First, I mentioned in previous articles that the VA has changed how you access “My Healthevet” and the new VA.gov portals.  I mentioned the February date when using My HealtheVet credentials would stop, and you would have to use ID.me or Login.gov. Lots of veterans had not switched over so they delayed the stop date to March 4. After that date you will have to use one of the other sights.  Fortunately, we have VA’s “My Healthevet” guru Mike Labbe coming to the Hall on March 5 to help folks set up their iPhones, laptops, tablets, or whatever device you are using.  Mike will be here from 1000 to 1500 (that’s 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in case you forgot).  To schedule an appointment either call me at 751-5672 or the Hall at 633-4487; either way, the call comes to me.  Mike schedules 30 minutes for each person so call and make the appointment.  If you are like me, you might consider bringing your significant other and/or a kid or grandkid so they can remind you just how to do it after you get set up.  “I do not control the new sign-ins,” says Mike, “but I have worked with a lot of veterans, so I am a pretty good guide.”  Veterans should bring with them their driver’s license--unexpired and with your current address.  “We hope the driver’s license will be all that is needed, but if we need back up, a passport or passport card, a social security card, and a birth certificate (with seal) can help.”  Mike recommends starting with Login.gov, but ID.me has many options if Login.gov does not work.  

So, we are almost two months into Maine’s 132nd Legislature. Currently I am tracking nine legislative documents (LDs) that have been put into the system that directly affects either the National Guard or veterans.  There are likely others, but I only track those that are assigned to the Veterans and Legislative Affairs (VLA) committee. Two LDs affect the National Guard; one dealing with how Guard commanders can more efficiently discipline through the Maine Code of Military justice and the other requires an act of Congress to activate the guard for federal service. Another LD modifies how the Maine Bureau Veterans Services (MBVS) can make disbursements from the Veterans' Homelessness Prevention Partnership Fund. Maine Veterans in Need (MVN) is part of that partnership so I need to learn more to understand how it affects us. One LD addresses veteran suicide prevention and reporting. And another provides more support for military members transitioning to civilian life. This bill provides $200,000 appropriations for two years to organizations in the state conducting outreach and providing support services to active-duty military members and their families who are transitioning to civilian life. The website I use for legislative information, both Maine and Congress is https://legiscan.com/US/legislation. 

Don’t forget, our state and federal representatives want your input.  We live in interesting times; they need to know your thoughts.