WEBVTT NOTE This file was generated by Descript 00:00:00.050 --> 00:00:02.970 Edward: Welcome to the Mil Weekly Briefing, your essential guide 00:00:02.970 --> 00:00:06.150 to the latest news impacting the military and veteran community. 00:00:06.530 --> 00:00:10.360 Whether you're currently serving in uniform, a military retiree, a veteran, 00:00:10.360 --> 00:00:14.630 or a family member, this is your source for the critical updates you need to know. 00:00:15.003 --> 00:00:18.733 Each week, we cut through the noise to bring you the most important developments 00:00:18.733 --> 00:00:22.323 from the Pentagon, Capitol Hill, and the Department of Veterans Affairs. 00:00:22.573 --> 00:00:25.883 We’ll cover everything from new policies and pay raises affecting 00:00:25.883 --> 00:00:29.493 active and reserve forces, to changes in healthcare and benefits for 00:00:29.493 --> 00:00:33.793 retirees, and the latest on VA services and legislation for our veterans. 00:00:34.203 --> 00:00:35.133 Let's get you informed. 00:00:35.373 --> 00:00:36.813 Here’s what’s happened this past week. 00:00:37.089 --> 00:00:39.519 Issues That Affect Active and Reserve Military 00:00:39.839 --> 00:00:43.819 Troop Deployment Amid Domestic Unrest: President Donald Trump federalized 00:00:43.939 --> 00:00:48.369 over 2,000 California National Guard members and deployed 700 U.S. 00:00:48.369 --> 00:00:52.599 Marines to Los Angeles to protect federal facilities during widespread 00:00:52.599 --> 00:00:54.309 immigration policy protests. 00:00:54.869 --> 00:00:58.999 This move, starting June 7, came amid significant unrest 00:00:58.999 --> 00:01:00.419 following immigration raids. 00:01:00.799 --> 00:01:04.549 Armed troops, under strict rules of engagement, focused on defending 00:01:04.549 --> 00:01:06.499 property, not law enforcement. 00:01:07.039 --> 00:01:10.109 Governor Gavin Newsom challenged the action in court, calling 00:01:10.109 --> 00:01:11.869 it unlawful militarization. 00:01:12.509 --> 00:01:16.769 Despite protests and curfews, a federal court initially permitted the deployment. 00:01:17.339 --> 00:01:21.029 Pentagon leaders emphasized that military involvement was for federal 00:01:21.029 --> 00:01:23.479 protection only, not civil policing. 00:01:24.059 --> 00:01:27.389 This rare domestic deployment raised concerns over federal authority 00:01:27.389 --> 00:01:28.999 and civil-military boundaries. 00:01:29.590 --> 00:01:33.700 Defense Leadership Cuts: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered a 20% 00:01:33.810 --> 00:01:38.010 cut in four-star positions and a 10% reduction in general/flag officers. 00:01:38.460 --> 00:01:41.780 The National Guard Bureau will eliminate one-fifth of top officer roles. 00:01:42.080 --> 00:01:44.860 This move aligns with a drive to streamline military 00:01:44.860 --> 00:01:46.540 leadership and reduce overhead. 00:01:47.000 --> 00:01:50.640 However, critics argue it may be politically motivated and damage 00:01:50.640 --> 00:01:53.010 morale by purging experienced leaders. 00:01:53.470 --> 00:01:57.450 The changes could affect promotions, command structure, and military programs, 00:01:57.720 --> 00:01:59.400 leading to a period of transition. 00:01:59.828 --> 00:02:04.438 Policy on Transgender Service Members: The Pentagon began separating service 00:02:04.438 --> 00:02:08.088 members with gender dysphoria, following a January executive order. 00:02:08.618 --> 00:02:13.978 Members had until June 6 to voluntarily separate or face involuntary discharge. 00:02:14.458 --> 00:02:16.768 Those who came forward received separation pay. 00:02:17.308 --> 00:02:21.048 The policy, citing readiness and unit cohesion, drew criticism from 00:02:21.048 --> 00:02:23.238 LGBT advocates and some commanders. 00:02:23.668 --> 00:02:27.138 Legal challenges are expected, and reserve members have until early 00:02:27.138 --> 00:02:29.378 July before facing similar policies. 00:02:29.725 --> 00:02:33.675 Defense Budget and Pay: The House advanced the FY2026 00:02:33.675 --> 00:02:36.465 defense budget, proposing a 3.8% 00:02:36.545 --> 00:02:39.705 pay raise starting in January for active-duty personnel. 00:02:40.205 --> 00:02:43.805 Junior troops may receive about $1200 more annually, and 00:02:43.805 --> 00:02:46.245 officers could see up to $2,500. 00:02:46.765 --> 00:02:50.405 The budget also includes measures to slow PCS moves and 00:02:50.405 --> 00:02:51.955 reduce the civilian workforce. 