Help Move the Bill: The Power of Advocacy

🎵 “I’m just a bill. Yes, I’m only a bill. And I’m sitting here on Capitol Hill…”🎵

Just like Bill in Schoolhouse Rock, legislation affecting veterans doesn’t move forward on its own – it needs people willing to speak up.

In July, the VFW demonstrated the power of advocacy during debate over H.R. 9237, Taking Care of America’s Veterans Act. While supporting many important provisions – including the Major Richard Starr Act and expanded protections for veterans and surviving families – the VFW opposed funding those improvements by reducing earned disability compensation for future veterans with service-connected tinnitus and sleep apnea.

Thousands of veterans and supporters raised their voices through Action Corps emails, phone calls, meetings, social media, and a national press conference on Capitol Hill. The result? After the Congressional debate intensified, the House consideration of the bill was postponed – a powerful reminder that when the veteran community speaks with one voice, Congress listens.

As members of the VFW Auxiliary, we can help “Bill” find his voice. Every Action Corp email you send, every phone call you make, every conversation you have with an elected official, and every veteran issue you share with your community helps move legislation one step closer to protecting those who served. Advocacy isn’t about politics – it’s about keeping our nation’s promises to veterans and their families.

How can you be an MVP and Help Move Bill This Month?

M – Make a Difference: Learn the legislative issues affecting veterans.

V – Value Every Veteran: Remember every legislative decision impacts veterans and their families.

P – Participate:

• Sign up for VFW Action Corps Weekly if you haven’t already.

• Meet with your legislators or attend a Legislative Day.

• Encourage others to become advocates for veterans.

One voice may seem small, but through The Power of One, it becomes thousands of voices united for a purpose. Together, we can help change the course of legislation, continue Serving America’s Heroes, and ensure the voices of our veterans are heard – from our hometowns all the way to the halls of Congress.

Angie Lacy

Legislative Chairman