Veterans Support Initiative

02/27/2026

Strength in numbers!

"SUMMARY: VA is rescinding the interim final rule, Evaluative Rating: Impact of Medication, published on February 17, 2026, and restoring the prior regulatory text. This rescission is effective immediately upon publication."

https://shorturl.at/Rdx07

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02/19/2026

Our voices were heard.

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Effective immediately, VA is halting enforcement of the interim final rule, Evaluative Rating: Impact of Medication.

02/19/2026

Today’s announcement from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs marks a deeply troubling shift in how we honor the sacrifices of our nation’s heroes. Under the new interim rule, veteran disability ratings will be based on how well veterans function while on medication rather than the true severity of their service-connected conditions, a change that could lower disability compensation for millions who rely on those benefits.

For too many veterans—especially those managing chronic pain, PTSD, seizures, mental health conditions, and other service-related injuries—medication isn’t a cure, it’s a lifeline. Penalizing veterans for taking the very treatments that allow them to live, work, and participate in their communities undermines the purpose of compensation that was earned through service.

Even major veteran service organizations, including the VFW, DAV, and American Legion, have raised serious concerns, emphasizing that this rule was rushed through without meaningful input from the community it affects and could unjustly reduce benefits.

At Veterans Support Initiative, we stand with veterans and their families—this change is not just a technical adjustment to regulation, it is a step backward in how we support those who have served our nation.

What veterans can do now to make their voices heard?

1. Submit comments to the Federal Register during the open public-comment period before April 20.

2. Contact your members of Congress to express your concerns and urge them to push for reversal or legislative clarification.

3. Engage with veteran service organizations (VSOs)like VFW, American Legion, DAV, and others to amplify collective advocacy.

4. Share your personal story publicly —policy decisions impact real lives, and your voice matters.

The veteran community has always shown resilience—but we must insist that the government listens before making decisions that affect compensation, quality of life, and long-term well-being.

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02/13/2026

📢 Attention job seekers! 📢

Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Look no further because we are excited to announce our upcoming job fair!

🎉 Join us on March 26th at the Sun Valley Work source Center in Sun Valley, CA for a fantastic opportunity to network with a variety of employers and potentially land your dream job.

💼 This is your chance to meet with representatives from top companies in the area and showcase your skills and experience.

The event is open to non-veterans as well.

We can't wait to see you there!

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08/18/2025

🎖️ Veterans with service-connected disabilities face unique employment challenges—but they don't have to face them alone.

The Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program offers vital resources like career counseling, education funding, job placement assistance, and even family support to help veterans build meaningful, long-term careers.

Whether you're a veteran, employer, or advocate, this article breaks down eligibility, services, and success stories that show just how transformative VR&E can be.

📘 Read more: https://www.veteranssi.org/post/exploring-veteran-readiness-and-employment-benefits-for-service-connected-disabilities

Finding and maintaining employment can be challenging for veterans with service-connected disabilities. Fortunately, the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program, formerly known as Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment, is here to help. This program, often called Chapter 31, offers a varie...

08/16/2025

Part of our leadership team had the honor of attending the VFW National Convention in Columbus, Ohio this week.

Connecting directly with veteran leaders, organizations, and partners from across the country allows us to better understand the needs of the veteran community—and find new ways to support them. We’re committed to growing our presence in this space and strengthening the partnerships that help us make a real impact.

Alongside other VFW members, we were honored to meet hashtag recipient U.S. Army Specialist Five James McCloughan at the convention.

Thank you to the hashtag and all who serve.