LEGION REPORTS
Department Membership Summary
Post Membership Summary
Weekly Reports for March 12, 2026
Call to Action – Boys State / Girls State Funding
We still need your help to ensure funding for Boys State and Girls State remains a priority during the final stages of the legislative process.
Our voice still matters. Emails and phone calls remain among the most effective forms of advocacy, and your outreach directly influences the process.
When contacting legislators, please reference the following appropriations:
• Senate Appropriation 2602 — Senator Tom Leek
• House Appropriation 2799 — Representative Michelle Salzman
We also encourage you to contact the budget leaders overseeing the final negotiations:
• Senate Appropriations Chair — Senator Ed Hooper
• House Budget/Appropriations Chair — Representative Lawrence McClure
Referencing these appropriation numbers helps legislative staff quickly identify the request during conference negotiations and ensures your message is routed appropriately.
Boys State and Girls State provide hands-on civic education and leadership development for high school students across Florida, teaching the principles of government, citizenship, and public service. These programs have shaped generations of community leaders, public servants, and veterans.
Please take a few minutes today to call or email your legislators and respectfully ask them to support these appropriations.
Your advocacy makes a difference.
For God and Country.
Phone Script for Legislators
Introduction
“Hello, my name is ___ and I am a constituent from ___ and a member/supporter of The American Legion. I’m calling to respectfully ask for support of funding for Boys State and Girls State.”
Reference the Appropriations
“I’m specifically asking for support of:
• Senate Appropriation 2602 sponsored by Senator Tom Leek, and
• House Appropriation 2799 sponsored by Representative Michelle Salzman.”
Budget Leadership
“I also respectfully ask that Senator/Representative ___ support these items during conference negotiations and work with Senate Appropriations Chair Senator Ed Hooper and House Budget Chair Representative Lawrence McClure to ensure this funding remains in the final budget.”
Why it Matters
“These programs provide hands-on civic education and leadership training for high school students across Florida and help develop the next generation of informed and engaged citizens.”
Closing
“Thank you for your time and for supporting youth leadership programs in Florida.”
Entering the Final Week of Regular Session
As we close out Week 7 and prepare to enter the final week of “regular” Session, the pace in Tallahassee continues to accelerate.
As we move into what is supposed to be the final week, unless something miraculous happens today, we are likely setting the stage for extra innings on the budget. While that can create some uncertainty, it also opens the door for certain items to possibly see a little more daylight as negotiations continue.
Both chambers have now moved into budget conference, where final negotiations will determine what ultimately makes it into the final appropriations bill. This is a critical phase of the process — and your engagement right now truly matters.
‘As it currently stands, the task over the next week (or weeks) is to close a $1.4 billion gap between the Senate’s $115 billion proposal and the House’s leaner $113.6 billion budget. There is also the $117.4 billion proposal that Governor Ron DeSantis introduced in December, but we would not recommend adding any more variables to the equation — unless you purchased travel insurance.’
Boys State / Girls State Funding – Action Still Needed
We still need your phone calls regarding Boys State and Girls State funding.
Our voice still matters. Emails and phone calls remain one of the most effective forms of advocacy, and your outreach directly influences the process.
When contacting legislators about this funding, please reference the following appropriations:
- Senate Appropriation 2602 — Tom Leek
• House Appropriation 2799 — Michelle Salzman
Referencing these numbers helps legislative staff quickly identify the request during conference negotiations and ensure your message is routed appropriately.
Charitable Gaming Legislation
While the momentum of the charitable fundraising efforts has slowed, the legislation targeting charitable gaming between the chambers is not currently aligned. However, there is still time for these measures to merge. We are actively working with bill sponsors to come to an agreeable landing and position ourselves as favorably as possible before the final days.
Washington, D.C. Advocacy Success
Now let me take a moment to brag on our recent Washington, D.C. trip.
We had a delegation of 22 members representing The American Legion, Sons of The American Legion, and the Auxiliary travel to Washington to advocate on behalf of our organization and our veterans.
During that trip, our team personally met all of Florida’s 28 congressional offices. That level of engagement is a tremendous accomplishment and a strong reflection of the dedication within our Department. These meetings ensured that the voice of Florida’s veterans was heard directly by those representing us at the federal level.
I want to personally thank everyone who took the time to travel, participate, and represent our organization with professionalism and purpose.
Looking Ahead
While I may watch the weatherman every morning, I still do my own research — and I cannot say with certainty how this year will conclude. However, I do have a prediction.
