U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and Representative Nancy Mace, acting chairwoman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, led a joint hearing to receive legislative presentations from several veterans service organizations (VSOs). The session included representatives from Disabled American Veterans, Military Officers Association of America, Blue Star Families, Vietnam Veterans of America, National Congress of American Indians, Service Women’s Action Network, Gold Star Wives of America, and Black Veterans Project. This event marks the first in a series of three hearings with VSOs scheduled over the next two weeks.
During his remarks, Senator Moran highlighted the continued contributions veterans make to their communities across the United States. “Every day, in every state and district, veterans bring a wealth of skills, leadership, experience and values from the military into their communities,” said Sen. Moran. “It is our responsibility to make certain that federal programs and policies – at VA and in every other department and agency - help veterans translate those strengths into long-term stability, health and opportunity.”
Senator Moran also discussed his legislation called the National Veterans Strategy Act. He noted its intent to coordinate efforts among federal, state, local governments as well as private organizations for the benefit of veterans.
He welcomed participants and acknowledged their ongoing advocacy: “I want to welcome our witnesses from Disabled American Veterans and other veteran service organizations and extend a special hello to the veterans from Kansas who are here in person or tuning in from home.” He further stated appreciation for VSO leaders: “I am grateful for the work that VSOs like the ones we will hear from this morning do every day across the country and here in our nation’s Capitol to support their fellow veterans and their families, and advocate for a stronger, better Department of Veterans Affairs.”
Moran emphasized Congress's shared goals with VSOs: “Our committees are working every day with those same goals in mind.” He reflected on how these hearings remind him that “veterans are not defined by those challenges. Far from it.”
“This responsibility is why I, along with Ranking Member Blumenthal, introduced the National Veterans Strategy Act to coordinate the efforts of federal, state, and local governments, along with for-profit and nonprofit organizations, in the best interest of our nation’s veterans,” he said.
The hearing reflects ongoing efforts by Congressional committees such as the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, which works to improve access to VA health care services and assists veterans transitioning to civilian life. The committee maintains offices within the U.S. Capitol complex according to its official website. It also oversees benefits programs nationwide and collaborates closely with entities including the Department of Veterans Affairs as part of its mission.
“I am grateful for the widespread support for that bill among the VSO community and I am eager to discuss it with our witnesses,” Moran said during his remarks.
He concluded by recognizing VSO leaders’ dedication: “I am grateful to the VSO leaders testifying today for the tireless work you do to make certain that Congress and VA remain focused on doing what is best for our veteran and military communities.” He expressed anticipation about learning more regarding how VSO legislative priorities advance veteran success.
Jerry Moran currently serves as chairman while Richard Blumenthal is ranking member on the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee. The committee has jurisdiction over all U.S. veterans' programs and provides oversight intended to ensure effective support through benefits and healthcare initiatives.
