DMVA Advances Essential Updates to Veteran Program Regulations
The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) is actively modernizing regulations to better serve veterans across the commonwealth. Working closely with the Governor's Office of General Counsel, the PA House and Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness committees, and the Independent Regulatory Review Commission (IRRC), the DMVA is updating outdated regulations to reflect current needs.
In August 2024, the DMVA successfully moved to remove the expired Persian Gulf Conflict Veterans' Benefit Program from the Pennsylvania Code following a favorable hearing. This essential step clears the way for new regulations.
The DMVA is now preparing a significant update to Title 43 Pa. Code Chapter 5, which includes modernizing the administration of key state veterans' programs. Updates will focus on:
· Disabled Veterans Real Estate Tax Exemption Program
· Amputee and Paralyzed Veterans Pension Program
· Blind Veterans Pension Program
· Educational Gratuity Program
· Veterans Temporary Assistance Program
The regulatory review process is extensive, involving collaboration with various offices, including the Legislative Reference Bureau, the Attorney General's Office, and the Office of the Budget. Public input is also considered through a comment period.
Though the review process can take up to two years, the DMVA is working diligently to ensure these regulatory changes are timely and impactful, ensuring that veterans and servicemembers receive the benefits and support they deserve.
Unlocking Potential: The ASVAB Career Exploration Program (CEP)
The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs' (DMVA) Policy Team is driving a renewed effort to spotlight the ASVAB Career Exploration Program (CEP), a dynamic tool designed to empower high school students in shaping their futures. The ASVAB CEP isn't just about military careers—it's a comprehensive, free resource that helps students identify their strengths and explore a wide range of career options, from civilian jobs to military pathways.
Through assessments in Math, Science, verbal communication, and technical skills, the ASVAB CEP provides personalized feedback, enabling students to understand how their abilities align with potential career choices. By offering insights into hundreds of career possibilities, this program encourages students to take control of their future, whether they're aiming for college, technical training, or entering the workforce directly.
While the ASVAB is often linked with military recruitment, the DMVA Policy Team is actively working to dispel misconceptions. Taking the ASVAB does not obligate students to military service—it simply opens doors to opportunities, both in civilian careers and the military, for whichever path they choose. Through service in the Pennsylvania National Guard a student can choose both.
The DMVA Policy Team's focus is clear: increase awareness and participation in the ASVAB CEP to ensure students have the tools and knowledge to make informed, confident career decisions. By promoting this valuable program, they're helping young people turn their aspirations into action and paving the way for future success across Pennsylvania.
Federal Congressional Outreach
The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) is actively engaging the state's Congressional Delegation through bi-weekly online briefings that focus on a specific topic each session. These briefings include a 15-minute overview of recent efforts by the Pennsylvania National Guard (PNG) and Veterans Programs, followed by a 15-minute discussion. This format keeps federal lawmakers informed about key initiatives, progress, and policies affecting PNG members and nearly 700,000 veterans.
In the past year, we've highlighted significant achievements, such as the graduations at the Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy, the PNG's transition to a sustainable operational readiness model, the introduction of new senior military leadership, and the outstanding support provided by our six veteran homes. We continue to seek new topics and offer more opportunities for discussion. Interested parties can submit topics by contacting the Office of Policy, Planning, and Legislative Affairs via email at ra-mvdmvalegislative@pa.gov or by phone at (717) 861-8719. These briefings ensure that elected officials stay updated and understand how they can support military readiness and veteran services.