MOAA is not sitting on its laurels during these trying times – we are out there across the nation making sure Congress hears our concerns and represents our interests through legislation being drafted as we speak.
We are off to a great start, filling appointments with legislators to share our three advocacy topics during this year’s Advocacy in Action campaign. Our councils and chapters had completed 54 meetings with legislators and staff members as of May 11, and you all have helped by providing nearly 7,200 letters encouraging support.
Given the magnitude of what lies before us – making sure all 535 congressional offices are contacted –there is still more work to do. Thankfully, we have members who are willing to stand up for those who need our support on these three points:
- Comprehensive Toxic Exposure Reform (Issue Paper | Send a Tweet)
- Parity for TRICARE Young Adults (Issue Paper | Send a Tweet)
- Basic Needs Allowance (Issue Paper | Send a Tweet)
These three advocacy topics help currently serving servicemembers and their families, as well as retirees, veterans, and their families. Our campaign is running through the month of May with plenty more to accomplish – and you can still make a significant difference from home.
In the article in that previous link, there are two key points to share. First, contact your local chapter to ensure they were able to meet with your representative and both senators. If not, please ensure they have plans to do so. You can find your local chapter at this link.
Second, take action on your own through MOAA’s Take Action Center and send your elected officials a MOAA-suggested message today:
- Urge Your Elected Officials to Support Comprehensive Toxic Exposure Reform Legislation. Comprehensive toxic exposure reform is needed to ensure we avoid the problems faced by Vietnam veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange.
- Urge Your Elected Officials to Fix the TRICARE Young Adult Coverage Gap. Military kids face many challenges, including frequent moves and separations from their servicemember parent(s). They deserve the same health care protections afforded to families on commercial health plans. The Health Care Fairness for Military Families Act would expand TRICARE eligibility to young adult dependents up to age 26, bringing TRICARE in line with commercial plan requirements.
- Ask Your Lawmakers to Support the Military Hunger Prevention Act. Food insecurity among junior servicemembers is not a new concern, but like many ongoing problems, it’s been made worse by the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. The Military Hunger Prevention Act would establish a Basic Needs Allowance (BNA) for these servicemembers, helping them overcome financial difficulties and allowing them to concentrate on their duties.
With everything going on in our crazy world, we must continue to watch out for those who are serving now, or have ever served, to make sure their needs are being met. We appreciate your service and commitment to Never Stop Serving.
