MIL News Weekly

MIL News Weekly 3-9 May 2026 (Episode 49)
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[00:00:00] Weekly Briefing Intro
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Welcome to the MIL News Weekly for 3-9 May 2026, your essential guide to the latest news impacting the military and veteran community. Whether you're currently serving in uniform, a military retiree, a veteran, or a family member, this is your source for the critical updates you need to know.

Each week, we cut through the noise to bring you the most important developments from the Pentagon, Capitol Hill, and the Department of Veterans Affairs. We’ll cover everything from new policies and pay raises affecting active and reserve forces, to changes in healthcare and benefits for retirees, and the latest on VA services and legislation for our veterans. Let's get you informed. Here’s what’s happened this past week.

[00:00:40]  Issues That Affect Active and Reserve Military Personnel
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Issues That Affect Active and Reserve Military Personnel

[00:00:43] Pentagon War Department Rebrand
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A bureaucratic revolution is taking place at the Pentagon. On 8 May 2026, the Department of War—the secondary title formally adopted for the Department of Defense—announced a series of radical reforms. President Trump’s executive order, which was the 200th signed of his term, [00:01:00] authorized Secretary Hegseth to use the "Department of War" moniker to convey a stronger message of national resolve and readiness. On 28 April 2026, the department submitted a legislative proposal to Congress to codify this change permanently, estimating a transition cost of approximately 52.5 million dollars. This cost includes 44.6 million dollars for defense agencies and 3.5 million dollars for the military departments to update signage, letterhead, and digital infrastructure.

Secretary Hegseth’s vision for this rebranded department was laid out in a sweeping 45-minute speech at Quantico, Virginia, on 5 May 2026. Addressing the senior-most leaders of the joint force, Hegseth declared that "the Department of Defense is over" and that the new "War Department" would prioritize "maximum lethality" over "politically correct" culture. He introduced ten new directives aimed at uprooting "distractions" and restoring a warfighting culture. Central to these reforms is the mandate for uniform, gender-neutral [00:02:00] standards in physical fitness and grooming.

Hegseth emphasized that standards must be "uncompromising" and that if they are not uniform, "they aren't standards, they're just suggestions". He also announced reforms to the promotion system, stating that personnel will be promoted based strictly on merit and that poor performers will be removed from the service more quickly.

[00:02:20] COVID Reinstatement Task Force
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In a move toward reconciliation and personnel recovery, the Department of War also issued a significant memorandum on 8 May 2026. Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell announced the establishment of the Department of War COVID-19 Reinstatement and Reconciliation Task Force. This task force is charged with implementing Executive Order 14184, which invites service members who were "unjustly discharged" under the 2019 vaccine mandate to return to service. This initiative is designed to restore the careers of those who left the military during the mandate period and to bolster the ranks with experienced personnel who are now being welcomed back without prejudice.

[00:02:58] Recruiting Medical Triggers
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Recruitment was another major focus of the [00:03:00] week. On 7 May 2026, U.S. Military Entrance Processing Command, or USMEPCOM, announced a significant shift in how it handles medical disqualifications. In an effort to streamline the recruitment process and save resources, the military is now flagging 28 medical conditions at the very beginning of the process. Army Colonel Megan McKinnon, the USMEPCOM command surgeon, explained that these conditions have been identified by all services as highly unlikely to receive a waiver. By identifying these "triggers" early, the military avoids the cost of full medical processing for candidates who will ultimately be disqualified.

The list of these 28 medical conditions is extensive and covers cardiac, orthopedic, and behavioral health issues. Specifically, any aortic anatomical abnormalities or surgical corrections of main cardiac vessels are now immediate triggers. Heart valve replacements and certain types of heart blocks are also on the list. On the surgical side, bariatric surgery other than gastric sleeve, and [00:04:00] any weight-bearing joint replacements will trigger an early disqualification. Chronic conditions like Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, and systemic lupus erythematosus are also flagged.

Behavioral health markers are equally strict, including any history of two or more suicide attempts or the use of antipsychotic or mood stabilizers. This policy comes at a time when President Trump has touted record-breaking recruitment numbers for fiscal year 2025, claiming that every branch is currently setting records in enlistment.

