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Legislative Affairs
federal and State
Overview
Each year, VCOC actively advocates legislatively. At the State Level, VCOC participates in the annual Joint Leadership Council Day in Richmond, and is a member of the Virginia Joint Leadership Council (JLC). At the Federal Level, VCOC particpates in the annual MOAA National Advocacy in Action, Washington, D.C.
State
From the Virginia Department of Veterans Service Website: "The mission of the Joint Leadership Council of Veterans Service Organizations (the JLC) is to provide advice and assistance to the Governor, General Assembly and the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) on matters of concern to the veterans community and provides a conduit of information to and from the veterans service organizations on policy and legislation, pending and enacted, as well as information on existing services."
The JLC is composed of one representative from each qualifying veterans service organization (VSO), to be appointed by the Governor, and the Commissioner of the Department of Veterans Services and the Chairman of the Board of Veterans Services and the Veterans Services Foundation or their designees, who shall serve as nonvoting ex officio members. COL Monti Zimmerman, USA (Ret) is the VCOC JLC representative, LtCol John Down, USAF (Ret) is JLC Alternate Representative. DVS Homepage, view here: DVS
In Reminder
In reminder, MOAA is exempt from federal taxation under Sec. 501(c)(19) of the Internal Revenue Code. As such, MOAA and its affiliates must avoid engaging in partisan political activities. View guidance here: MOAA Guidance on Partisan Political Activities
VCOC Legislative Advocacy 2023
Federal
MOAA Advocacy in Action 2023 was an in-person event, Wednesday, April 26, coinciding with the Board of Directors Meeting the week of April 24, at the Hyatt Regency, Crystal City, Virginia. The MOAA Awards ceremony included presentation of the Arthur Marix Award at the Reserve Officer Association, DC on 25 April.
MOAA’s Priorities for 2023:
Pay Full Housing Costs for Servicemembers
Restore the TRICARE Pharmacy Network
View the MOAA Take Action Center here: MOAA Take Action Center
State
For 2023, The lead Virginia Council Joint Leadership Council initiative is JLC 2023-01, which is Expand Tax Relief for Surviving Spouses of Military Service Members to also include “Died in the Line-of-Duty”. VCOC Third Vice President and Legislative Committee Chair COL Monti Zimmerman, USA (Ret) is leading co-sponsorship of a constitutional amendment JLC 2023-01.
View the Virginia Joint Leadership Council Legislative Policy Initiatives for 2023 below.
Virginia General Assembly Update 2023
COL Monti Zimmerman, USA (Ret) VCOC Legislative Affairs Chair
The session ends on Saturday February 25. We have several pieces of veteran focused legislation that have passed the House and Senate so far. Hotlink to matrix is below . Red means the bill failed. Green means it succeeded, white and green or grey means it is on-going but expected to pass.
JLC initiative #4 Elimination of spousal burial fees for military spouses.
JLC initiative #6 Free entry to State Parks for members of the Virginia National Guard
Other legislation:Military Police authority to act as Peace Officers in the State of Virginia to serve search warrants jointly with a Virginia Law Enforcement Officer.
Mental Health Services Liaisons at the Virginia Department of Veteran Services.
A study to create a strategic plan for the Virginia Department of Veteran Services.
Licensure of professional counselors Compact with member states
Virginia Department of Veteran Services disclosure of services (paid lawyers must provide notice to their clients that they can get the same services for free).
Special license plates for women veterans.
Special license plates for unremarried surviving spouses.
Requirements that disabled military veterans receive a decision in writing of their qualifying or not for property tax relief.
Virginia Department of Veteran Services providing a military spouse liaison for mental health services
Virginia Department of Veteran Services to contract with hospitals to provide PTSD/TBI treatment.
Virginia Department of Veteran Services to contract with hospitals to provide hyperbaric oxygen treatment.
Pending but likely to succeed:
JLC initiative#1 Constitutional amendment for surviving spouses of those who died on active duty.
JLC initiative#5 Income subtraction for members of the Virginia National Guard Increase-in conference.
Tuition grants at institutions of higher education for members of the Virginia National Guard.
Flight training programs to encourage veterans to become pilot.
JLC initiative #4 Elimination of spousal burial fees for military spouses.
JLC initiative #6 Free entry to State Parks for members of the Virginia National Guard
Other legislation:Military Police authority to act as Peace Officers in the State of Virginia to serve search warrants jointly with a Virginia Law Enforcement Officer.
Mental Health Services Liaisons at the Virginia Department of Veteran Services.
A study to create a strategic plan for the Virginia Department of Veteran Services.
Licensure of professional counselors Compact with member states
Virginia Department of Veteran Services disclosure of services (paid lawyers must provide notice to their clients that they can get the same services for free).
Special license plates for women veterans.
Special license plates for unremarried surviving spouses.
Requirements that disabled military veterans receive a decision in writing of their qualifying or not for property tax relief.
Virginia Department of Veteran Services providing a military spouse liaison for mental health services
Virginia Department of Veteran Services to contract with hospitals to provide PTSD/TBI treatment.
Virginia Department of Veteran Services to contract with hospitals to provide hyperbaric oxygen treatment.
