Feb 6, 2026
Host
Rob Couture welcomes Ryan Gallucci, Brittany Dymond Murray, Nancy
Springer, and Gabby Kubinyi for a wide-ranging advocacy roundtable
covering the latest veterans policy updates from Capitol Hill and
beyond.
The
conversation begins with a major update on the Major Richard Star
Act, including the VFW’s new three-part Action Alert strategy
aimed at pushing Congress toward a long-overdue public hearing. The
panel explains why hearings matter, what’s driving resistance, and
how advocates can keep the momentum going.
Next,
the team breaks down major developments in the fight against “claim
sharks,” including recent state-level enforcement actions and
legislation designed to crack down on predatory companies charging
veterans unlawful fees for claims assistance.
The
episode also highlights the VFW–Student Veterans of America (SVA)
Legislative Fellowship and the fellows’ new action alert supporting
H.R. 1965, which would increase the book stipend and tie it to
inflation. Nancy Springer recaps her testimony before the House VA
Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs,
emphasizing survivor-focused legislation and the power of veterans’
stories in shaping policy.
Finally, Ryan shares insights from overseas engagements with VFW
National Commander Carol Whitmore, including visits to service
members and partners in Germany, Poland, and Kosovo—reinforcing why
the VFW remains committed to supporting those still serving
abroad.
Links:
Featured Guests:
Ryan
Gallucci – Executive Director, VFW Washington Office
Brittany Dymond Murray – Associate Director, VFW Public Affairs &
Strategic Outreach
Nancy
Springer – Deputy Director, VFW National Legislative Service
Gabby
Kubinyi – Associate Director, Grassroots Advocacy, VFW National
Legislative Service
Episode Highlights:
0:00
Intro and Roll Call
4:11
Major Richard Star Act update
18:21
Claims sharks progress and enforcement updates
28:14
VFW–SVA Legislative Fellowship and H.R. 1965
39:52
Nancy Springer testimony recap
58:41
Overseas engagement: Germany, Poland, and Kosovo
1:21:25 Good of the Order
