Government Relations
1. National Update -Air Travel Accessibility Heather Ansley provided updates on air travel accessibility, including the 40th anniversary of the Air Carrier Access Act and new lavatory accessibility rules. • Thanked attendees of the Access to the Skies event in Colorado Springs; noted good in-person and online attendance. • Marked the 40th anniversary of the Air Carrier Access Act, acknowledging PVA’s direct role in its passage. • Outlined new requirements effective October 2nd related to onboard wheelchairs and new aircraft accessibility features, including a visual barrier for lavatories on new aircraft. Full accessible lavatory requirements begin in the early 2030s. Government 2. National Update -Veteran-Focused Legislation Relations Morgan Brown provided updates on several key issues affecting veterans. • The Take Care of America’s Veterans Act (TCAVA), which consolidated 63 individual measures, stalled and was not brought back to the floor before Congress recessed. Next opportunity is likely December, though the Senate currently lacks the votes to pass it. • The Act for ALS Act was passed by the Senate on the 28th, extending critical research and expanded ac- cess programs through 2031. The bill now awaits presidential signature. • The Veterans Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) final data point will be revealed October 14th. • Chairman Bost is term-limited and stepping down; Representative Bergman is positioned for Republican leadership. Staff director changes are also anticipated. • Several Democratic committee members are vying for positions on other committees, signaling potential turnover on the Veterans Affairs Committee. • The Senate side is expected to be more stable regardless of chamber control. • PVA is beginning to prepare the President’s statement for the March joint hearing and is seeking member examples in three key areas: VDC denials, problems accessing community care, and VA dental care issues. Congratulations to our Chapter Administrator Joanne who tied the knot with Mike Pope on October 24, 2026