financial need, apportionments will still be allowed in specific situations such as incarceration or institutionalization.
- A Florida Congressman introduces legislation to safeguard veterans' pensions during emergencies. - The bill aims to prevent veterans from losing retirement benefits due to unforeseen events. - Enhances financial security and support for veterans facing emergencies.
- Cobb County commission allocates additional funds for veterans memorial construction. - Funding increase aims to honor and recognize veterans' service. - Project highlights community commitment to supporting veterans.
This article, by Pilar Schiavo, explores how financial interests and political decisions can negatively impact veterans. It sheds light on the systemic issues where money and politics may undermine the support and services crucial for the veteran community.
This article examines the concept of the 'American Dream' for veterans, suggesting a 'broken bargain' where the promises made to those who served are not being fully realized. It serves as a call to action to address systemic issues impacting veterans' post-service lives and opportunities.
Local township officials have expressed concerns regarding a proposed plan for the DJ Jacobetti Veteran Home. Veterans should be aware of these discussions, as they may impact the facility and the services it provides to residents.
Orleans County supports a new New York bill that would exempt qualifying veterans with 100% service-connected disability from local property taxes. While implementation details are still being clarified, the exemption is anticipated to take effect for the 2027 tax roll. Veterans with questions are encouraged to contact the Orleans County Veteran Service Agency for more information.
Starting in 2026, VetCert becomes mandatory for veteran-owned businesses seeking federal contracts, particularly VA set-asides. This SBA verification system is crucial for VOSBs and SDVOSBs to access billions in contract opportunities, requiring timely certification or re-certification through the VetCert portal.
A Trump administration policy largely banned abortion services at VA facilities, reversing a previous Biden-era allowance. Under this change, VA hospitals can now only provide abortions in narrowly defined, life-threatening emergencies, removing prior exceptions for rape and incest. This policy affects veterans and their dependents nationwide, even in states where abortion is otherwise legal.
The House VA Committee has postponed a vote on a bill (H.R. 6047) that proposed increasing VA home loan fees for veterans and active-duty personnel. This delay comes after strong opposition from lenders and other groups who argue the fee hikes would make homeownership less affordable, even though the bill aims to fund other vital veteran benefits.
Nevada Senator Catherine Cortez Masto has introduced new legislation aimed at improving healthcare services for veterans. This bill seeks to enhance the quality and accessibility of medical care available to those who have served.
Marquette Township officials are raising concerns about the proposed pathway plan for the new DJ Jacobetti Veteran Home facility. They advocate for an 8-foot-wide path to better accommodate veterans using wheelchairs, families with bikes, and other pedestrians. Township Manager Jon Kangas hopes to reach an agreement with Michigan Veteran Homes officials to ensure the facility is accessible for all.
VA Secretary Doug Collins announced a major overhaul of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) to improve veteran care by streamlining operations and reducing administrative roles. The plan aims to centralize support, allowing hospitals and clinics to focus more on patients, though some critics worry about potential staffing shortages. Collins emphasizes that the reorganization will lead to better service quality and more efficient use of resources.
The Maine Hire-A-Vet campaign has successfully placed over 2,200 veterans in well-paying jobs since its 2015 inception, recently achieving its 2025 goal of 100 hires in 100 days. This state-led initiative, supported by Gov. Janet Mills and numerous employers, highlights a strong commitment to veteran employment and has led to national recognition for several Maine job centers.
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds is committed to supporting the state's veteran community. This initiative focuses on providing essential services and resources to Iowans who have honorably served our country.
The VA is urgently enhancing its messaging to address the often-unseen causes behind veterans' struggles. This renewed communication effort aims to provide better support by shedding light on the underlying factors impacting veteran well-being.
Governor Kristi Noem is being questioned about the case of a Purple Heart Army veteran from Los Angeles who reportedly self-deported. This situation brings attention to the unique challenges immigrant veterans may face after serving the U.S. military.
The Trump administration has officially ended access to abortion services for veterans through the Department of Veterans Affairs. This policy change means the VA will no longer provide or cover abortion procedures for eligible veterans. Veterans seeking these services will need to explore other options outside of VA healthcare.
The U.S. Senate has taken a significant vote aimed at enhancing the services available to veterans. This legislative action reflects ongoing efforts in Congress to strengthen support and address the needs of the veteran community.
The U.S. Senate has passed legislation introduced by Senator Schatz aimed at expanding services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs. This bill seeks to improve access and availability of VA services for veterans nationwide.
- Military.com reports alleged capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. - No official confirmation at this time. - Potential impact on regional stability and US-Venezuela relations.
- UPS, banks, post offices, and FedEx may have altered hours on Veterans Day. - Check specific service schedules to avoid disruptions. - Essential services might remain open, but availability varies. - Plan ahead for deliveries and banking needs on Veterans Day.
- Explosions reported in Caracas amid US military operation. - US forces successfully capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. - Situation indicates a significant geopolitical event.
- Review of the expanded risks and benefits of GLP-1 agents in 2025. - Highlights both therapeutic potential and safety concerns. - Important for veterans considering or using these agents.
- Trump hints at Cuba's role after Maduro's removal. - Focus on regional political shifts and implications. - Comments suggest continued US engagement in Latin America politics.
- Protesters in Dallas rally against U.S. military intervention in Venezuela - Part of a nationwide movement urging diplomatic solutions - Demonstrators advocate for peaceful resolution over military action
- Gov. Morrisey appoints new members to WV Veterans Council and Board of Pharmacy - Strengthening veteran representation and healthcare oversight - Appointments aim to improve veteran services and pharmacy regulations in West Virginia
- US authorities have removed panels honoring Black WWII soldiers buried in the Netherlands. - The decision has sparked anger and controversy among veterans and advocates. - The panels aimed to honor the contributions of Black soldiers in the war. - The removal raises questions about recognition and historical memory.
- The Department of Veterans Affairs has enforced an immediate ban on abortion access for veterans. - The policy change impacts reproductive healthcare services for veteran beneficiaries. - Details on the reasons or legal context behind the ban are not specified. - The move has sparked debate among veterans and advocacy groups.
- Advocates are urging the FDA to approve psychedelic therapies for veterans. - The treatments aim to address mental health issues like PTSD. - Supporters believe psychedelics could offer a new path to recovery. - The push highlights growing interest in alternative mental health options for veterans.
- Senator Schatz co-authors legislation to enhance VA services for veterans. - Focus on veterans in Freely Associated States. - Bipartisan effort to improve veteran support and resources. - Aims to address service gaps for veterans outside mainland US.