Pending but likely to succeed:
JLC initiative#1 Constitutional amendment for surviving spouses of those who died on active duty.
JLC initiative#5 Income subtraction for members of the Virginia National Guard Increase-in conference.
Tuition grants at institutions of higher education for members of the Virginia National Guard.
Flight training programs to encourage veterans to become pilot.
Click on below hotlink to view status of Veterans Legislation in the Virginia General Assembly :
Status of Military and Veteran Bills in the Virginia General Assembly as of February 17, 2023
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Above: Surviving Spouse Kristen Fenty, Col Monti ZImmerman, Senator Jeremy McPike, SJ 231 Sponsor, Surviving Spouse Traci Voelke, Surviving Spouse Erica Meadows
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Aboved: Surviving Spouse Kristen Fenty, Col Monti ZImmerman, Senator Jeremy McPike, SJ 231 Sponsor, Surviving Spouse Traci Voelke, Surviving Spouse Erica Meadows
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Above: Vote for passage of SJ 231 Constitutional Amendment to provide property tax relief for surviving spouses of military members who died on active duty.
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Above: Virginia Council of Chapters is recognized for legislative advocacy accomplisment by State Senator Bryce Reeves (R 17th): VCOC Legislative Committee Chair and VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR, Virginia Senate, Regular Session, 23 January 2023. Picture taken by State Senator Jeremy McPike (D 29th). View the live video here: Virginia Senate Live Session Video Stream
Central Virginia Chapter Visits with Delegate Rob Bell (R 58th)
LtCol John Down, USAF (Ret)
Col Dan Moy, USAF (Ret) and myself visited with our local delegate Rob Bell on Thursday afternoon, January 5, 2023, to advocate for the six Joint Leadership Council (JLC) initiatives. Delegate Bell represents the 58th District in Virginia. Most members of the Central Virginia Chapter (CVC) reside in that district. Delegate Bell’s committee assignments include Courts of Justice which he chairs; Health, Welfare and Institutions; and Rules.
Dan Moy presented an overview of our purpose and the objectives, and I presented some details as to each of the objectives. We reviewed each, one by one, and sought Delegate Bell’s support for each. Dan mentioned that the JLC prioritized each initiative in December, and I stated that I participated in that prioritization on behalf of MOAA. We used that prioritized list to provide a “map” for our discussions. In reviewing that list, we also mentioned which ones had Governor Youngkin’s advance support.
Those three initiatives are the following:
a. JLC 2023-03: Removal of Age Requirement for Income Tax Subtraction. Would eliminate age 55 to gain an exemption of military retirement income from Virginia state income tax.b. JLC 2023-04: Increase General Fund (GF) for State Veterans Cemeteries and thereby Eliminate Spouse Burial Fees of $400.c. JLC 2023-05: Virginia National Guard Free or Reduced Fee Admission to State Parks.
We noted that our top JLC priority is one which will require a state constitutional amendment to change the language for spouse tax relief conditions from Armed Forces member “killed in action” to “killed on active duty.” Estimates are that about 211 spouses are currently affected. This one has significant bi-partisan support lined up to possibly include state senators McPike (D), Reeves (R), and DeSteph (R) along with delegates Tran (D) and McGuire (R). More support hopefully expected when the General Assembly convenes in January.
We reviewed the balance of the initiatives to include JLC 2023 -02 which requests a Real Property Tax Exemption Effective Date, and JLC 2023-06 which benefits the Virginia National Guard through Income Tax Exemption, to be raised from $3,000 to $6,000 and grade limit raised from O-3 to O-5. Dan provided insight into JLC 2023-02, and we both commented on JLC 2023- 06 which MOAA co-sponsored with the Virginia NG.
Delegate Bell took the time to explain how things are going to work and the limited time allotted during the session to get things done. He noted a filing limit of about 10-15 bills and briefly explained how that process works. He said he had 50-60 proposed bills, but that number will be reduced during the process. He also explained that any bills that affect taxation (example: JLC 2023-06) would be addressed by the Finance committees in the House and Senate. Non-taxation bills are addressed by the Appropriations committees. Delegate Bell is willing to vote for each of these initiatives as bills, but he is not going to be a patron or co-patron.
Richmond Area Chapter Joins Virginia Lt. Gov. Winsome Sears at 12th Annual Military Appreciation Night
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Pictured above: Richmond Area Chapter President COL Mark Rich, USA (Ret), VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) and six members of the RACMOAA Chapter join Virginia Lt. Gov. Winsome Sears at the Virginia General Assembly Military and Veterans Caucus 12th Annual Military Appreciation Night, Virginia War Memorial, 16 February 2023.
A WORLD OF FEDERAL AND STATE LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY
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State and Federal Legislators
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State Legislators Federal Legislators
Click below for U.S. Senators listing:
Senators
Click below for Representatives listing:
Representatives
MOAA Advocacy in Action 2021
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VCOC Chapters actively participated in MOAA Advocacy in Action 2021. With the ongoing pandemic, advocacy for 2021 was once again virtual. The top three issues for 2021 were Comprehensive Toxic Exposure Reform, TRICARE Young Adult Parity and Basic Needs Allowance. In addition, the Maj Richard Star Act was advocated.
