If the Take Care of America’s Veterans Act does not pass, veterans programs stand to lose up to $58 billion, National Commander Wiley writes.
Dear American Legion Family members and friends,
The Take Care of America’s Veterans Act (TCAVA) is really a $58 billion proposition.
If the legislation, which includes more than 60 veterans-related bills, does not get approved by Congress, veterans stand to lose up to $58 billion in programs, benefits and other matters.
Just like when we were in the military, this is a case of “Use it or lose it.”
Let me explain.
The VA has proposed a rule which estimates say will result in somewhere between $19 billion and $58 billion being diverted from veteran benefits to the U.S. Treasury.
The American Legion has objected to this rule change. Despite our best efforts, the VA has not withdrawn this proposed rule.
That means if we don’t act, billions of dollars will go from supporting veterans to funding other causes.
The American Legion is among a coalition of 23 veteran organizations that wrote to the leaders of Congress, advocating to pass TCAVA and keep those tens of billions of dollars for veterans. (Read the letter here.)
Let me be clear. We are not trading veterans benefits.
We are using up to $58 billion to help our brothers and sisters, rather than lose it.
That’s it — use it or lose it.
And that is why The American Legion supports the Take Care of America's Veterans Act. This legislation combines more than 60 bills, most of which The American Legion supports.
It expands suicide prevention.
It improves care for traumatic brain injuries.
It offers relief for combat-injured retirees through the Major Richard Star Act.
It gives real support for the family caregivers who hold our wounded together.
If the Take Care of America's Veterans Act does not pass in its current form, none of these reforms will happen.
That is something The American Legion won’t stand for.
And neither should you.
I recommend reviewing the facts about this legislation, understanding the Legion’s process and encouraging your members of Congress to support TCAVA. Visit this special web page for those resources and more.
Dan K. Wiley
Nation Commander
The American Legion
- Legislative