Donate to Help the Victims of the Deadly Maui Wildfires
The recent wildfires on Maui have caused widespread destruction and loss, including for many veterans and members of The American Legion. These brave men and women have served our country with honor and distinction, and now they need our help.
The fires began on August 10, 2023, and have been burning for over a week. The fires have destroyed over 1,000 homes and businesses, and over 10,000 people have been evacuated from their homes. The fires are still burning, and the full extent of the damage is not yet known.
The American Red Cross is providing assistance to fire victims, including food, shelter, and clothing. The Hawaii Community Foundation has established a Maui Strong Fund to support fire victims. The Maui United Way is also accepting donations to help fire victims.
We are asking for your help to provide financial assistance to veterans and members of The American Legion affected by the recent Maui fires. Your donation will help them to rebuild their lives and recover from this disaster.
Here are some of the ways your donation will be used:
- To provide financial assistance for food, clothing, and shelter.
- To help replace lost vehicles and other essential items.
- To provide counseling and support services.
- To help veterans and Legionnaires get back on their feet.
Your donation will make a difference in the lives of these veterans and Legionnaires.
Please give what you can to help them rebuild their lives. Thank you for your support.
Sign up for Veterans News emails
By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: . You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact
VETERANS NEWS
Area Oratorical Contest Results
Congratulations to the winners of the Area Oratorical Contests!
Veterans Groups Challenge VA Rule Limiting Access to GI Bill Education Benefits
Veterans groups and the state of Virginia have filed a lawsuit challenging a VA rule that they say restricts access to combined education benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill.
New VA Policy Allows Guardianship for Some At-Risk Veterans
The VA and Justice Department announced a new plan allowing federal attorneys to seek court-appointed guardians for certain Veterans who are unable to make their own medical decisions and do not have family members or legal representatives to assist them.
American Legion Lobby Day
We’re looking forward to welcoming you to American Legion Lobby Day at the State Capitol. This is an important opportunity for Legionnaires from across California to meet directly with legislators and staff and advocate for priorities that matter to veterans and their families.
Major Richard Star Act Blocked Again in Senate
The Senate blocked the Major Richard Star Act for a second time, halting a bill supported by The American Legion that would restore full retirement pay to more than 50,000 combat-injured Veterans.
(UPDATED) AB 1638 Could Bring Veterans Services Directly to California Military Bases
California Assembly Bill 1638 would fund County Veterans Service Officers on military bases to help transitioning Service Members and Veterans access benefits.
New Report Finds Veterans Well Positioned for These Six Careers Despite Rise of AI
A 2026 report from Hire Heroes USA and Redeployable finds Veterans remain well positioned for careers in fields like cybersecurity, healthcare, and logistics despite growing AI adoption.
Post Data Report Form: Due April 15
The Post Data Report form is due Wednesday, April 15.
If the form has not been submitted by this date, there is no guarantee that changes to post information will be made before the first batch of renewal notices is sent out.
SB 888 (Property Taxation: Disabled Veterans’ Exemption)
SB 888 modifies how California calculates household income for disabled veterans seeking enhanced property tax exemptions. By excluding service-connected disability payments from income calculations, the bill makes it easier for disabled veterans to qualify for the larger $150,000 property tax exemption rather than the standard $100,000 exemption. This change is temporary: it applies only through January 1, 2037, when the amended section automatically repeals and the law reverts to its current definition of “household income” unless the Legislature takes action to extend or make the policy permanent.
SB 1034 (Vehicles: Special License Plates)
SB 1034 expands California’s definition of ‘disabled veteran’ to include more medical conditions that qualify veterans for special license plates and parking placards. The bill recognizes conditions such as severe arthritis, neurological disorders, vision impairments, heart disease, and lung disease. Notably, it allows 100% permanently disabled veterans to obtain special license plates based on general disability standards, even if their mobility limitations are not service-connected, potentially benefiting thousands of veterans whose disabilities developed after military service.
Words of Condolence for Former Department Adjutant Bill Siler III
It is with profound sorrow and heartfelt reverence that we acknowledge the passing of our beloved former Department of California Adjutant, William “Bill” Siler III.
Survey Invite – The Effects of Paternal Agent Orange Exposure on the Development of Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Observational Approach
You are invited to complete a 10-20 minute anonymous survey for a study titled: The Effects of Paternal Agent Orange Exposure on the Development of Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Observational Approach.
National Commander’s Testimony Schedule – 2026 Washington Conference
The National Commander’s Testimony during the 2026 Washington Conference has been moved up a few minutes and will be held at 9:45 AM on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
Pentagon to Continue Support for Scouting America After Youth Organization Agrees to Policy Demands, New Benefits for Military Families
The Pentagon will continue supporting Scouting America under a new agreement requiring the group to officially eliminate DEI programs and update gender policies in line with Executive Order 14173.
(UPDATED) VA Halts Enforcement of Medication Disability Rule
The VA has halted enforcement of its disability ratings rule just days after it took effect, following intense backlash from Veterans, advocacy groups, and lawmakers.
Department of Virginia: Now Seeking Adjutant
The American Legion Department of Virginia is currently accepting applications for their Department Adjutant position.
(Updated) Korean War Veteran and Legionnaire Royce Williams May Finally Receive Medal of Honor
Legislation has opened the door for retired Navy Capt. Royce Williams to receive the Medal of Honor for his long-classified 1952 Korean War aerial victory.
Prayer Request for Past Department Commander Floyd Martin
Please pray for Past Department Commander Floyd Martin (2000-2001), his wife Mary, and his family as he battles cancer.
California Legionnaire: February 2026 Edition
The February edition of the California Legionnaire is now available!
California Bill Would Make Parking Benefits More Accessible for Disabled Veterans
California Senate Bill 1034 would make it easier for Disabled Veterans to qualify for parking benefits by aligning California’s rules more closely with federal disability standards.
Federal Lawsuit Filed After Veteran Detained During Camarillo Immigration Raid
Army Veteran George Retes has taken legal action against the federal government following his detention during a large immigration raid in Southern California.