VCOC MOAA Advocacy in Action 2021 virtual appointments listed below:
22 April 2021: Representatives Elaine Luria, (VA 02) and Michael Waltz (FL 06). Press Conference in support of H.R. 475 the Health Care Fairness for Military Families Act of 2021. VCOC attendee: VCOC Vice President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret).
12 May 2021: Office of Senator Tim Kaine (D Va). VCOC Vice President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) and VCOC President Col Boyd Nix, USAF (Ret).
9 May 2021: Office of Senator Mark Warner (D Va). VCOC Vice President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) and VCOC President Col Boyd Nix, USAF (Ret).
20 May 2021: Offices of Representatives Jennifer Wexton (VA 10), Don Beyer (VA 08), Gerry Connolly (VA 11). Mt. Vernon Chapter: CDR John Prevar, USN (Ret).
25 May 2021: Office of Congressman Bobby Scott (VA 03). Portsmouth Chapter Team: COL Hal Hostetler, USA (Ret), COL Bill Smith, USA (Ret),
MAJ Sherry Ferki, USA (Ret), CWO3 Karl Wilson, USA (Ret).25 May 2021: Representative Elaine Luria, (VA 02). VCOC Vice President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret), Col Boyd Nix, USAF (Ret), MOAA Vice President, Government Relations Col Dan Merry, USAF (Ret), Ms. Nyssa Thompson, MOAA Chapter and Council Support.
27 May 2021: Office of Congressman Rob Wittman (VA 01). Richmond Area Chapter Team: CAPT Mary Lou Wassel, USN (Ret), COL Mark Rich, USA (Ret), LTC Craig Pinsker, USA (Ret), COL Vince Cammarata. USA (Ret).
27 May 2021: Office of Congressman Bob Good (VA 05). Central Virginia Chapter Team: Col Dan Moy, USA (Ret), LtCol John Down, USAF (Ret).
1 June 2021: Representative Morgan Griffith (VA 09). Southwest Virginia Chapter Team: CDR Lee Ensley, USNR (Ret), LTCOL Bob Habermann, USA (Ret).
4 June 2021: Representatives Abigail Spanberger (VA 07) and Don McEachin (VA 04). Richmond Area Chapter Team: CAPT Mary Lou Wassel, USN (Ret).
MOAA VCOC Advocacy in Action 2021 featured screenshots and pictures (below):
25 May 2021: Representative Elaine Luria, (VA 02). VCOC Vice President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret), Col Boyd Nix, USAF (Ret), MOAA Vice President, Government Relations Col Dan Merry, USAF (Ret), Ms. Nyssa Thompson, MOAA Chapter and Council Support.
27 May 2021: Congressman Rob Wittman (VA 01), Richmond Area Chapter Team: CAPT Mary Lou Wassel, USN (Ret), joined by COL Mark Rich, USA (Ret), LTC Craig Pinsker, USA (Ret) and COL Vince Cammarata, USA (Ret).
1 June 2021: Congressman Morgan Griffith (VA 09). Southwest Virginia Chapter Team: CDR Lee Ensley, USNR (Ret), LTCOL Bob Habermann, USA (Ret).
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VCOC MOAA Advocacy in Action 2022
VCOC Chapters actively participated in MOAA Advocacy in Action 2022. With the ongoing pandemic, AiA 2022 was once again virtual.
Legislative Affairs Advocacy Meeting with District and Capitol Hill Offices of Representative Elaine Luria (VA 02)
On 1 December 2021, VCOC and HRCMOAA Legislative Affairs Chair CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) met with Dr. Charles Stuppard, District Director, Representative Elaine Luria (VA 02). In a follow on meeting on 16 December 2021, CDR Smith met with John Brodtke, Legislative Director for Representative Luria.
The purpose of both meetings was to review MOAA Legislative Affairs topics. The District Office meeting also included time with Mr. Drew Lumpkin, District Director, Senator Mark Warner (D VA) and Gene Garland, Military Outreach Coordinator, Senator Warner.
Left photo below, left to right: Dr. Stuppard, Mr. Lumpkin, CDR Smith, Mr. Garland. Right photo below, Mr. Brodtke, CDR Smith.
The purpose of both meetings was to review MOAA Legislative Affairs topics. The District Office meeting also included time with Mr. Drew Lumpkin, District Director, Senator Mark Warner (D VA) and Gene Garland, Military Outreach Coordinator, Senator Warner.
Left photo below, left to right: Dr. Stuppard, Mr. Lumpkin, CDR Smith, Mr. Garland. Right photo below, Mr. Brodtke, CDR Smith.
VCOC Previews MOAA’s Legislative Priorities 2022 With Offices of Senator Tim Kaine (D VA) and Mark Warner (D VA)
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VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) previewed the MOAA Legislative Priorities 2022 with the Offices of Senator Tim Kaine (D VA), 21 January 2022 and Senator Mark Warner (D VA), 24 January 2022. Present at the Zoom Virtual meeting with the Office of Senator Kaine was Regional Director Diane Kaufman, Military Outreach Coordinator Janet Lomax and National Security Legislative Correspondent Ausan Al-Eryani (pictured above, bottom). Present at the Zoom Virtual meeting with the Office of Senator Warner was Military Outreach Coordinator Gene Garland (pictured above top) .