Finally, we must note the release of new files regarding Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena, or UAPs, on 8 May 2026. Under the Presidential Unsealing and Reporting System for UAP Encounters, or PURSUE, the Department of War released never-before-seen files as part of a historic transparency effort. Secretary Hegseth stated that these classifications have long fueled speculation and that it is time for the American people to see the data for themselves. While many of [00:05:00] the materials have not yet been analyzed for resolution, the department intends to release more files on a rolling basis, further signaling a departure from the secretive norms of the past.

[00:05:09]  Issues That Affect Retired Military Personnel
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Issues That Affect Retired Military Personnel

For those who have completed their time in uniform, the week of 3 May 2026 brought a mix of legislative hope and economic adjustments.

[00:05:20] Major Richard Star Act Momentum
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The primary focus for the retiree community has been the sudden and powerful momentum behind the Major Richard Star Act. This bill, which has been a priority for veteran service organizations for years, received a critical endorsement from the executive branch this week.

Major Richard Star Act

• Major Richard Star Act, H.R. 2102 and S. 1032.

• ( https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2102)

• This legislation seeks to provide concurrent receipt of full military retirement pay and VA disability compensation for veterans who were medically retired under Chapter 10 of Title 10 (Chapter 61 retirees) due to combat-related injuries before completing 20 years of service. Currently, these veterans face a dollar-for-dollar offset, where their [00:06:00] retirement pay is reduced by the amount of disability compensation they receive—a policy advocates call the "wounded warrior tax". The bill would benefit approximately 54,000 combat-injured veterans by allowing them to receive both benefits in full.

On 5 May 2026, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth clarified the Trump administration's formal support for the Star Act during a budget hearing. This endorsement is seen as a game-changer for a bill that has historically stalled due to its price tag, estimated at 11 billion dollars over ten years. Hegseth’s testimony indicated that the Pentagon now views the elimination of this offset as a matter of "honoring the contract" with those who sacrificed their health in combat. Supporters in the Senate, including Senator Richard Blumenthal, are now pushing to bring the bill to a floor vote by Veterans Day 2026.

[00:06:50] COLA TRICARE and TSP Changes
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As retirees look toward the financial landscape of 2026, there are several key adjustments to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) and cost-of-living metrics that were [00:07:00] highlighted during this reporting period. For 2026, military retirees received a 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). This adjustment is tied to the Consumer Price Index and is intended to preserve the purchasing power of those on fixed incomes. However, this increase is tempered by rising costs in the TRICARE system. Enrollment fees and deductibles for TRICARE Prime and TRICARE Select have risen by 2% to 3% for the 2026 calendar year, primarily affecting working-age retirees. Furthermore, copayments for brand-name drugs through retail and home delivery services have increased, although generic medications remain free at military treatment facilities.

For those still managing their retirement savings, the 2026 changes to the TSP under the SECURE 2.0 Act are now in full effect. The elective deferral limit has increased to 24,500 dollars, with the age 50+ catch-up limit rising to 8,000 dollars. A critical change for high earners—those making [00:08:00] over 145,000 dollars—is the requirement that catch-up contributions be made on a Roth (after-tax) basis. Additionally, the TSP has introduced a new "In-Plan Roth Conversion" feature, allowing participants to move traditional balances to Roth balances, providing more flexibility for long-term tax planning.

[00:08:19] Federal Pay and Retirement Bills
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Legislative activity this week also touched on the broader federal workforce and retirees through several key bills introduced or advanced in early May 2026.

The FAIR Act of 2025

• Federal Adjustment of Income Rates (FAIR) Act of 2025, H.R. 511.

• ( https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/511)

• This bill proposes a 4.3% pay raise for federal employees starting in January 2026 to help bridge the reported 25% pay gap between the federal and private sectors. While primarily targeting active federal employees, it reflects the ongoing effort to maintain competitive compensation for the workforce that includes many veterans and retired military personnel serving in civil [00:09:00] service roles.

The Equal COLA Act of 2025

• Equal Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) Act of 2025.

• ( https://www.congress.gov/search?q=%7B%22source%22%3A%22legislation%22%2C%22search%22%3A%22Equal+COLA+Act%22%7D)

• This bill aims to eliminate the disparity in COLA calculations between the older Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) and the newer Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). Under current law, FERS retirees often receive a lower COLA than CSRS retirees when inflation exceeds 2%, which can lead to significant loss of income over the course of retirement.

Saving the Civil Service Act

• Bill Title and Number: Saving the Civil Service Act.

