Legislative

Purpose: The purpose of the Legislative Committee is to provide information and assistance to American Legion Auxiliary members to advocate for the legislative agenda of The American Legion. Standing Rule #5, National Committees – Mission Outreach 

Key Program Statements:

• The Legislative program provides information and assistance to American Legion Auxiliary members to advocate for the legislative agenda of The American Legion.

Comprised of ALA members from across the United States, the Legislative Committee works tirelessly to ensure that the voices of veterans and their families are heard in the halls of government. Their primary mission is to promote and support legislation that enhances the well-being of veterans, addresses the unique challenges faced by military families, and strengthens the communities they serve.

One of the committee’s most significant accomplishments is its work on behalf of veterans’ healthcare. They advocate for funding and resources to improve healthcare services for veterans, ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve. This commitment has a direct and positive impact on the lives of countless veterans and their families.

Additionally, the committee focuses on initiatives related to education, employment, and housing for veterans. By advocating for policies that facilitate access to education and job opportunities, they help veterans successfully transition to civilian life. They also support efforts to provide affordable housing options for veterans, reducing homelessness among this deserving population.

The ALA Legislative Committee exemplifies the spirit of service ingrained in the American Legion Auxiliary. Through their advocacy and dedication, they make a meaningful difference in the lives of veterans and their communities. As citizens, we can also support their efforts by staying informed about veterans’ issues and engaging with our legislators to ensure that the needs of those who have served our nation are met. Together, we can continue to honor and support our veterans and their families.

Get Involved

• Visit The American Legion’s Legislative Website at www.legion.org/legislative to keep current on legislative priorities.
  • The site contains the Legion’s legislative priority sheets and point papers, available for download. The priority/drop sheets outline the Legion’s priorities, and you can “drop” these in your elected official’s office. The point papers provide more information on the issue and the Legion’s position.
• Host a Meet the Candidates Night — a question-and-answer session where all candidates for a specific election are invited to answer questions. It is not intended to be a debate.
  https://member.legion-aux.org/Member/Committees/Legislative/How-to-Host-a-Meet-the-Candidate-Night
• Sign up for Legislative Alerts: Subscribe to the Legion’s Legislative Action Alerts to receive notification when they call on all Legion Family members to take immediate action on a topic
  https://www.votervoice.net/AmericanLegion/Register
• Contact Your Representatives: https://www.votervoice.net/AmericanLegion/Address
• Download a copy of the ALA Legislative Advocacy Guide and follow the suggestions it contains to help build legislative awareness in your community.
  https://www.legion-aux.org/Member/Guides/Advocacy-Guide

Deadlines/Important Dates:

• Unit Report due to Department Chair: April 15.

• Department Chairman Report due to National Committee: May 15.
• Unit Award: Most Outstanding Unit Legislative Program (per division) — submitted by 5 p.m. ET on June 1. Awards form available at National Awards Form.
• Department Award: Best Department Legislative Program (per division) — submitted by 5 p.m. ET on June 1.

Contact

Contact the Alaska Department of the American Legion Auxiliary or American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters to learn more.