With interactive question and answer dialogue during both meetings, the MOAA Legislative Priorities for 2022 previewed follow:
-Sustain pay raises and adequate BAH for the troops and COLA raises for retirees.-Ensure the Coast Guard, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and Public Health Service continue to receive pay during a government shutdown.
-Protect the value of the military health care benefit.
-Protect the Military Health System pharmacy benefit, and achieve flexibility in TRICARE pharmacy copays.
-Address barriers to accessing care within the MHS, including TRICARE coverage gaps and mental health care access challenges.
-Protect family support programs, and ensure military-provided services (housing, PCS, child care, youth programs, financial counseling) are readily available and meet standards for quality and costs.
-Achieve equity of benefits, protections, and administrative support for Guard/Reserve members consistent with their active-duty counterparts.-Sustain Veterans Health Administration (VHA) foundational missions and services.
-Reform the presumptive process to support veterans claiming service-connected disabilities for toxic exposures.-Achieve concurrent receipt of service-earned retirement pay and VA disability pay.
-Protect full military honors and burial at Arlington National Cemetery for those currently eligible.Improve survivors’ benefits.
-Support a quality transition experience from active duty to veteran status for all servicemembers.-Recognize the pandemic continues to affect the lives of our servicemembers.
With the second session of the 117th Congress, our VCOC Legislative Affairs team will continue support of the momentum gained during 2021. With all co-sponsors on Federal level legislation carrying over, the VCOC looks forward to further advocating with our Virginia Delegation during MOAA Advocacy in Action 2022.
VCOC MOAA Advocacy in Action 2022 appointments, virtual unless noted otherwise, listed below.
21 January 2022, 24 January 2022: Offices of Senator Tim Kaine (D VA), and Senator Mark Warner (D VA). VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) previewed the MOAA Legislative Priorities 2022.
11 April 2022: Office of Senator Tim Kaine (D Va). VCOC President Linc Smith, USNR (Ret), MOAA Member Services Representative Ms. Libby Michael.
12 April 2022: Office of Representative Don McEachin (VA 04). Richmond Area Chapter Team: CAPT Mary Lou Wassel, USN (Ret), COL Mark Rich, USA (Ret), LTC Craig Pinsker, USA (Ret).
18 April 2022: Office of Senator Mark Warner (D Va). VCOC Vice President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret), VCOC Secretary LtCol John Down, USAF (Ret), HRCMOAA Member CAPT Bookie Boland, USN (Ret), MOAA Member Services Representatives Ms. Libby Michael and Ms. Kristian Spraggins.
21 April 2022: Office of Representative Abigail Spanberger (VA 07). Richmond Area Chapter Team: CAPT Mary Lou Wassel, USN (Ret), COL Mark Rich, USA (Ret), LTC Craig Pinsker, USA (Ret).
21 April 2022: Office of Representative Gerry Connolly (VA 11). Mt. Vernon Chapter Team: CDR John Prevar, USN (Ret), MOAA Member Services Representatives Ms. Libby Michael and Ms. Kristian Spraggins.
21 April 2022: Office of Representative Don Beyer (VA 08). Mt. Vernon Chapter Team: CDR John Prevar, USN (Ret), VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret), MOAA Member Services Representatives Ms. Libby Michael and Ms. Kristian Spraggins.
22 April 2022: Office of Representative Jennifer Wexton (VA 10). Phonecon, Mt. Vernon Chapter Team: CDR John Prevar, USN (Ret).
23 April 2022: Office of Representative Rob Wittman (VA 01). RACMOAA Team: In person meeting, Veterans of Foreign War, Mechanicsville, Va, CAPT Mary Lou Wassel, USN (Ret), CAPT Hardy Josephson, USN, LCDR Wayne Sine, USN (Ret).
25 April 2022: Office of Representative Elaine Luria (VA 02), VCOC Vice President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret).
5 May 2022: Office of Representative Bobby Scott (VA 03). PACMOAA Team: Chapter President COL Bill Smith, USA (Ret), MAJ Sherry Ferki, USA (Ret), COL Hal Hostetler, USA (Ret).
12 May 2022: Office of Representative Ben Cline (VA 06). Heritage Chapter Team: Maj. Angela McConnell, USA/USAFR (Ret).
19 May 2022: Office of Representative Bob Good (VA 05). Central Virginia Chapter Team: LtCol John Down, USAF (Ret).
8 July 2022: Office of Representative Morgan Griffith (VA 09). Southwest Virginia Chapter Team: CAPT Matt Haag, USN (Ret), LTC Dan Karnes, USA (Ret), LTC USA (Ret) Bob Haberman, USA (Ret), COL John Miller, USA (Ret).
4 August 2022: Representative Ben Cline (VA 06), Southwest Virginia Chapter, LTC Dan Karnes, USA (Ret), LTC Steve Jamison, USA (Ret), CAPT Gary Powers, USN (Ret).