Be prepared for extra innings again this year.
As always, thank you for staying engaged, making the calls, and continuing to advocate for our veterans, our youth programs, and the communities we proudly serve.
Veterans Invited to Share Their Voices at American Legion Town Hall in Pensacola
The American Legion will host a Veterans Town Hall Meeting on Monday, March 30 at 6:00 p.m. at American Legion Post 240, located at 8666 Gulf Beach Highway in Pensacola, Florida. The event will provide local veterans with an opportunity to speak directly about their experiences with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), ask questions, and learn more about available support services.
The town hall will be hosted by Post Commander Cathy Butler, USAF (Ret.), and is part of The American Legion’s nationwide effort to gather feedback from veterans regarding their VA health care and benefits. These town hall meetings are an important way for veterans to ensure their voices are heard and to help identify areas where services can be improved.
The American Legion works closely with the VA to advocate for the best possible care and resources for America’s veterans. Feedback gathered during town hall meetings helps the organization better understand the challenges veterans face and strengthens its ability to advocate for meaningful improvements.
Veterans attending the meeting will have the opportunity to share their personal experiences with VA services, ask questions about benefits and care, and learn more about the work of the Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation program. This program focuses on supporting veterans through health care access, benefits assistance, and rehabilitation services.
All veterans in the Pensacola area are encouraged to attend and participate in the discussion. Community input plays a vital role in shaping how services are delivered and ensuring veterans receive the support they have earned through their service.
Event Details
- Event: American Legion Veterans Town Hall Meeting
- Date: Monday, March 30
- Time: 6:00 p.m.
- Location: American Legion Post 240
8666 Gulf Beach Highway
Pensacola, FL 32507 - Host: Post Commander Cathy Butler, USAF (Ret.)
Veterans interested in sharing their experiences or learning more about VA services are encouraged to attend and take part in this important conversation.
The American Legion Mourns Passing of Lou Holtz
(INDIANAPOLIS—March 4, 2026) – American Legion National Commander Dan K. Wiley issued the following statement today concerning the passing of Lou Holtz:
“Lou Holtz was not only a champion college football coach, but he was an even better patriot and role model. At our 2019 national convention, The American Legion honored Coach Holtz with a prestigious award for his charity work. He spent considerable time visiting with wounded warriors who were invited to the event as special guests. He made each one feel special. After the award was presented to him, Coach Holtz made a financial contribution to The American Legion which was completely unexpected by us. It was just another reflection of his enormous generosity. Our condolences to his family, the many athletes who benefited from his leadership and his legion of friends and fans.”
Holtz, an Army veteran, received The American Legion Past Department Commander Club James V. Day “Good Guy” award during the organization’s 101st National Convention held in Indianapolis.
In a 2018 letter to The American Legion, the University of Notre Dame legend wrote, “Every couple of years I go abroad speaking to the armed services in Iraq, Afghanistan, Korea, etc. Not many people know that I was an officer in the Army, and I learned more in the military than I ever learned in a college classroom.”
Weekly Reports for March 5, 2026
American Legion 107th Birthday Speech Available for Posts and Districts
As The American Legion prepares to commemorate its 107th birthday on March 15, 2026, a prepared speech is now available for Posts and Districts to use during their local observances.
Developed by the National Headquarters Media & Communications Division, the speech reflects on the Legion’s founding in 1919 and its enduring commitment to the principle of “service first.” It highlights the organization’s historic advocacy for veterans, including the creation of the GI Bill and the foundation of what became the Department of Veterans Affairs, as well as its continued leadership in youth programs, Americanism and community service.
Posts are encouraged to incorporate the speech into birthday dinners, ceremonies and public events as we celebrate 107 years of strengthening America through service to veterans, families and communities. The full text is available for download to assist in planning your March 15 celebration.
Celebrate & Educate: Youth Programs Inspire Civic Leadership for America’s 250th Anniversary
As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, the American Legion Family is encouraging communities to “Celebrate & Educate” through a wide range of youth programs focused on civics, leadership and responsible citizenship.
From interactive books and educational materials about the U.S. flag, veterans and America’s founding values to hands-on leadership experiences, these initiatives reach students of all ages. Signature programs include the American Legion Oratorical Contest, awarding more than $200,000 in scholarships each year; Boys State and Boys Nation; Girls State and Girls Nation; the Americanism Essay and Poppy Poster contests; American Legion Baseball; and Junior Shooting Sports.
