Washington Update for October

The government shutdown heads into the third week

By PVA National Staff

Government Shutdown Affects Federal Services While VA Care Continues

A federal government shutdown is now in its third week with no clear resolution on the horizon. While Congress remains at an impasse, veterans’ essential services are largely protected thanks to advanced appropriations secured by advocacy organizations.

The Veterans Health Administration continues to provide direct care, and VA benefits including compensation and education payments are being processed normally. However, Veterans Benefits Administration regional offices have closed, and while National Cemetery Administration burials continue, cemetery maintenance and permanent headstone placement have been suspended temporarily.

Active-duty servicemembers received their October 15 paychecks after the president directed the Department of Defense to use available funds, though future pay remains uncertain. Military families face limitations on permanent change of station moves and family support programs during the funding lapse.

Leadership Changes at the VA

The president’s nominee for VA Under Secretary for Benefits has withdrawn from consideration. Karen Brazell, currently a senior adviser to VA Secretary Doug Collins, cited personal reasons for her withdrawal. The appointment process requires establishing a commission to review candidates, which previously took approximately two months.

Major Richard Star Act Stalled in Senate

Two attempts to advance the Major Richard Star Act failed in the Senate on October 8. The bipartisan legislation would eliminate the dollar-for-dollar offset between Department of Defense retirement pay and VA disability compensation for more than 50,000 combat-injured veterans. Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker blocked both motions, citing the estimated $10 billion cost and lack of funding mechanism.

Air Travel Protections Delayed

The Department of Transportation announced it will delay enforcement of four provisions in the final rule protecting wheelchair and scooter users during air travel until December 2026. The postponed provisions include airline liability for mishandled wheelchairs, training frequency requirements, pre-departure notifications, and fare difference reimbursements. Other rule provisions remain enforceable, and airlines must continue repairing or replacing damaged mobility devices.

Medical Foster Home Program Expansion

A Government Accountability Office report reveals the VA has expanded its Medical Foster Home Program but has not yet begun paying for veterans’ care costs despite having authority to do so under the Cleland-Dole Act. The VA cites outdated systems as the barrier and is exploring solutions before the authority expires in 2027. The program currently serves over 700 veterans and aims to have at least one medical foster home aligned with each of VA’s 170 medical centers by 2026.

Employment and Documentation Issues

October 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Meanwhile, a VA Office of Inspector General report found that Veteran Readiness and Employment counselors often lack appropriate documentation to support eligibility and entitlement decisions, prompting recommendations for comprehensive program review and improved standardization.

For veterans needing assistance during the shutdown, contact your local PVA National Service Officer or call the PVA benefits hotline at 1-866-734-0857. Travelers experiencing issues with damaged mobility devices should contact PVA’s Senior Advocacy Attorney.

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