Dear Department of Florida American Legion Members,
I am asking for your immediate attention and action regarding a rule proposal that could negatively impact veterans’ disability compensation.
On February 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs published an interim final rule titled “Evaluative Rating: Impact of Medication” (RIN 2900-AS49). This rule changes how disability ratings are evaluated by directing examiners to assess a veteran’s level of functioning while on medication, rather than considering the severity of the underlying service-connected condition itself.
Under this new standard, veterans who responsibly manage their disabilities through prescribed medication could receive lower disability ratings and reduced compensation — even though their underlying condition has not improved or been cured.
The VA is accepting public comments through April 20, 2026. It is critical that we make our voices heard.
You can submit your public comment directly at the link below:
When submitting your comment, please confirm the docket number VA-2026-VBA-0067 / RIN 2900-AS49 and clearly state your opposition to this rule.
Suggested points you may consider including:
Veterans should not be penalized for properly managing their service-connected conditions with medication.
Medication often controls symptoms but does not cure the underlying disability.
Disability ratings should reflect the true severity and long-term impact of service-connected conditions.
This rule could unfairly reduce earned benefits for veterans nationwide.
Every individual comment matters. The VA is required to review and consider all submissions received during the comment period. A strong response from Legionnaires across Florida will send a clear and unified message.
Please take a few minutes to submit your comment today.
INDIANAPOLIS (February 17, 2026) – The American Legion continues its call for entries in the annual Fourth Estate Awards competition for excellence in journalism and its positive impact on society. The deadline for submissions to be received or postmarked is March 15, 2026.
The American Legion presents the awards to recognize the outstanding achievements made in print and broadcast media. Online and podcast submissions are also encouraged to compete in the print or broadcast categories. In addition to the award, the winner in each category will be presented a $2,000 stipend to cover travel and lodging expenses to The American Legion National Convention in Louisville, Ky. The presentation will occur at approximately 9 am on September 3, 2026 at Kentucky International Convention Center.
An entry form with contest rules can be found at https://www.legion.org/information-center/the-fourth-estate-award. You can also contact kchrisman@legion.org for further information. Submissions are judged on the quality of the work and the impact that it had in producing a positive result for the community. The work must have been published, posted or broadcast in 2025.
All journalists or media outlets who believe their work improved society in a tangible way are encouraged to submit their entry. There is no entry fee and no single medium is limited to the number of entries.
Past winners include CBS News, CNN, USA Today, the Courier Journal and the Military Times. The complete list can be found at www.legion.org.
As we close out Week 5 of Session, several important developments have come to light.
The House introduced its first budget proposal, and I’m pleased to report that our request for $200,000 is halfway there. Now is the time for action — and the sooner the better. We need your help making phone calls immediately.
Please contact your House and Senate members and ask them to support full funding for Boys State and Girls State. In addition, we ask that you directly contact the Budget Chairs:
• Senator Hooper — (850) 487-5021
• Representative McClure — (850) 717-5068
Let them know you support Boys State and Girls State being funded at the full $200,000 level.
Your voice still matters. Emails and phone calls remain one of the most effective forms of advocacy, and your outreach truly influences the process. When contacting legislators about this funding, please reference the following appropriations:
• Senate Appropriation 2602 — Tom Leek
• House Appropriation 2799 — Michelle Salzman
Mentioning these appropriations helps legislative staff quickly identify the funding request and route your message appropriately.
Meanwhile, the Veterans Treatment Court measure has cleared the House and is awaiting final action in the Senate. The Dental Program continues moving in a positive direction. Charitable Fundraising and our Dispenser legislation appear to have stalled for now, but we are actively working with bill sponsors on related items and remain hopeful for a favorable posture.
Please take a few minutes to complete the advocacy action below so your voice is heard:
As we close out Week 4 of the 2026 Legislative Session, I can say without hesitation — it has been a busy and productive time in Tallahassee. From participating in Military Week at the Capitol to testifying in committee and holding meetings with legislative members, your advocacy efforts are being seen and felt.
