October Veterans Advocacy & Benefits Report: What You Need to Know

The American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA) has released the October edition of our Veterans Advocacy & Benefits Report, highlighting important policy, legislative, benefits, and service developments affecting veterans and military families.

Three developments to know this month:

• Major Richard Star Act advances in Congress. A House discharge petition reached the required 218 signatures, clearing an important procedural hurdle for legislation that would allow certain combat-injured, medically retired veterans to receive both military retirement pay and VA disability compensation. The legislation has not yet become law.

• VA releases new veteran suicide prevention data and funding. VA’s latest annual report identifies 6,488 veteran suicides in 2024. The department also awarded nearly $112 million to community organizations supporting veteran suicide prevention efforts nationwide.

• 2027 Social Security cost-of-living adjustment announced. A 3.6% increase has been announced for Social Security benefits in 2027. Legislation addressing corresponding increases in VA disability compensation and survivor benefits remains under consideration.

The October report also covers other federal and state legislation, VA benefits updates, employment and education opportunities, and important developments to watch in the coming weeks.

[READ THE OCTOBER 2026 REPORT]

ALVA publishes this monthly report to help veterans, military families, advocates, and partners stay informed about policies, programs, and opportunities that may affect them.

Please share it with others who may benefit from this information.

Stay informed. Stay engaged.

American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA)
Defending America, Always
Valor • Honor • Vital

alvavets.org | @alvavets

About American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA):
The American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA) is a registered 501c3 non-profit that exists to help American Latino veterans thrive after their military service, access the benefits they have earned, and enhance recognition of Latino contributions to our nation’s defense throughout its history. ALVA membership is free to all veterans, active duty, guard, reserves, and family members, irrespective of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, age, national origin, or disability status. For more information on ALVA visit https://www.alvavets.org or follow us on our social media channels @alvavets.