Together, these programs equip young people with a deeper understanding of the Constitution, the rights and responsibilities of citizenship, and the leadership skills needed to serve their communities—now and beyond America’s 250th birthday.
Weekly Reports for February 26, 2026
Department Adjutant Job Posting
Department Adjutant Bruce E. Comer has announced his retirement effective September 4, 2026.
In preparation for this transition, the Department of Florida is now accepting applications for the position of Department Adjutant. Attached please find the official job posting for your reference. The announcement includes details regarding the application deadline, anticipated interview timeline, and estimated start date.
The Department anticipates providing a transition period to allow the selected candidate to train alongside Adjutant Comer prior to his retirement to ensure a smooth and orderly transfer of responsibilities.
We respectfully request that you share this announcement with your members to assist us in reaching qualified candidates who may be interested in this opportunity.
Thank you for your assistance and continued support.
Week 7 Legislative Update – Conference and the Final Stretch
We have rounded the corner and are now in Week 7, with only 13 full days remaining in regular Session.
Both chambers have now moved into budget conference, where final negotiations will determine what ultimately makes it into the final appropriations bill. This is a critical phase of the process — and your engagement right now truly matters.
We still need your phone calls regarding Boys State and Girls State funding.
Our voice still matters. Emails and phone calls remain one of the most effective forms of advocacy, and your outreach directly influences the process.
When contacting legislators about this funding, please reference the following appropriations:
- Senate Appropriation 2602 — Tom Leek
• House Appropriation 2799 — Michelle Salzman
Referencing these numbers helps legislative staff quickly identify the request during conference negotiations and ensures your message is routed appropriately.
Regarding the bills targeting charitable gaming, the measures are not currently aligned between the chambers. However, there is still time for them to merge. We are actively working with bill sponsors to come to an agreeable landing and position ourselves as favorably as possible before the final days.
While I may watch the weatherman every morning, I still do my own research — and I cannot say with certainty how this year will conclude. However, I do have a prediction.
And for those who read between the lines… yes, I said regular Session.
Be prepared for extra innings again this year.
As always, thank you for staying engaged, making the calls, and continuing to advocate for our veterans, our youth programs, and the communities we proudly serve.
Respectfully,
Stuart Scott
Legislative Chair
The American Legion
Department of Florida
Your Voices Made the Difference – VA Halts Enforcement of Proposed Rule
Because of your swift action and strong response, your voices have been heard.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has announced that it is halting enforcement of the interim final rule, Evaluative Rating: Impact of Medication, effective immediately. While the VA maintains that the rule was intended to clarify policy, it acknowledged the serious concerns raised by veterans and stakeholders nationwide and has confirmed the rule will not be enforced at any time in the future.
This outcome did not happen by chance.
Veterans across Florida answered the call to action. You submitted public comments, shared information, and stood united in defense of earned disability benefits. Your engagement sent a clear message: veterans must never be penalized for responsibly managing their service-connected conditions.
The VA has stated it will continue to collect public comments, but enforcement of the rule has been stopped. This demonstrates the power of organized, informed advocacy — and the impact that committed Legionnaires can make when we act together.
Thank you for standing watch. Thank you for protecting veterans’ benefits. And thank you for proving once again that when The American Legion speaks with one voice, it matters.
Urgent Call to Action – Submit Public Comment Opposing VA Rule
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:
https://www.regulations.gov/commenton/VA-2026-VBA-0067-0001
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.
For God and Country,
Stuart Scott
Legislative Chair
Department of Florida American Legion
legislative@legionmail.org
Weekly Reports for February 19, 2026
The American Legion still seeks entries for Fourth Estate Awards in media
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.
Week 5 Legislative Update – Action Needed
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:
Advocacy Link:
https://win.newmode.net/modernfloridagaming
As always, thank you for staying engaged in the process and continuing to advocate for our veterans and our communities.
Respectfully,
Stuart Scott
Legislative Chair
Weekly Reports for February 12, 2026
Week 4 Legislative Update – Momentum in Tallahassee
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:
Advocacy Link:
https://win.newmode.net/modernfloridagaming
This grassroots engagement truly makes a difference when legislators weigh these decisions.
Thank you for your continued dedication to advocating for veterans and strengthening our communities. Your efforts matter more than you know.
Respectfully,
Stuart Scott
Legislative Chair
The American Legion
Department of Florida
Seeking Qualified Legionnaires: Assistant Judge Advocate Appointment (2026–2027)
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:
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Name
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Post number
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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!