During this past week, our Department Commander, along with portions of her executive team, conducted numerous meetings on behalf of The American Legion. Their presence and engagement reinforced our priorities and demonstrated the strength of our organization. The Commander also attended the Florida Veterans Council meeting, where she had the opportunity to observe our Legislative team in action — a strong example of coordinated advocacy working exactly as intended.
I’m pleased to report that the Veterans Treatment Court bill has already passed the House floor, and the Senate version remains in a strong position. This is a meaningful step forward in ensuring veterans across Florida have access to the support systems they deserve.
We do, however, still have work ahead of us on the charitable bingo Dispenser bills — HB 609 and SB 1282. A great deal of groundwork is underway as we continue clarifying language and addressing concerns alongside bill sponsors. These conversations are critical to protecting fundraising tools that support our Posts and the communities we serve.
For those tracking HB 429 and SB 536, adjustments were made to the bill language to ensure charitable rides are not negatively impacted. With that clarification in place, continue your mission work — and as we like to say, keep the rubber side down.
Looking ahead, next week will be another active stretch of Session, and we need your help on the Dispenser bills. Please take a few minutes to complete the advocacy action below so your voice is heard:
The American Legion Department of Florida is now accepting interest from qualified Legionnaires for appointment as Department Assistant Judge Advocate for the 2026–2027 term.
Attorneys (active or retired) are preferred.
If you are interested, please submit the following information:
Name
Post number
Brief summary of qualifications
Send responses to the current Department Assistant Judge Advocate, R. Curtis McNeil (incoming Department Judge Advocate), at: assistantja@legionmail.org
Thank you for your continued dedication and support of Florida’s veterans!
As we head into the weekend, I want to provide a brief Friday Update, particularly for those of you who will be coming into Tallahassee next week. Much of my time over the coming days will be focused on preparing for your arrival and coordinating meetings to ensure our efforts at the Capitol are effective and organized.
Several bills continue to move across committee calendars—some raising areas of concern, while many others deserve our sincere gratitude. Overall, momentum is building, and engagement remains critical as we advance through Session.
VERY IMPORTANT REMINDER
If you plan on attending Capitol Days in Tallahassee, you must RSVP with me in advance. (Stuartscottfl@gmail.com)
Once the week begins, we will be a body in full motion. Stopping to accommodate individuals who did not RSVP ahead of time is counterproductive and unfair to those who properly notified us of their participation. Please be respectful of the time, planning, and effort put forth by your fellow Legionnaires.
Attached to this update is the current bill tracker, outlining the veteran-related legislation we are monitoring and the status of each measure.
During Capitol Days:
Some participants will be assigned to specific meetings with key legislators
Others will be part of canvassing teams, meeting with legislative offices throughout the Capitol
Please be aware that the week of February 2nd is Military Week at the Capitol, with numerous VSOs and military installations hosting displays and events. The Capitol will be active and busy throughout the week.
For those who have already RSVP’d, you will receive a separate email from me with meeting times, locations, and additional details.
Unable to Attend in Person?
Your voice still matters. Emails and phone calls to your legislators remain an extremely effective form of advocacy.
For those wishing to contact legislators specifically regarding Boys State and Girls State funding, please reference the following appropriations when making contact:
Senate Appropriation 2602 – Senator Leek
House Appropriation 2799 – Representative Salzman
Thank you for your continued engagement, professionalism, and dedication to advocating for Florida’s veterans, our Posts, and the communities we serve.
Stay engaged.
Stay informed.
And as always—thank you for answering the call.
Thank you for your continued engagement as we move deeper into the 2026 Legislative Session. As bills begin moving through the committee process—some gaining momentum, others facing resistance—it is clear that time is not on our side. We are now approaching the close of the first two weeks of Session, and the window for effective grassroots advocacy is narrowing.
So, what does that mean for you?
It means our opportunity to make our voices heard is like sand in an hourglass—slowly running out. But it also means we have a powerful opportunity in front of us.
Florida Capitol Days – February 3rd & 4th
On February 3rd and 4th, we will be at the Florida Capitol meeting directly with key legislators to discuss The American Legion’s priorities. Teams will be formed and assigned to specific House and Senate offices to ensure our message is delivered clearly, professionally, and with strength.
If you are interested in being part of this grassroots effort, now is the time to begin making your arrangements.
