This spring, MOAA members contacted all 535 members of Congress during the association's annual Advocacy in Action event, conducting more than 235 meetings and sending over 7,500 letters. Due to COVID-19 restrictions and the challenges of security on Capitol Hill, MOAA members met with their elected officials either in face-to-face or virtual meetings.  

MOAA’s three legislative priorities were supporting the Major Richard Star Act, supporting the Stop Copay Overpay Act; and ensuring a competitive military pay raise.

Why get involved with Advocacy in Action? Volunteers are well trained to understand the process of setting up meetings and communicating with elected officials as well as having a better understanding of legislation. In addition, participation cultivates relationships with staffers and members of Congress from your district and state. The experience you gain is beneficial to help support other legislation as a constituent or with a group to help improve survivor benefits.

Military survivors are the stakeholders to the legislation at large. Congress continuously adjusts military survivor benefits. It is important surviving spouse members exercise their rights to educate staffers and members of Congress and remain vigilant to protect and improve survivor benefits. MOAA headquarters’ staff does an outstanding job educating members so they can participate in grassroots advocacy efforts.

Here are some ways to contribute and keep MOAA’s priorities on Congress’ radar:

• Send pre-written letters to Capitol Hill using MOAA’s Legislative Action Center.
• Call elected officials using MOAA’s direct line to the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at 1-866-272-6622.
• Engage with congressional members via social media, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
• Stay current with MOAA’s legislative efforts and subscribe to The MOAA Newsletter. Check your MOAA’s newsletter subscription preferences at this link.
• Customize your letters and conversations with elected officials; embed a personal story.

Congress will act only if they are inspired by their voters. Join MOAA’s effort to help improve benefits for military, veterans, retirees, family, and survivors.

Read past Surviving Spouse Corners.