• Official Link:(https://www.congress.gov/search?q=%7B%22source%22%3A%22legislation%22%2C%22search%22%3A%22Saving+the+Civil+Service+Act%22%7D).

• This bipartisan bill seeks to prevent the conversion of non-partisan civil service jobs into "at-will" positions without congressional approval. [00:10:00] It is a direct response to proposals that would allow for easier termination of federal employees, which many veteran advocacy groups argue would undermine the stability of the workforce and the delivery of veteran services.

[00:10:11] Maverick Act Saves F-14s
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The retiree community also saw movement on a unique piece of heritage legislation known as the Maverick Act. On 1 May 2026, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed this bill, which aims to preserve the legacy of the F-14 Tomcat.

The Maverick Act

• Maverick Act, S. 3899 and H.R. 4161.

• ( https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3899)

• This act authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to transfer the last three retired F-14D Tomcat fighter aircraft (Bureau Numbers 164341, 164602, and 159437) from storage in Arizona to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama. It provides a narrow exception to current laws that require the destruction of F-14s to prevent parts from reaching Iran. The bill permits the [00:11:00] aircraft to be displayed and, significantly, allows for one to be potentially restored to flyable condition for airshows and commemorative events, provided it is fully demilitarized.

This bill is a significant victory for naval aviation enthusiasts and retirees who served as "Tomcatters." For twenty years, these iconic aircraft have been shredded into bits to ensure national security. The Maverick Act represents a final chance to save the few remaining airframes for public education and historical remembrance. The bill is currently under consideration in the House of Representatives, where it was introduced by Representative Abraham Hamadeh, a Reserve officer.

[00:11:37] Reconciliation Threats to FERS
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Finally, we must mention the ongoing debate over the budget reconciliation package, which passed the House on a narrow 215-214 vote in early May 2026. This package contains several provisions that could negatively impact federal retirement benefits. While a plan to shift the pension calculation from a "High-3" to a "High-5" average salary was removed at the last minute, the bill still includes [00:12:00] plans to eliminate the FERS annuity supplement for most employees who retire before age 62. This supplement is a critical bridge for those in physically demanding federal roles—including many former military personnel—who retire before they are eligible for Social Security. The National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE) has vowed to continue fighting these "onerous" provisions as the bill moves to the Senate.

[00:12:25]  Issues That Affect Veterans Affairs
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Issues That Affect Veterans Affairs

Turning our attention to the Department of Veterans Affairs, the week of 3 May 2026 to 9 May 2026 has been marked by a focus on clinical excellence, administrative accountability, and an intensive push to address the needs of at-risk veterans.

One of the most significant reports released this week concerns suicide prevention. On 6 May 2026, the VA announced that it has set new record levels for veteran suicide risk screening and evaluations. According to the department, 88% of all veterans who received VA care in the previous 12 months have [00:13:00] completed an annual suicide risk screen—the highest rate recorded since data collection began in 2021. Even more encouraging is the data on follow-up care: 96% of veterans identified as at-risk completed a comprehensive evaluation and support plan within 24 hours of their screening. This surge in efficiency follows a 2024 report from the Office of Inspector General that had previously highlighted delays in these critical life-saving steps.

Relatedly, on 8 May 2026, VA Research published new findings that draw a significant link between toxic exposure and suicide risk. The study also touched on the management of chronic pain and the long-term effects of opioid use on dental health. These findings are expected to influence how the VA prioritizes screenings for veterans exposed to burn pits and other environmental hazards under the PACT Act.

[00:13:51] Dole Act Delays and Pay Caps
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On the administrative side, however, there is growing tension between the VA and Congress regarding the implementation of the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans [00:14:00] Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act, or the Dole Act.

Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act

• Public Law 118-210.

• ( https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/8371)

• This comprehensive law, enacted in January 2025, includes over 90 provisions to modernize VA healthcare and benefits. Key features include increasing the home-care expenditure cap from 65% to 100% of nursing home costs, allowing veterans with conditions like ALS to stay in their homes longer. It also streamlines community care referrals for mental health, removing the need for a second-opinion approval if a veteran’s primary VA clinician agrees on the need for outside care.