MOAA VCOC Advocacy in Action 2022 featured screenshots and pictures, top to bottom, below:
21 April 2022: Mr. Andrew Stern, Office of Representative Gail Spanberger (VA 07), Richmond Area Chapter Team: CAPT Mary Lou Wassel, USN (Ret), COL Mark Rich, USA (Ret), LTC Craig Pinsker, USA (Ret), Mr. Wayne Sine.
21 April 2022: Mr. Matt McLaughlin, Office of Representatives Don Beyer (VA 08), Mt. Vernon Chapter Team: CDR John Prevar, USN (Ret), VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret), MOAA Member Services Representatives Ms. Libby Michael and Ms. Krtistian Spraggins.
18 April 2022: Mr. Gene Garland, Office of Senator Mark Warner (D Va), VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret), VCOC Secretary LtCol John Down, USAF (Ret), HRCMOAA Member CAPT Bookie Boland, USN (Ret), MOAA Member Services Representatives Ms. Libby Michael and Ms. Krtistian Spraggins.
25 April 2022: Mr. Caleb Smith, Office of Representative Elaine Luria (VA 02), VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret).
4 August 2022: Representative Ben Cline (VA 06), Southwest Virginia Chapter, LTC Dan Karnes, USA (Ret), LTC Steve Jamison, USA (Ret), CAPT Gary Powers, USN (Ret).
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South West Virginia Chapter Meets with Congressman Morgan Griffith
On Friday July 8, 2022 representatives from the Military Officers Association of America, SouthWest Virginia Chapter (MOAA SWVA)met with Congressman Morgan Griffith and a member of his staff to discuss MOAA legislative priorities. The SWVA delegation members were Matthew Haag, President, Dan Karnes, Vice President, Robert Habermann, Legislative Affairs, and John Miller, Director. MOAA priorities discussed were the Maj. Richard Star Act which is moving forward as HR 1282 and also amendment 98 to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), the Honoring our PACT Act, and while not a MOAA priority at this time ensuring military medical benefits are not being reduced.
Congressman Griffith was ready for us and after brief introductions we moved to a conference room and got down to business. We let him know that while the SWVA Chapter has 128 members split between his district and Representative Cline's district, and that many of our members are also members of the American Legion, VFW, AUSA, DAV etc. and that his support would get out to more Veterans than just our group.
Congressman Griffith was not aware of what was contained in the Star Act so the delegation informed him this legislation would allow all military retirees to be able to attain concurrent receipt of retired pay and VA benefits if they met the disability requirements. Currently only those members who are retired and served twenty years or more are eligible for concurrent receipt. Congressman Griffith supported this legislation in concept and promised to take a hard look at it. His concerns are the cost, how it will be paid for and what other riders may be attached to the legislation but did agree that concurrent receipt should also be given to those retired for medical or other conditions that resulted in less than twenty years of military service. He did inform the delegation that if it went forward as an amendment to the NDAA he would not vote for it as he has never voted for the NDAA due to language in a specific portion that he strongly disagrees with and has not been able to get taken out of the NDAA.
The delegation also asked him about his Nay vote on the PACT act legislation. The PACT Act, which passed, addressed health care and presumption of service connection for Veterans exposed to toxic substances during military service. This legislation covers issues like burn pit exposure, deployment for specific contingency operations and those who served in specific locations on specific dates. He immediately responded that while he supported the concept of the legislation that it was to expensive and felt that the way the current bill was worded that it would extend this coverage not only to those directly involved (he supported that portion of bill) but also anyone attached to the unit (i.e. support or headquarters staffs that may not even be in country) which he believed was not right and would drive up costs. This was also the view of Representative Scott Perry (R PA) and retired Brigadier General.
Lastly the delegation asked him for his support to keep our military health care benefits. As we explained, even today if you go to a recruiter's office they will tell you one of the benefits of a military career is you can retire after twenty years at 50% and get health care benefits immediately. He agreed that the Nation has made this promise and we need to keep it.
The delegation thanked him for his time to allow us to bring our concerns to him directly. Pictured below: Southwest Virginia Chapter Team with Representative Morgan Griffith (VA 09):
Congressman Griffith was ready for us and after brief introductions we moved to a conference room and got down to business. We let him know that while the SWVA Chapter has 128 members split between his district and Representative Cline's district, and that many of our members are also members of the American Legion, VFW, AUSA, DAV etc. and that his support would get out to more Veterans than just our group.
Congressman Griffith was not aware of what was contained in the Star Act so the delegation informed him this legislation would allow all military retirees to be able to attain concurrent receipt of retired pay and VA benefits if they met the disability requirements. Currently only those members who are retired and served twenty years or more are eligible for concurrent receipt. Congressman Griffith supported this legislation in concept and promised to take a hard look at it. His concerns are the cost, how it will be paid for and what other riders may be attached to the legislation but did agree that concurrent receipt should also be given to those retired for medical or other conditions that resulted in less than twenty years of military service. He did inform the delegation that if it went forward as an amendment to the NDAA he would not vote for it as he has never voted for the NDAA due to language in a specific portion that he strongly disagrees with and has not been able to get taken out of the NDAA.