00:02:52.315 --> 00:02:55.875 Some controversial provisions, such as limits on reproductive health 00:02:55.875 --> 00:02:57.715 travel reimbursements, were included. 00:02:58.165 --> 00:03:02.135 Senate lawmakers expressed concern over lagging budget details. 00:03:02.545 --> 00:03:05.995 Service members await the final budget outcome, which will shape their 00:03:05.995 --> 00:03:08.465 pay, benefits, and quality of life. 00:03:08.735 --> 00:03:11.055 Training Incidents and Overseas Deployments: Sgt. 00:03:11.055 --> 00:03:15.775 Aaron Cox, 24, of the 101st Airborne Division, died in a training accident in 00:03:15.775 --> 00:03:18.425 Hungary during Exercise Saber Guardian 25. 00:03:18.775 --> 00:03:19.865 Another soldier was injured. 00:03:20.145 --> 00:03:21.385 The Army is investigating. 00:03:21.555 --> 00:03:21.885 U.S. 00:03:21.885 --> 00:03:24.725 forces continued deployments in Eastern Europe and the 00:03:24.725 --> 00:03:28.435 Asia-Pacific, while maintaining alert status in Iraq and Syria. 00:03:28.935 --> 00:03:32.545 Reserve troops proceeded with June training, including short-notice missions 00:03:32.545 --> 00:03:34.165 like the deployment to California. 00:03:34.675 --> 00:03:38.405 These developments underscore the risks and demands of military service. 00:03:38.685 --> 00:03:40.695 Issues That Affect Retired Military 00:03:40.991 --> 00:03:45.691 Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) Billing Delay: DFAS postponed a shift 00:03:45.691 --> 00:03:49.801 from Treasury-managed SBP premium payments to DFAS-managed billing. 00:03:50.301 --> 00:03:53.161 This affects retirees who pay directly rather than through 00:03:53.161 --> 00:03:54.551 retirement pay deductions. 00:03:54.991 --> 00:03:58.851 Retirees should continue using the current system until further notice. 00:03:59.341 --> 00:04:02.991 DFAS will provide detailed instructions before implementing the change, 00:04:03.161 --> 00:04:04.601 expected later in the summer. 00:04:05.081 --> 00:04:09.261 Military retiree groups supported the delay, ensuring no loss of coverage. 00:04:09.648 --> 00:04:14.118 TRICARE Updates and Health Costs: Retirees saw modest TRICARE Prime 00:04:14.118 --> 00:04:16.438 and Select fee increases in 2025. 00:04:17.098 --> 00:04:20.618 Annual Prime family premiums rose to $744. 00:04:21.308 --> 00:04:23.238 Co-pays also increased slightly. 00:04:23.638 --> 00:04:26.978 New regional contractors caused some prescription access issues. 00:04:27.518 --> 00:04:32.068 The VA announced upcoming reductions in VA life insurance premiums starting in July. 00:04:32.478 --> 00:04:35.638 Retiree advocacy groups are pushing for smoother transitions 00:04:35.638 --> 00:04:38.388 and clearer communication to prevent service disruptions. 00:04:38.772 --> 00:04:42.462 Retiree Legislation and Tax Relief: Congress is considering 00:04:42.462 --> 00:04:46.042 bills like the Major Richard Star Act to expand concurrent receipt 00:04:46.042 --> 00:04:47.442 for combat-injured veterans. 00:04:47.952 --> 00:04:50.812 Though no laws passed this week, momentum continues. 00:04:51.192 --> 00:04:54.762 States including Michigan and New York are advancing laws to exempt 00:04:54.762 --> 00:04:56.892 military retirement pay from taxes. 00:04:57.372 --> 00:05:00.872 Over 30 states now offer full or partial tax relief. 00:05:01.432 --> 00:05:04.972 Military retirees are encouraged to monitor changes, which can 00:05:04.972 --> 00:05:09.022 significantly affect post-service finances and relocation plans. 00:05:09.339 --> 00:05:13.229 Customer Service Enhancements: DFAS introduced tools on its website 00:05:13.229 --> 00:05:17.349 to allow retirees to download tax forms and submit inquiries online. 00:05:17.809 --> 00:05:21.749 The "AskDFAS" portal received positive feedback for reducing wait times. 00:05:22.159 --> 00:05:25.439 The VA promoted its expanded digital services, including the 00:05:25.439 --> 00:05:29.369 VA Health and Benefits app, which allows users to manage healthcare, 00:05:29.619 --> 00:05:31.609 view payments, and access claims. 00:05:32.019 --> 00:05:35.019 These tools aim to improve accessibility and ease 00:05:35.019 --> 00:05:36.819 interactions with benefit systems. 00:05:37.339 --> 00:05:41.189 Webinars and help lines are also assisting less tech-savvy retirees. 00:05:41.472 --> 00:05:44.772 Issues That Affect Veterans’ Affairs (VA) and Veterans’ Services 00:05:45.174 --> 00:05:49.194 VA App Reaches 3 Million Downloads: The VA Health and Benefits mobile app 00:05:49.354 --> 00:05:52.274 surpassed 3 million downloads, with 1.4 00:05:52.274 --> 00:05:53.344 million active users. 