This will allow us to begin forming teams and keep you informed of any pre-meetings or coordination briefings.
Not Able to Attend in Person?
Grassroots advocacy takes many forms. If traveling to Tallahassee is not possible, you can still make a tremendous impact by contacting your local legislators through emails and phone calls and letting them know where you stand on our priorities.
Attached to this update is our current Veterans Legislative Bill Tracker, outlining the measures we are monitoring and our position on each.
Stay engaged. Stay informed.
And thank you for making your voice heard on behalf of Florida’s veterans, our Posts, and the communities we proudly serve.
The American Legion is gearing up for the 107th National Convention in Louisville, Kentucky, taking place August 28 – September 3, 2026.
If your Post or community has a band, color guard, and/or JROTC unit that may be interested in participating, National encourages you to share the contest details below with them.
Contest Schedule & Location (Kentucky International Convention Center)
All contests will be held at the Kentucky International Convention Center (KICC) in Hall D, Upper Concourse:
National Color Guard Contest:Friday, August 28, 2026 – 10:30 AM
National JROTC Competition:Friday, August 28, 2026 – 2:30 PM
National Band Contest:Saturday, August 29, 2026 – 1:00 PM
Applications, Rules, and Forms
National advises that application forms, updated rules, and the W-9 form are available via the contest information page:
If your Post sponsors or supports a youth unit, band program, or color guard, please share this information with them as soon as possible so they have time to prepare their application materials.
Tomorrow, The American Legion, Department of Florida will proudly host a Mobility Scooter Distribution Ceremony for our deserving veterans—made possible through the remarkable generosity of Jack Kump and Joan Wheeler. This milestone marks more than a decade of unwavering support, with Jack and Joan having donated 108 mobility scooters to veterans across Florida.
We are also honored to welcome SpinLife, one of the nation’s leading mobility product providers, as a partner in this effort. SpinLife has generously donated an additional mobility scooter and will be attending in person to share a special announcement during the event.
Special Presentation
During the ceremony, ten veterans will receive mobility scooters—restoring independence and helping improve quality of life.
You’re Invited
Legionnaires are strongly encouraged to attend. Please join us as we recognize Jack and Joan’s extraordinary generosity and show our donors and community partners how much their support means to Florida’s veteran community.
Event Details
📅 When: Wednesday, January 21, 2026 ⏰ Time: 11:00 a.m. 📍 Where: American Legion, Department of Florida 1912 Lee Road, Orlando, FL 32810
Three Scooters Still Available
We currently have three scooters unclaimed. If you know a veteran in need, please have them contact me as soon as possible so they can be considered.
For questions or additional details, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Today marks the opening day of the 2026 Florida Legislative Session, and as we begin, it appears we may once again be in for extra innings.
With Property Tax reform and the possibility of Redistricting being added to the agenda, much of the Legislature’s initial focus will center on these high-profile issues. While those matters take priority in the Capitol, we will remain fully engaged and vigilant on all veteran-related legislation and the bills that directly impact our Posts and the communities we support.
Of particular importance this Session are the companion bills addressing charitable bingo “Dispenser” machines — HB 609 and SB 1282. These measures are critical to modernizing charitable gaming and protecting the fundraising tools our Posts rely upon to serve veterans and their families. An article appearing in today’s Orlando Sentinel recognizes and shows appreciation to the sponsors of this legislation, and we are grateful for their leadership and support of the veteran community.
As always, the pace of Session can be fast and unpredictable. When opportunities arise to move key bills forward, we may have as little as 72 hours’ notice. When we issue A Call for Action, your immediate involvement will be essential.
Don’t forget to subscribe to our Legislative Updates so you can stay informed on the bills we are tracking and be ready when your voice is needed.
Together, we will continue to advocate for Florida’s veterans, protect our Posts, and strengthen the communities we serve.
Bay Pines, FL — Bay Pines VA Healthcare System will host a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Nursing Assistant, and Health Care Technician Recruitment Fair and invites qualified candidates to learn more about career opportunities serving America’s Veterans.
The hiring event will be held Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the C.W. Bill Young VA Medical Center, Building 100, J.C. Cobb Room (1D-127).
Qualified applicants will have the opportunity for on-the-spot interviews.