The delegation also asked him about his Nay vote on the PACT act legislation. The PACT Act, which passed, addressed health care and presumption of service connection for Veterans exposed to toxic substances during military service. This legislation covers issues like burn pit exposure, deployment for specific contingency operations and those who served in specific locations on specific dates. He immediately responded that while he supported the concept of the legislation that it was to expensive and felt that the way the current bill was worded that it would extend this coverage not only to those directly involved (he supported that portion of bill) but also anyone attached to the unit (i.e. support or headquarters staffs that may not even be in country) which he believed was not right and would drive up costs. This was also the view of Representative Scott Perry (R PA) and retired Brigadier General.
Lastly the delegation asked him for his support to keep our military health care benefits. As we explained, even today if you go to a recruiter's office they will tell you one of the benefits of a military career is you can retire after twenty years at 50% and get health care benefits immediately. He agreed that the Nation has made this promise and we need to keep it.
The delegation thanked him for his time to allow us to bring our concerns to him directly. Pictured below: Southwest Virginia Chapter Team with Representative Morgan Griffith (VA 09):
MOAA Advocacy in Action 2023
From the MOAA Homepage: More than 170 MOAA chapter members and board members from across the nation brought MOAA’s legislative message to Capitol Hill on April 26 for the organization’s annual Advocacy in Action (AiA) event. Members spent the day inside the offices of House and Senate members, informing legislators and their aides about MOAA’s top legislative priorities, including restoring the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) to 100% and preserving access to the TRICARE pharmacy network. It was the first time the event was held in person since 2019.
MOAA's annual advocacy event brought members from across the nation in contact with their lawmakers April 26 in Washington, D.C., to address critical topics on MOAA’s legislative agenda. The event marked the first in-person effort on Capitol Hill since 2019. You can still lend your voice to these efforts through MOAA's Legislative Action Center.
Have a question about MOAA legislative efforts? Contact MOAA's Member Support Center at msc@moaa.org or call (800) 234-6622. Continue to follow MOAA's Advocacy News page for ongoing updates regarding all of MOAA's legislative priorities. Click below Button to view the story.
Pictured above: MOAA members and staff pose on the steps of the Capitol in Washington, D.C., the morning of April 26, 2023, at the beginning of the annual Advocacy in Action event.
Pictured Above, left to right: Hampton Roads Chapter Surviving Spouse Barbara Smith, VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret), Aaron Reep, Defense Fellow, Rep. Rob Wittman, MOAA National Board Member Rojan Robotham, MOAA National Board Member RADM Mike Hewitt, USN (Ret), VCOC Third Vice President COL Monti Zimmerman, USA (Ret)
Pictured Above, left to right: Matt Miller, Chief of Staff, Rep. Ben Cline (VA 06), RADM Mike Hewitt, USN (Ret), VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret)
Pictured Above, left to right: VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret), Paige Schwartz, Legislative Director, Rep. Bobby Scott (VA 03), RADM Mike Hewitt, USN (Ret)
Pictured above, left to right: MOAA Chairman of the Board Gen. Gary North, USAF (Ret), Rep. Mark Takano (CA 39), MOAA President and CEO Gen. Brian Kelly, USAF (Ret), present Col. Arthur Marix Congressional Leadership Award Presentation.
Pictured above, left to right: MOAA Chairman of the Board Gen. Gary North, USAF (Ret), Senator Jon Tester (D MT), MOAA President and CEO Gen. Brian Kelly, USAF (Ret), Col. Arthur present Marix Congressional Leadership Award Presentation.
From the Virginia Delegation
Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant
From Mr. Drew Lumpkin, Regional Director, U.S. Senator Mark Warner:
I wanted to make you aware of the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program which would help eligible entities provide suicide prevention services to veterans and their families. Senator Warner was instrumental in the creation of this grant program, so we wanted to ensure Virginian veteran’s organizations were aware of this opportunity.
Purpose of the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant is as follows:
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is announcing the opportunity of funds for suicide prevention services grants under the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program (SSG Fox SPGP). The SSG Fox SPGP enables the Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention (OMHSP) within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) to provide financial assistance through a 3-year community-based grant program to eligible entities to provide, or coordinate the provision of, suicide prevention services to eligible Veterans and their families. Funding offered under this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) responds to the mounting need to reach Veterans at risk for suicide in their communities. This Notice contains information concerning the SSG Fox SPGP, the application process and the amount of funding available. Awards made for suicide prevention services grants will fund operations beginning on or around September 1, 2022.
Notice Of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) may be viewed at: Funding Opportunity: Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant
A Conversation With Congressman Rob Wittman (VA 01)
With this conversation, VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) interviews Congressman Rob Wittman (VA 01). Congressman Wittman discusses his career in Congress, following with spotlight on his work on Veterans Legislation in 2022, also the value of VCOC grass roots legislative advocacy. Click below to listen.
A Conversation With Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger (VA 07)
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With this conversation, VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) interviews Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger (VA 07). Congresswoman Spanberger discusses her career in Congress, following with spotlight on her work on Veterans Legislation, also the value of VCOC grass roots legislative advocacy, citing the power of VCOC, how the chorus of our story telling helps her in crafting Veterans Legislation.
