PRESS RELEASE

FROM: Jefferson County (JC) Laura Moore, Lead Veteran's Service Officer

RE: "GOV'T SHUTDOWN & VA CUTS-Info..."

"As fears continue to loom about the possibility of a government shutdown and where in the VA cuts are going to be made, I want to take a moment and address these concerns.

*Temporary Government Shutdown-VA compensation and pension payments, VA healthcare. the Veterans Crisis Line, and burials at NCA will continue. For a full list of what the VA offices will continue to be open and what offices will be closed in the event of a shutdown,

please see the attached Veterans Field Guide or snapshot below.

*VA Cuts-VA Secretary Doug Collins reports there will be no cuts to healthcare or benefits for Veterans.

He also reports DOGE is making recommendations but it is he and his staff that will actually decide what will be cut within the VA system.

VA Secretary Collins has been consistent with this message in all interviews I have reviewed.

*Jefferson County VSO Office-This office is funded by Jefferson County and ODVA. At this time, there are no plans to reduce staffing levels or budget. Our County Commissioners, ODVA, as well as Kevin and I are committed to our Veterans. So yes, even if the federal government shuts down, we will be open during our normal scheduled business hours.

In the event anything changes, I promise I will let you know as soon as soon as I know. You will not be left in the dark.”

If you have any questions Laura or Kevin can be reached at 541-475-5228