September 2022 Veterans' Resources Newsletter

Dear Neighbor,

We as a nation, when we send our men and women into harm’s way, need to also prepare in advance for the costly impact that war brings to our heroes.

We were slow in our response to our Vietnam veterans and the dreadful effects Agent Orange brought on to these heroes. When we entered our efforts in Afghanistan and Iraq, improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were used with great frequency and with devastating effects. We also learned the harmful effects of burn pits that were used throughout both theaters, seeing our forces facing harmful diseases with few treatments. 

Earlier this summer, we finally put forth meaningful legislation that addresses these issues and provides substantial money for benefits. I wish I could say how soon it will take the VA to implement thew new policies, but the legislation is currently being codified before being put into practice. Based on the cumbersome implementation process, I anticipate some delays before we see any real movement here in Florida's Third Congressional District. My team will continue to push with a goal to deliver relief to our veterans sooner than later. 

We'll have more information on the Camp LeJeune Water Claims in next month's newsletter as more information becomes available. 

As always, we welcome your feedback about what you read here, and if there are any events or announcements you'd like to see featured, reach out to us by clicking here. You can also check our website for new updates on our Veterans' Services tab. And as always, if you're a veteran in FL-03 in need of assistance with any veterans-related issues, please call our Gainesville office at 352-505-0838.

With all that's happening this Congress, it is my greatest honor to represent you and hear from you about the issues that matter most. You can stay up to date with us here, on our website, and on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

In Liberty,

Congresswoman Kat Cammack
Proudly Serving Florida's Third Congressional District
 

Discussing The PACT Act With Veterans From Marion County

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to check in with local veterans from Marion County on their top priorities. We discussed the PACT Act that was just signed into law.

I always look forward to chatting with our veterans from Florida's Third about the issues impacting them, because without their valuable feedback, measures like the PACT Act would not exist. I will always support our heroes, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to be their voice in Congress.

Checking Your VA Lab Test Results

Lab test results are one of the top-five most popular features veterans use on My HealtheVet. It's important to stay on top of your lab test results so that you can work with your provider to make decisions about your health and your health care.

COVID-19 test results are now available without a ‘hold period,’ meaning that they are available online in My HealtheVet as soon as VA has received or processed them.

Military Exposures & Your Health Newsletter

Veterans may have been exposed to a range of chemical, physical, and environmental hazards during military service. Subscribe to the 'Military Exposures & Your Health Newsletter' to learn about the VA’s initiatives for veterans with service since 1990, such as the Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record, research on Karshi-Khanabad, screenings for breast cancer, and more.

You can read the latest issue of the Military Exposures & Your Health Newsletter here or by clicking the button below.

Agricultural Resources Available To Veterans

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Institute for Food and Agriculture (NIFA) recently announced an award of $5 million to community farming programs for veterans. NIFA’s Enhancing Agricultural Opportunities for Military Veterans (AgVets) program specifically targets veterans interested in pursuing careers across the food and agricultural sector.

The aim is to equip veterans with the necessary skills, training and experience that lead to meaningful employment opportunities to strengthen personal finances and rural economies.

Checking Secure Messages In My HealtheVet

You can easily update your My HealtheVet profile to get an email notification when you receive a new Secure Message. You can also learn what other notifications are available from My HealtheVet features, and how to start receiving them.

You’ll get a response to your Secure Messages within at least three working days (usually fewer). You can learn more about getting notifications by clicking the button below.

Veterans' Services Tab On Rep. Cammack's Website

The Veterans' Services tab of Rep. Cammack's website has information on a wide variety of topics, including news from the VA, resources for veterans, and more. These pages are consistently updated so our FL-03 veterans have the most updated information. Additionally, should you need assistance with the VA, our team can help you by opening a case and contacting the VA on your behalf.