07/12/2026
🚨ANNOUNCEMENT🚨
Veterans of Foreign Wars – Department of Kansas, July 12, 2026
The Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of Kansas, will hold a rally and press conference on Thursday, July 16th at 10:00 a.m. on the south steps of the Kansas State Capitol in Topeka. This gathering brings together veterans, families, and supporters from across the state in unified opposition to U.S. House Bill 9237 – the TCAVA.
The Kansas VFW recognizes and appreciates that many provisions within H.R. 9237 are well intentioned and supportive of veterans’ needs. In fact, our organization supports most of the items contained in the bill. However, Section 108 represents a red line that must not be crossed.
We are asking Senators Marshall & Moran, Representatives Mann, Schmidt, Davids and Estes to demand that Section 108 be removed. Section 108 would codify disability rating reductions for tinnitus and sleep apnea as what could be described as a budget offset. If the legislation passes with Section 108, it would shift the financial burden onto millions of future veteran claimants. Furthermore, Section 108 would, for the first time, write the reduction of a service-connected disability rating directly into law to fund other spending. That is a dangerous precedent, not a budget line. If it stands, any rating, for any condition, can be cut whenever Washington needs an offset.
Because of this, the Kansas VFW cannot support H.R. 9237 in its current form. Section 108 must be removed for the bill to align with the values, protections, and commitments our nation owes to those who have served.
Our elected officials must carefully consider the consequences of Section 108, remove this harmful provision, and honor the contract that America made with its veterans — a contract built on service, sacrifice, and the promise that those who defend this nation will be cared for when they return home.
As an organization founded on service, sacrifice, and the defense of our nation’s most fundamental principles, the Kansas VFW believes it is our duty to speak clearly and respectfully when legislation threatens to undermine veterans’ care and benefits. Our members have earned their voices through duty and commitment, and we intend to ensure those voices are heard.
The rally will highlight the potential impacts of Section 108, share the perspectives of Kansas veterans, and call on lawmakers to reconsider provisions that weaken the support structure America’s veterans depend upon. We stand firm in advocating for policies that strengthen—not diminish—the care, benefits, and protections earned through military service.
We invite all Kansans who value veterans’ rights and wellbeing to join us on July 16th as we demonstrate Strength in Unity and reaffirm our commitment to those who have worn the uniform of the United States.
🚨 Stop by the Topeka VFW afterwards and enjoy a free lunch! 🚨
For media inquiries or additional information, please contact the Department of Kansas VFW Headquarters.