Despite the law’s passage, lawmakers expressed deep frustration this week over implementation delays. On 4 May 2026, during a House Veterans’ Affairs Committee hearing, members of both parties criticized the VA for falling behind on requirements related to caregiver support and mental health services. Specifically, a group of senators led by [00:15:00] Richard Blumenthal sent a letter to the VA Secretary this week "blasting" the department for ignoring its new authority to pay doctors above the 400,000 dollar salary cap. This authority, granted under Section 142 of the Dole Act, was intended to help the VA recruit and retain top-tier medical talent to combat the "worker exodus" that has seen a net loss of 1,300 physicians since 2025. Lawmakers noted that while the VA has had this authority for 180 days, no waivers have yet been issued.

[00:15:29] VA Wins CDL and Data Sharing
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One area where the Dole Act is seeing successful implementation is in vocational training. On 6 May 2026, the VA announced that it has implemented a key provision of the act that streamlines the approval of Commercial Driver's License (CDL) training programs. Previously, new CDL school locations had to wait up to two years for approval from State Approving Agencies. Under the updated law, these locations can now accept GI Bill students much sooner if they use an already-approved curriculum. This change is designed to help [00:16:00] veterans quickly transition into high-demand trucking careers, which are projected to grow 4% over the next decade.

The VA is also leveraging technology to improve care coordination. On 9 May 2026, the department highlighted the expansion of the Veteran Interoperability Pledge (VIP). This initiative securely connects the VA with 19 major community health systems to exchange medical information. By ensuring that a veteran’s records "follow them" to community providers, the program has already identified over one million veterans at participating facilities, reducing the need for duplicate tests and speeding up treatment.

[00:16:35] Homelessness Surge and CHALENG
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In terms of social support and housing, the VA has been active this week in its mission to end veteran homelessness. On 8 May 2026, the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System hosted a major "surge event". Utilizing a "One Team" approach with over 50 volunteers and community partners, the event provided immediate housing and healthcare assistance to 29 homeless veterans. Notably, 16 [00:17:00] veterans received HUD-VASH vouchers, which provide long-term housing paired with case management. For those who could not be placed immediately, the VA provided emergency hotel vouchers.

Furthermore, the VA is calling for participation in the 2026 CHALENG survey, which was open during the week of 3 May 2026. This survey—the Community Homelessness Assessment, Local Education and Networking Groups survey—collects input from veterans and providers to identify the specific resource gaps in local communities. Data from past years has been instrumental in creating programs like the Homeless Veterans Dental Program and Legal Services for Veterans. This year, the survey is specifically asking veterans to identify the single most important resource needed to end their homelessness, with early responses highlighting the need for credit repair and criminal record expungement assistance.

[00:17:51] New Veteran Transition Bills
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New legislative proposals are also on the horizon to further assist veterans in their transition to civilian life.

National Veterans Strategy Act of 2026

• [00:18:00] National Veterans Strategy Act of 2026, H.R. 8224.

• ( https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/8224)

• Introduced on 9 April 2026 and discussed in committee this week, this bill would require the President to define "veteran success" and develop a unified National Veterans Strategy. The goal is to ensure that the time and resources spent on training service members provide a continued "return on investment" to the nation after they leave the military, focusing on skill translation, entrepreneurship, and health.

Veteran Caregiver Reeducation, Reemployment, and Retirement Act

• Veteran Caregiver 3R Act, H.R. 2201.

• ( https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2201)

• This bill is a top priority for groups like the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) in the 119th Congress. It would extend health coverage and provide bereavement and employment assistance to caregivers after their role in supporting a disabled veteran ends. It is designed to close the gap for those who have sacrificed their own financial and career stability to care for a [00:19:00] wounded warrior.

[00:19:01] VA Apportionment Rule Change
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Lastly, we note a change in benefit administration that went into effect during this period. On 9 February 2026, the VA officially limited the "apportionment" of disability benefits. This means the VA will no longer make new "need-based" payments of a veteran’s benefits directly to their dependents. The department argued that state family courts are better equipped to handle domestic financial disputes and that VA decisions often conflicted with court orders. Moving forward, apportionment will only occur in cases of veteran incarceration or institutionalization. This policy change has sparked debate among veterans, with some expressing concern that it complicates child support and family obligations during difficult transitions.

[00:19:43] Wrap Up and Subscribe
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And that's your Weekly Briefing. Staying on top of these changes is key to navigating your career, your retirement, and your benefits.

Thank you for tuning in. Be sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, so you never miss an update. We’ll be back next week with another roundup of the news that matters [00:20:00] most to the military and veteran community.