00:05:53.734 --> 00:05:57.324 It enables veterans to refill prescriptions, manage claims, access 00:05:57.324 --> 00:05:59.994 payments, and use a digital VA ID card. 00:06:00.334 --> 00:06:03.074 Officials praised the app’s role in enhancing convenience 00:06:03.124 --> 00:06:04.504 and reducing office visits. 00:06:04.954 --> 00:06:07.804 Continuous updates based on feedback are planned to further 00:06:07.804 --> 00:06:09.174 improve user experience. 00:06:09.505 --> 00:06:13.475 Legislation to Improve VA Claims and Appeals: House Veterans’ Affairs Committee 00:06:13.475 --> 00:06:16.515 Chair Mike Bost introduced several bills: 00:06:16.859 --> 00:06:17.179 H.R. 00:06:17.179 --> 00:06:21.429 3835: Veterans Appeals Efficiency Act to reduce delays and remands. 00:06:21.766 --> 00:06:22.156 H.R. 00:06:22.156 --> 00:06:26.356 3834: Protecting Veteran’s Claim Options Act to ensure veterans don’t 00:06:26.356 --> 00:06:28.216 lose effective dates when appealing. 00:06:28.546 --> 00:06:28.906 H.R. 00:06:28.906 --> 00:06:33.126 3833: Veterans’ Caregiver Appeals Modernization Act for 00:06:33.126 --> 00:06:34.976 fair review of denied stipends. 00:06:35.300 --> 00:06:35.570 H.R. 00:06:35.570 --> 00:06:39.840 3854: Modernizing Claims Processing with AI to tackle backlogs. 00:06:40.222 --> 00:06:44.492 These bipartisan efforts aim to improve timeliness and fairness in the VA system. 00:06:44.846 --> 00:06:49.266 New VA Legal Aid Grants: On June 11, the VA announced $42 million in 00:06:49.266 --> 00:06:52.326 grants for community organizations aiding homeless veterans. 00:06:52.826 --> 00:06:57.116 These funds will support legal services to help veterans avoid eviction, resolve 00:06:57.116 --> 00:06:59.466 civil issues, and remove housing barriers. 00:06:59.726 --> 00:07:02.936 Although announced after this reporting week, planning occurred in early June. 00:07:03.266 --> 00:07:06.606 This continues the VA’s push to end veteran homelessness, especially 00:07:06.606 --> 00:07:07.916 in cities like Los Angeles. 00:07:08.252 --> 00:07:12.682 Oversight on VA Programs and Staffing: Congress prepared for oversight hearings 00:07:12.682 --> 00:07:17.062 on the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) and concerns about its effectiveness 00:07:17.062 --> 00:07:19.092 in helping separating service members. 00:07:19.572 --> 00:07:23.832 Lawmakers also reviewed VA budget shortfalls and staffing issues due to 00:07:23.832 --> 00:07:26.252 expanded eligibility under the PACT Act. 00:07:26.752 --> 00:07:30.662 Reports by the GAO and VA Inspector General highlighted infrastructure 00:07:30.662 --> 00:07:32.932 concerns and quality inconsistencies. 00:07:33.452 --> 00:07:38.212 The VA is finalizing its return-to-office policy to improve service accessibility, 00:07:38.502 --> 00:07:40.502 but unions raised retention concerns. 00:07:40.776 --> 00:07:43.676 Second Amendment Legislation and Federal Retirement Issues: 00:07:43.918 --> 00:07:44.338 H.R. 00:07:44.338 --> 00:07:48.698 1041: Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act would bar the VA from reporting 00:07:48.698 --> 00:07:52.778 beneficiaries to the firearm background check system solely due to having a 00:07:52.778 --> 00:07:54.948 fiduciary, unless ruled by a judge. 00:07:55.458 --> 00:07:56.818 The bill advanced in the House. 00:07:57.193 --> 00:07:59.953 Budget talks in the Senate addressed House-proposed federal 00:07:59.953 --> 00:08:03.153 pension cuts, especially affecting veterans in civil service. 00:08:03.723 --> 00:08:07.263 The Senate aimed to soften these measures but debated options like 00:08:07.293 --> 00:08:11.653 increased pension contributions for new hires in exchange for job protections. 00:08:12.133 --> 00:08:14.943 Veteran groups are lobbying to protect current and future 00:08:14.943 --> 00:08:16.493 federal retirement benefits. 00:08:16.837 --> 00:08:18.147 And that's your Weekly Briefing. 00:08:18.617 --> 00:08:22.327 Staying on top of these changes is key to navigating your career, 00:08:22.437 --> 00:08:24.367 your retirement, and your benefits. 00:08:24.706 --> 00:08:25.676 Thank you for tuning in. 00:08:26.146 --> 00:08:29.776 Be sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, so you never miss an update. 00:08:30.386 --> 00:08:33.606 We’ll be back next week with another roundup of the news that matters most 00:08:33.606 --> 00:08:35.456 to the military and veteran community.