Vets on the Hill ensures Congress hears from veteran constituents
Every day, veterans and volunteers across the country make calls, talk with neighbors, attend town halls, and speak up about issues facing the country.
Last month, Concerned Veterans for America brought that grassroots energy to Washington, D.C., for its annual “Vets on the Hill” event.
In one day, the group held more than 100 meetings with congressional offices representing 26 states.
Vets on the Hill gives grassroots leaders a chance to bring their communities’ voices directly to the people shaping policy in Washington.
Below, you can see CVA’s team pausing for a photo with Ohio Sen. Jon Husted (center) during a busy day of meetings.
Veterans shared what’s happening back home
For many veterans, navigating the VA system can mean delays, confusion, and unanswered questions. During Vets on the Hill, lawmakers heard from people who have seen those problems up close.
Veterans shared what happens when they wait too long for care, struggle to understand their options, or get stuck in a system that should work better.
CVA’s message was clear: Remove barriers, improve accountability, and empower veterans to keep leading in their families, workplaces, and communities.
A major focus: Veterans’ health care
A major focus was the Take Care of America’s Veterans Act.
This legislation would protect veterans’ health care choice, improve transparency, reduce barriers to lifesaving care, and increase accountability at the VA. It would help ensure veterans know when they qualify for community care and understand why a referral is denied if the VA says no.
The bill would require more accurate wait-time measurements, so the clock starts when a veteran asks for care. It would also create a modern self-scheduling portal, allowing veterans to schedule appointments, receive reminders, track referrals, and follow appeal decisions online.
The legislation also includes reforms for inpatient mental health care, so veterans in crisis get lifesaving care when they need it most.
That message came through across Capitol Hill, including in this conversation between CVA Brand Development Director David Huston (left) and Rep. Gus Bilirakis of Florida (right).
CVA also urged action on energy and national security
CVA’s work did not stop with veterans’ health care.
The team also spoke with lawmakers about rising costs and their impact on veterans, military families, and everyday Americans. Energy costs show up in utility bills, gas prices, groceries, transportation, and business costs.
CVA urged Congress to advance permitting reform. Energy projects can get trapped in years of delays because of ambiguous rules, shifting timelines, and federal red tape. Those delays make it harder to build the infrastructure America needs.
Permitting reform would help reduce costs, support jobs, strengthen American energy security, and reduce reliance on unstable regions.
CVA also discussed foreign policy and defense priorities, including Congress’ constitutional role in decisions about war and peace.
Grassroots leadership makes the difference
When CVA is on the ground on Capitol Hill, we make sure the nation sees that we’re advancing reforms that matter to all Americans.
Our grassroots capability is what makes us strong. Watch influencer Johnny Vargas break down Vets on the Hill 2026 by clicking on the image below.
Our work is important because veterans’ unique voices matter in shaping policies that impact all Americans.
Strong veterans help build a stronger country. When veterans can access timely care, support their families, grow businesses, and lead in their communities, the whole country benefits.
Volunteer with CVA to make a difference at future events and in your community.