What to Bring
Applicants should come prepared with:
Three (3) copies of a current resume
A copy of education transcripts
A copy of professional license (LPN applicants)
Three (3) professional references (current or former supervisors)
Providing over a decade of mobility for Florida’s Veterans
Orlando, January 21, 2026 – In an inspiring act of generosity, Jack Kump and Joan Wheeler, philanthropists from Ormond Beach, Florida, are transforming the lives of deserving Florida veterans through the donation of 16 mobility scooters to those unable to afford or access one through traditional medical channels.
Florida is home to more than 1.4 million veterans, with nearly 32 percent reporting some level of disability. This donation not only honors their service but also helps address the daily mobility challenges many veterans face.
For more than a decade, Jack and Joan have partnered with The American Legion, Department of Florida, to identify veterans in need. Through this partnership, they have donated a total of 109 life-changing mobility scooters, including this year’s contribution.
Their generosity has inspired even greater support. Through their influence and longstanding commitment to Florida’s veterans, Jack and Joan secured six additional scooters, bringing the total to 22 scooters to be awarded to deserving veterans. The additional scooters were made possible with support from SpinLife, McLaren of Orlando, Pride Mobility Products Corporation, and the couple’s personal financial advisor, John Downey.
“Without the military’s influence, discipline, and esprit de corps, my life would have likely taken a much less productive path,” said Jack Kump. “This is our way of giving back to those who served.”
Their commitment is deeply personal. This initiative honors two World War II veterans who profoundly shaped their lives: Joan Wheeler’s late father, Robert I. Wheeler, and Jack Kump’s late mentor, Leonard F. Wedge.
During last year’s distribution event, Jack Kump and Joan Wheeler announced their long-term commitment to this cause, sharing that they have made arrangements to ensure the mobility scooter program will continue well into the future through their estate.
The scooters will be presented during a special distribution ceremony hosted by The American Legion, Department of Florida, at its headquarters in Orlando. Mr. Kump and Ms. Wheeler will attend the event to personally meet the veterans and witness the impact of their generosity.
Among last year’s recipients was Nelson Perez, a U.S. Army veteran honorably discharged due to a permanent disability. Upon learning he had been selected, Perez shared, “I’m incredibly grateful to receive this scooter. You don’t know how much this means to me. It will truly change my life!”
Building on the success of this program, SpinLife, a leading national retailer of mobility and medical equipment for more than 25 years, has expanded its involvement after witnessing the direct impact these scooters have on veterans’ daily lives. During this year’s event, SpinLife representatives will make a special announcement regarding their increased level of support for The American Legion, Department of Florida, further reinforcing their commitment to veterans and communities in need.
“The generosity shown by Jack and Joan exemplifies the gratitude our veterans deserve,” said Bruce Comer, Adjutant of The American Legion, Department of Florida. “Their compassion and continued support make a lasting difference in the lives of Florida’s veterans.”
About SpinLife
SpinLife, a division of Numotion, is the nation’s leading provider of mobility products and services, empowering individuals with personal independence and improved quality of life. SpinLife is proud to support initiatives like this, which make a meaningful difference in communities across the country.
INDIANAPOLIS (January 9, 2026) – The American Legion has announced its call for entries in the annual Fourth Estate Awards competition for excellence in journalism and its positive impact on society. The deadline for submissions to be received or postmarked is March 15, 2026.
The American Legion presents the awards to recognize the outstanding achievements made in print and broadcast media. Online and podcast submissions are also encouraged to compete in the print or broadcast categories. In addition to the award, the winner in each category will be presented a $2,000 stipend to cover travel and lodging expenses to The American Legion National Convention in Louisville, Ky. The presentation will occur at approximately 9 am on September 3, 2026 at Kentucky International Convention Center.
Submissions are judged on the quality of the work and the impact that it had in producing a positive result for the community. The work must have been published, posted or broadcast in 2025.
All journalists or media outlets who believe their work improved society in a tangible way are encouraged to submit their entry. There is no entry fee and no single medium is limited to the number of entries.
Past winners include CBS News, CNN, USA Today, the Courier Journal and the Military Times. The complete list can be found at www.legion.org.
