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In this Update:
September is Veterans Suicide Awareness Month
We must do more to help our veterans, many of whom struggle in silence, burdened by trauma, stress, addiction, and loneliness. That is why, alongside my fellow veterans in the Senate, I introduced SR 141 to designate September as Veterans Suicide Awareness Month in PA. SR 141 sheds lights on the silent struggles many veterans face and bolsters outreach efforts through the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. Please know help is available, you are valuable, and you are not alone. You or your loved ones can utilize the crisis line by dialing 988, sending a text to 838255, or contacting the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs for information and resources on getting the help you deserve. Learn more here. Additionally, join the Suicide Risk Management Consultation Program (SRM) this month for a virtual lecture on preventing suicide among veterans receiving VA-authorized community care. The session will focus on implementing lethal means safety counseling – a strategy to reduce access to lethal methods like firearms. What You’ll Learn:
How to Register in TMS:
For more info and resources, visit the TMS Resources site. Robinson Legislation to Support Disabled Veterans Passes Senate
I am proud to share that Senate Bill 533, a bill I sponsored to remove barriers that prevent disabled veterans from enjoying the outdoors and experiencing the proven therapeutic benefits of hunting, has passed the Senate unanimously! The bill directs the Game Commission to waive licensing requirements for Purple Heart Recipients and disabled veterans who wish to participate in hunting events created specifically for their enjoyment, rehabilitation, and healing. Senate Bill 533 now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. National POW/MIA Recognition Day
On September 19, we remember our prisoners of war, and those still missing in action. Please take a moment when you see the iconic black and white flag flying over government facilities, and honor those who endured captivity and those whose fate is still unknown. Let us ensure their legacy of service and sacrifice is always remembered. Community Highlights
I enjoyed joining Woodville for their celebration of the 250th anniversary of our nation’s military. The re-enactments from different periods in American history were very well-done!
I had a great time at the Glenfield Valley Veterans Association annual corn roast. Thank you for your hospitality!
It was wonderful to meet Bill Roland, the newly commissions State Commander of the VFW. Thank you for your service and the challenge coin!
Thank you to Movement Mortgage and Karis Management Group for providing Heroes Supporting Heroes of Oakdale with a $10,000 Graceworks grant!
It was a great night for a race at Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Motor Speedway honoring military, first responders and scouts. It was awesome to wave the starting flag! Remembering September 11, 2001Once again, we pause on Sept. 11 to remember the tragic events on that day in 2001 – attacks that changed our nation forever. We honor the nearly 3,000 people killed in New York, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania, and hold in our hearts the families left behind. The first responders who courageously gave their lives to save others remain a source of inspiration for a nation brought together in grief and determination to keep America’s enemies at bay. I participated in ceremonies in Harrisburg and Allegheny County to honor and remember our fallen heroes and pray for their loved ones:
I was honored to speak at the Patriot Day ceremony at the Capitol alongside my colleagues and first responders. View my full remarks here.
This year, Representative Natalie Mihalek, members of the community and members of my office each climbed stairs at the Spencer Family YMCA in Bethel Park to honor those who responded on 9/11.
At the AI Horizons Pittsburgh Summit, I gave the keynote address to reflect on September 11th and share my story of infantry enlistment into the United States Marine Corps that same day.
It was heartwarming to see the community come together and honor those killed during the 9/11 attacks at the Service of Remembrance, Reflection and Faith at Sunny Slopes in South Park.
In remembrance for those lost 24 years ago, I was humbled to speak at the annual Knights of Columbus 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony. New Law Extends PA Guard Family Education Benefit
The Military Family Education Program (MFEP) covers the cost of a state college education for dependents of Pennsylvania National Guard members in return for a six-year service obligation. We passed a new law ensuring additional dependents are covered each time the member reenlists. The benefit encourages talented Guard members to continue their service to the commonwealth and nation. Many Guard members who benefited from the original MFEP are now deciding whether to commit to another six years. Act 32 of 2025 clarifies that a Guard member can receive a new MFEP assistance grant – helping an additional dependent – with each new service obligation. I was proud to support this family benefit for our men and women in uniform. Urging Congress to Support the Major Richard Star Act
In late July, the Senate passed a resolution urging the U.S. Congress to support the Major Richard Star Act (H.R. 2102) under which former Service members who were medically retired from the military with less than 20 years of service (Chapter 61 retirees) AND are eligible for Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC) would no longer have to forfeit a portion of the benefits they earned in service. VA Announces Longer Access to Community Care Services
Veterans referred by the VA to community care for essential specialty services – including cardiology, gastroenterology, oncology and hematology, orthopedic and pulmonary care – will now receive 12 full months of uninterrupted treatment at VA expense before having to obtain a reauthorization from the VA. Prior to this change announced by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, community care referrals often needed to be reevaluated every 90 to 180 days, which could cause interrupted or delayed care. Financial Help for Pennsylvania Veterans Facing Hardship
The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs offers financial support to veterans and their surviving dependents facing unexpected financial hardship through the Veterans Temporary Assistance (VTA) Program. If you’re experiencing an unexpected financial crisis, the VTA program can provide up to $1,600 per year to help cover essential needs like:
This program is designed to offer short-term relief during tough times, ensuring veterans and their families have the support they need. Congress Considering 2026 Federal Funding for Veterans Programs
Veterans’ health care programs and benefits programs will be fully funded next year under legislation recently considered in the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. The most recent version of the bill, as passed by the Senate, allocates approximately $300 billion for mandatory veterans’ benefits, including disability compensation, education assistance, vocational rehabilitation and employment training. The bill is now back in the House for consideration of changes made by the Senate. College Football Shows Appreciation for Veterans
Retired military can receive free tickets through VetTix to the University of Pittsburgh Panthers vs. Boston College Oct. 4 matchup for Pitt’s annual Hail to Heroes game at Acrisure Stadium. Starting at noon on Sept. 17, veterans can request two complementary tickets to see the Penn State Nittany Lions vs. Indiana during PSU’s annual Military Appreciation football game Nov. 8 at Beaver Stadium. Two additional tickets can be purchased at a discounted rate of $35 each. Tickets will only be available as long as supplies last but all veterans with proof of military service are invited to a free Military Appreciation Tailgate before the game at the Bryce Jordan Center. Helping Veterans Get into College
Tuition Assistance for Veterans
Colleges That Support Veterans
Military Friendly® Schools issues an annual designation to colleges and universities recognized for their commitment to being better for veterans. Pennsylvania has over 35 schools among the 2025-26 Military Friendly Schools rankings. Support for Veteran Students
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