A Conversation With Virginia State Senator Bryce Reeves (R 17th)
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With this conversation, MOAA VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) interviews Virginia State Senator Bryce Reeves (R 17th), Co-Chair of the Virginia General Assembly Military and Veterans Caucus. Senator Reeves discusses his career in the Virginia Legislature and United States Army, following with spotlight on his work on Veterans Legislation in the Virginia General Assembly, also the value of VCOC grass roots legislative advocacy.
A Conversation with Tonya Star, Surviving Spouse of MAJ Richard Star, USA (Ret)
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With this conversation, MOAA VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) interviews Tonya Star, Surviving Spouse of MAJ Richard Star, USA (Ret). Tonya spotlights her life, the Major Richard Star Act, also the value of MOAA VCOC Grass Roots Advocacy for passage of the Star Act.
Former United States Senator John Warner (R VA) Passes
Former United States Senator John Warner (R VA) , Republican U.S. Senator from Virginia from 1979 to 2009, passed on 25 May 2021. Senator Warner enlisted in the U.S. Navy at age 17 in 1945, serving during the final months of World War II. He joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1950, serving in the Korean War. He was named U.S. Secretary of the Navy in 1972, serving until 1974. He served for four terms in the U.S. Senate in from 1978 to 2008. During his tenure, the Senator Warner chaired the Senate Rules Committee and Senate Armed Forces Committee.
In April of 2007, our Virginia Council of Chapters awarded Senator Warner Legislator of the Year at the Twenty Second Annual VCOC Congressional Appreciation Luncheon. Held in the Cannon Caucus Room in the Cannon House Office Building, Senator Warner was presented VCOC’s Legislative Award in appreciation for his lifetime support of the uniformed services.
Shown below in April 2007, left to right, is COL Bill Flanagan, USA (Ret) and VCOC President, Senator John Warner and LTC Pat Green, USA (Ret) and VCOC Vice President. Senator Warner is holding the VCOC Legislative award, a plaque of postage stamps representing milestones during the Senator’s 60 years of service. To his steadfast support of the uniformed services over a lifetime, fair winds and following seas to United States Senator John Warner.
Shown below in April 2007, left to right, is COL Bill Flanagan, USA (Ret) and VCOC President, Senator John Warner and LTC Pat Green, USA (Ret) and VCOC Vice President. Senator Warner is holding the VCOC Legislative award, a plaque of postage stamps representing milestones during the Senator’s 60 years of service. To his steadfast support of the uniformed services over a lifetime, fair winds and following seas to United States Senator John Warner.
Colonel Donald B. Kaiserman, USA (Ret) Passes
Former Virginia Council of Chapters President Colonel Donald B. Kaiserman passed away on Wednesday, August 25, 2021.
Graduating from the Pingry School, New Jersey, then Bucknell University in 1955, he joined the Army flying choppers with the 80th Transportation Company and 334th United States Army Flight Detachment at Ft. Riley in Kansas and Ft. Richardson in Alaska. He retired as a Colonel from the United States Army Reserves and National Guard. He served with the Richmond Area Chapter of Military Officers Association of America , Commonwealth of Virginia Board of Veteran Services and Commonwealth of Virginia Joint Leadership Council of Veterans and Virginia War Memorial Foundation.
Col Kaiserman was VCOC President from 2012-2013. He also served as VCOC Vice Chair, Legislative Committee, MOAA Liaison to the Virginia Joint Leadership Council.
An interment service was held at 3 p.m. on Monday, September 20, at the Virginia Veterans Cemetery at Amelia. In lieu of flowers, the Kaiserman family asks donations be made to MOAA Foundation, MOAA Scholarship Fund or Parkinson's Foundation.
Virginia House Joint Resolution Number 42, commending Colonel Kaiserman, follows: Agreed to by the House of Delegates, January 29, 2016Agreed to by the Senate, February 11, 2016
WHEREAS, Colonel Donald B. Kaiserman, USA, Ret., a respected former military leader, has dedicated his life to the service of his fellow veterans and strives to maintain the Commonwealth’s reputation as one of the best states for members of the military, veterans, and their families to live; and
WHEREAS, Colonel Kaiserman has supported veterans as chair of the Virginia Board of Veterans Services and the Joint Leadership Council of Veterans Service Organizations, which facilitates cooperation between organizations and the Department of Veterans Services; and
WHEREAS, Colonel Kaiserman served as president of the Richmond Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization advocating for military families, and president of the Virginia Council of Chapters of MOAA, where he led and coordinated the Commonwealth’s 18 chapters; and
WHEREAS, at the local level, Colonel Kaiserman volunteered his time with the Fort Lee Retiree Council and currently honors the legacies of the Commonwealth’s veterans on the Board of Trustees of the Virginia War Memorial; and
WHEREAS, over the course of his career, Colonel Kaiserman has achieved success in many initiatives to support military families, and he has earned the respect of numerous members of Virginia state government and the United States Congress, including members of the Senate and House Committees on Armed Services; and
WHEREAS, with his team-based leadership style, Colonel Kaiserman has inspired countless others to support members of the military and veterans in the Commonwealth and throughout the United States; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Colonel Donald B. Kaiserman, USA, Ret., a respected veteran and a stalwart advocate for the military community in the Commonwealth; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Colonel Donald B. Kaiserman, USA, Ret., as an expression of the General Assembly’s admiration for his tireless work to honor the service and sacrifices of members of the military and veterans.
