Momentum Builds for Veteran-Focused Legislation in Sacramento
March proved to be a pivotal month for veterans advocacy in California, with dozens of bills advancing through the Legislature that directly impact service members, veterans, and their families. From tax relief and education benefits to housing, mental health, and recognition initiatives, the legislative landscape is active—and CAL EANGUS members should be paying close attention.
A Strong Start to the Legislative Season
As bills introduced earlier this year begin moving into committee hearings, lawmakers are now debating which measures will advance. Several key proposals have already gained traction, supported by a unified coalition of veteran service organizations—including the American Legion, AMVETS, CSCVC, MOAA, and VVA. This level of alignment sends a powerful message to legislators about the priorities of California’s veteran community.
At the same time, the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) is undergoing its annual budget review, a critical process that will determine funding levels for essential veteran programs statewide.
Key Legislative Priorities
A number of high-impact bills are currently being tracked, with several aligning closely with long-standing CAL EANGUS priorities:
Tax Relief for Veterans
Efforts continue to eliminate or reduce the tax burden on military retirees and disabled veterans. Multiple bills—including SB 1407 and AB 2016—seek to exempt military retirement pay from state income taxes, bringing California in line with most other states. Additional proposals aim to expand property tax relief for disabled veterans and, in some cases, pursue constitutional amendments to create long-term protections.
Education & Transition Support
Legislation such as SB 892 would allow veterans and service members to receive priority class registration at California colleges—an important step in supporting education and career transitions. Other bills focus on in-state tuition protections for military families and easing school enrollment challenges for military children.
Strengthening Local Veteran Support
County Veterans Service Officers (CVSOs) play a critical role in connecting veterans to benefits. Proposed legislation would provide additional resources to these offices, ensuring veterans receive timely and effective assistance navigating VA systems.
Mental Health Innovation
One of the more forward-leaning proposals this session includes the California Veterans’ Right to Try Act, which would allow clinical trials using emerging therapies—such as MDMA and psilocybin—for veterans suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and other service-related conditions. This reflects a growing national focus on innovative approaches to veteran mental health care.
Housing, Food Security, and Quality of Life
Additional bills address veteran housing through programs like Homekey, expand access to food assistance, and improve access to state parks for veterans and Gold Star families. These measures aim to enhance overall quality of life and address real-world challenges facing the veteran community.
Advocacy in Action
Advocacy efforts remained strong throughout March. Veteran representatives provided testimony in legislative committees, reinforcing that the veteran community is organized, engaged, and paying attention.
A key driver of grassroots engagement continues to be the Rapid Response Team (RRT), which has grown to over 85 members statewide. Meeting regularly, the RRT connects veterans directly with legislative developments and provides opportunities to engage with lawmakers and their staff.
Why Grassroots Advocacy Matters
The most impactful advocacy doesn’t happen in Sacramento—it happens at home. When veterans engage directly with their local legislators, sharing personal stories and explaining how policies affect their lives, it creates a level of influence that no formal testimony can match.
Platforms like Bear Flag Veterans make it easier than ever to contact legislators, track bills, and ensure the veteran voice is heard—especially during critical stages like Appropriations, where legislation can quietly stall without public input.
Looking Ahead: April and Beyond
April marks a critical phase in the legislative calendar, with key committee deadlines approaching. Bills that fail to advance risk losing momentum, while those moving forward will soon face the Appropriations process—often considered the most challenging hurdle.
For CAL EANGUS members, this is the time to stay informed, get engaged, and take action. Whether through local outreach, participation in advocacy networks, or direct communication with legislators, every voice matters.
Final Thoughts
The message is clear: advocacy works—but only when we show up.
CAL EANGUS members have a unique opportunity to shape policies that directly impact the Guard, veterans, retirees, and their families. As this legislative session progresses, continued engagement will be critical to ensuring these priorities cross the finish line.
If you don’t use your voice, someone else will make the decision for you.
