The goal of the Department Legislative Program is to promote awareness and legislative involvement by VFW Post members to support State and National legislative priorities that affect veterans, their families and their survivors. 

The VFW traces its roots back to 1899, when veterans of the Spanish-American War and the Philippine Insurrection were inspired to form an organization to secure rights and benefits they earned during service through the legislative process. This legislative advocacy has been a foundational element to the VFW's identity today.

Since then, the VFW has been involved in major legislative changes for veterans, to include the formation of the Veterans Affairs Agency, educational benefits, disability benefits and more. We continue this work at the State level and in Washington D.C. to improve the quality of life of veterans and their families.

  

 2025 - 2026 VFW Michigan Legislative Program

 

Michigan Legislative Action Opposing "Claim Sharks" 

In support of the VFW National Legislative Priority regarding VFW opposition to "CLAIM SHARKS" and the Department of Michigan 2024 Resolution on our State opposition to "CLAIM SHARKS" the State Commander issued the attached letter to all members by email on June 27, 2025.

Department Letter to Members June 27, 2025 here:

SB 215 here:

Don't Feed the Sharks Flyer here:

House Appropriations Committee Members here:

House Veterans Committee Members here:

Michigan House full member list here:

 

The following resolutions were voted on and adopted by our membership at the 2025 State Convention on May 31, 2025.  These resolutions will be submitted to the Michigan Commanders Group Legislative Committee for group inclusion and submitted to the members of Michigan's State Legislative delegation.

2025 MI Resolution 1: Special Property Tax Assessments

2025 MI Resolution 2: Expansion of Veteran Property Tax Exemption Eligibility

2025 MI Resolution 3: Expansion of Michigan Vehicle Special License Plate Program

2025 MI Resolution 4: Increase Veteran Access to Michigan Recreational Opportunities by Reduction of Fees

 

The following resolutions were voted on and adopted by our membership at the VFW Department of Michigan 2024 State Convention on June 1, 2024.  Each was forwarded to the members of Michigan's State Legislature.  These resolutions remain as continuing priorities of the Michigan VFW.

Information on Michigan Legislative Priorities:

Michigan Commander's Group Legislative Priorities

2025 VFW National Legislative Priorities Brochure

2025 VFW National Legislative Priorities Webpage 

 

VFW Legislative Issue Position Statements:

• VFW Position Statement on Military Retirement Pay and VA Compensation (Concurrent Receipt)
• VFW Position Statement on Predatory Claim Companies
• VFW Position Statement on Transition from Military Service
• VFW Position Statement on VA Benefits and Suicide Prevention
• The Major Richard Star Act, SB 344
• Don't Feed the Sharks