WHEREAS, Colonel Donald B. Kaiserman, USA, Ret., a respected former military leader, has dedicated his life to the service of his fellow veterans and strives to maintain the Commonwealth’s reputation as one of the best states for members of the military, veterans, and their families to live; and
WHEREAS, Colonel Kaiserman has supported veterans as chair of the Virginia Board of Veterans Services and the Joint Leadership Council of Veterans Service Organizations, which facilitates cooperation between organizations and the Department of Veterans Services; and
WHEREAS, Colonel Kaiserman served as president of the Richmond Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization advocating for military families, and president of the Virginia Council of Chapters of MOAA, where he led and coordinated the Commonwealth’s 18 chapters; and
WHEREAS, at the local level, Colonel Kaiserman volunteered his time with the Fort Lee Retiree Council and currently honors the legacies of the Commonwealth’s veterans on the Board of Trustees of the Virginia War Memorial; and
WHEREAS, over the course of his career, Colonel Kaiserman has achieved success in many initiatives to support military families, and he has earned the respect of numerous members of Virginia state government and the United States Congress, including members of the Senate and House Committees on Armed Services; and
WHEREAS, with his team-based leadership style, Colonel Kaiserman has inspired countless others to support members of the military and veterans in the Commonwealth and throughout the United States; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Colonel Donald B. Kaiserman, USA, Ret., a respected veteran and a stalwart advocate for the military community in the Commonwealth; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Colonel Donald B. Kaiserman, USA, Ret., as an expression of the General Assembly’s admiration for his tireless work to honor the service and sacrifices of members of the military and veterans.
Former United States Senator Bob Dole (R KS) Passes
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United States Senator Bob Dole, World War II veteran, Republican presidential nominee and public servant of over four decades, passed on 5 december 2021 at age 98. Less than one year ago, Senator Dole announced his being diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer.
Senator Dole served six years as an officer in the United States Army, serving as a second lieutenant in the 10th Mountain Division. During a firefight against the Germans in Bologna, Italy, in April 1945, Dole aws seriously injured by gunshot wounds from a German machine gun. Capt. Dole received two Purple Hearts along with a Bronze Star with “V” Device for his assisting a downed radioman. He served over three decades in the United States Congress from 1960 to 1996, in both the House and Senate. Throughout his political career, Dole was legendary at forging bipartisan alliances in order to enact legislation. In example, he was a major supporter of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which became law in 1990. He was a driving force to create the federal holiday honoring Dr. Martin Luther King. In March 2019, Congress unanimously passed a bill to promote Dole from captain to a colonel, with President Trump signing the bill into law the following month. Dole chaired the World War II Memorial Campaign, raising funds for the National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. Senator Dole’s service continued through his wife, Elizabeth, who established the Elizabeth Dole Foundation to empower and support military caregivers and family members in 2012. The Dole foundation formed a partnership with MOAA, producing a caregiver guide designed on the multigenerational legal and financial needs of caregivers. The Memorial Service for Senator Dole was held at Washington National Cathedral on 10 December 2021, 11:00am. MOAA Vice President Council/Chapter Affairs CAPT Jim Carman, USN (Ret), usher at the service, was joined in attendance by VCOC Vice President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret).
Senator Dole served six years as an officer in the United States Army, serving as a second lieutenant in the 10th Mountain Division. During a firefight against the Germans in Bologna, Italy, in April 1945, Dole aws seriously injured by gunshot wounds from a German machine gun. Capt. Dole received two Purple Hearts along with a Bronze Star with “V” Device for his assisting a downed radioman. He served over three decades in the United States Congress from 1960 to 1996, in both the House and Senate. Throughout his political career, Dole was legendary at forging bipartisan alliances in order to enact legislation. In example, he was a major supporter of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which became law in 1990. He was a driving force to create the federal holiday honoring Dr. Martin Luther King. In March 2019, Congress unanimously passed a bill to promote Dole from captain to a colonel, with President Trump signing the bill into law the following month. Dole chaired the World War II Memorial Campaign, raising funds for the National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. Senator Dole’s service continued through his wife, Elizabeth, who established the Elizabeth Dole Foundation to empower and support military caregivers and family members in 2012. The Dole foundation formed a partnership with MOAA, producing a caregiver guide designed on the multigenerational legal and financial needs of caregivers. The Memorial Service for Senator Dole was held at Washington National Cathedral on 10 December 2021, 11:00am. MOAA Vice President Council/Chapter Affairs CAPT Jim Carman, USN (Ret), usher at the service, was joined in attendance by VCOC Vice President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret).
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Pictured at left, CDR Smith and CAPT Carman, immediately subsequent to the service for Senator Dole at Washington National Cathedral.
View President Joesph Biden's Eulogy for Senator Dole at the service here: President Biden Eulogy, Senator Robert Dole
MOAA President and CEO Lt. Gen. Dana T. Atkins said, "Senator Dole supported U.S. servicemembers and veterans during his political career, but also made it a mission later in life. His regular appearances at the World War II Memorial, to greet his fellow comrades, were an inspiration. Senator Dole never stopped serving.”