In a March House VA Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity hearing, VFW offered insight into the military’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP) and addressed a proposal aimed at enhancing the process.
VFW National Legislative Deputy Director Kristina Keenan highlighted several critical aspects of TAP-related legislation. Keenan said VFW supports provisions that will improve transition services for troops leaving the military. She added that it is important to include accredited claims representatives, such as VFW service officers, in the TAP process.
Anthony Weeks, 88th Force Support Squadron veteran affairs benefits advisor, briefs students about the Transition Assistance Program in 2016 at Ohio’s Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. AIR FORCE PHOTO“This would enable service members to have a point of contact to begin their pre-separation claim,” Keenan said. “We also support the bill’s inclusion of pre-enrollment in VA medical care during transition. This would provide veterans with their earned benefits the day they leave the military.”
Keenan told Congress that VFW works with about 10 percent of the troops who attend TAP sessions.
“We strongly believe there needs to be accountability for [the Department of Defense] to follow the law,” Keenan said. “Commanders should be held responsible for ensuring their transitioning service members attend TAP in a timely manner.”
Furthermore, Keenan expressed VFW’s support for the proposed legislation’s inclusion of pre-enrollment in VA medical care during transition. This provision would enable veterans to access their entitled benefits immediately upon leaving the military, facilitating a smoother transition into civilian life, she said.
“This draft bill also includes reports that would ensure regular updates on critical aspects of transition, such as timeliness, attendance, pathway participation and frequency of participation,” Keenan testified. “The VFW has spoken about the elements in this proposed legislation during numerous hearings before this subcommittee and before the Senate.”
In her testimony, Keenan underscored the VFW’s commitment to advocating for legislation that enhances veterans’ well-being and ensures they receive the support they deserve. The VFW’s endorsement of these proposals reflects a broader effort to address the evolving needs of veterans and improve their overall transition experience.
“We hope this subcommittee engages with us to help refine this proposal to ensure it provides the great resources it intends,” Keenan said.
This article is featured in the 2024 June/July issue of VFW magazine.