Senator Vogel E-Newsletter

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In this Update:

  • State Budget Update
  • VA Operations Returning to Normal
  • Honoring Our Veterans in the 47th
  • Ensuring U.S. and Pennsylvania Flags Are Made in America
  • Expanding Eligibility for Free Hunting Licenses for Disabled Veterans
  • Veterans Assistance Hours Available in Our Cranberry Twp. Office
  • Veterans Crisis Line

State Budget Update

The FY 2025-26 General Appropriations Act was signed into law on Nov. 12. This year’s state budget increases funding for the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs’ general government operations by 6.6% and increases federal funding for state veterans’ homes by 52.9%.

VA Operations Returning to Normal

With the recent enactment of legislation ending the federal government shutdown through Jan. 30, 2026, operations under the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs affected by the shutdown have resumed normal activity for the time being.

Honoring Our Veterans in the 47th

Our annual Veterans Salute Breakfast was a wonderful success and the Community College of Beaver County and I appreciated all who were able join us to recognize and celebrate the brave men and women who have served our country.

Their stories and service showcased their bravery and selflessness, and they continue to inspire us all today.

The veterans in our communities and those who came before them helped shape America into the strong, free nation we are today.

We are forever indebted to their sacrifices.

Ensuring U.S. and Pennsylvania Flags Are Made in America

All Pennsylvania and U.S. flags purchased by the commonwealth for public display will be made in the United States under legislation approved by the Senate. Senate Bill 784, which requires the flags to be labeled with “Made in the USA”, was sent to the House of Representatives.

Expanding Eligibility for Free Hunting Licenses for Disabled Veterans

Legislation to expand eligibility for free Pennsylvania hunting licenses to veterans who are 100% disabled due to service-connected injuries outside of combat was recently passed by the Senate. Senate Bill 1020 provides discounted $1 hunting licenses to veterans who are partially disabled due to injuries incurred through training, non-combat operations, peacetime duties or other hazardous activities.

Veterans Assistance Hours Available in Our Cranberry Twp. Office

Area veterans are invited to take advantage of our Veterans Assistance Hours at my Cranberry Township district office, 8001 Rowan Rd., Suite 205 in Cranberry Township, on the second Thursday of each month, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Stephanie Wilson from the Pennsylvania American Legion Veterans Assistance Program will be available to help veterans and their families with understanding the benefits they have earned, enroll in the VA health care system, assist with the appeals process, and more. Participants are asked to bring any documentation and paperwork they may need.

For more information, you can contact our Cranberry Township district office at 878-978-2575.

Veterans Crisis Line

The holidays can be a difficult time of year. If you are a veteran in crisis, or concerned about one, free and confidential support is available 24/7. Call the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and press 1, text 838-255 or visit VeteransCrisisLine.net to chat online.

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Please contact me to provide input on any state-related matter, or to receive help in dealing with a state agency.

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