(A version of this article by MOAA staff will appear in the April 2025 issue of Military Officer, a magazine available to all MOAA Premium and Life members. Learn more about the magazine here; learn more about joining MOAA here.)

Welcome to Advocacy in Action, MOAA’s annual campaign to bring our top priorities to Capitol Hill.

As the 119th Congress gets to work, MOAA is ready to champion critical issues for the uniformed services and veterans’ communities. MOAA asks you to send a message to lawmakers to stand up for members of the eight uniformed services, veterans, retirees, and families.

Speak up from wherever you are — at home or on the Hill along with hundreds of other MOAA members and staff who will gather in Washington, D.C., April 9.

[MORE DETAILS: Advocacy In Action 2025]

“Advocacy isn’t just a one-day event. It’s a year-round effort, and every voice matters,” said Maj. Gen. April Vogel, USAF (Ret), MOAA vice president of Government Relations. “Whether you’re walking the halls of Congress, meeting with legislators in your district, or reaching out from home, your engagement shapes the policies that affect our community.”

Legislators need to hear and understand why MOAA’s priorities matter. With a new congressional session underway, many MOAA members might find themselves represented by new lawmakers — whether due to redistricting, retirements, or election results. This change presents a valuable opportunity to connect with your legislators and advocate for the uniformed services community.

“Lawmakers listen when their constituents speak up, and by using MOAA’s Legislative Action Center, you can make sure they hear you loud and clear,” Vogel said. “Every call, email, and conversation helps move the needle.”

[MOAA ON THE HILL: Key Veterans’ Priorities Outlined During Joint Hearing]

MOAA’s priorities for the 119th Congress reflect our commitment to protect compensation and benefits, ensure access to top-tier DoD and VA health care, and address the unique challenges military families and veterans face. These efforts underscore MOAA’s unwavering dedication to those who serve and have served.

This year, MOAA has five issues for members to bring to lawmakers this month and beyond. Click each item to download an issue paper covering the topic in full:

• Improving unaccompanied housing to support readiness and quality of life | Write Your Lawmakers Today
• Advancing the report Ending the Wait for Toxic-Exposed Veterans to ensure timely delivery of earned benefits | Write Your Lawmakers Today
• Passing the Military Spouse Hiring Act to expand employment opportunities | Write Your Lawmakers Today
• Enhancing stability and accountability in the military health system | Share Your Story With MOAA
• Improving caregiving support for families of veterans | Write Your Lawmakers Today

A few steps can help MOAA build strong grassroots connections and advance our legislative agenda.

Legislative Action Center

MOAA is rolling out new campaigns via the Legislative Action Center, allowing you to contact your legislators with just a few clicks. Whether you’re new to the platform or a seasoned user, registering ensures you’re prepared to support our campaigns.

The online portal allows you to find your elected officials, track legislation, and learn about key priorities like housing improvements, health care access, and pay increases. You can also send messages directly to your lawmakers urging support for MOAA-endorsed legislation; campaigns will begin as new legislation is filed.

Pro tip: Once you’ve logged into the center, you can stay logged in by enabling cookies on your browser. This allows the site to remember your login details and provides streamlined access to MOAA campaigns. Avoid clearing cookies, as doing so will require you to log in again the next time you visit the site. Following these steps ensures you’re always ready to take action quickly and efficiently.

[RELATED: MOAA Earns Spot on ‘Top Lobbyist’ List for 18th Straight Year]

Reach Out With Tailored Communication

Another approach — particularly for issues that impact you personally or you feel especially passionate about — is to send a more personalized message to your representatives.

A well-crafted email providing background on your service, highlighting MOAA advocacy priorities, and offering your perspective as a constituent can make a significant impact. Personal engagement sends a strong message that military issues matter to voters in the district.

To connect with your lawmakers, visit their website and click the “contact” tab. You can also call MOAA’s toll-free line to the U.S. Capitol switchboard at (866) 272-MOAA (6622) and to speak with the lawmaker’s office.

Connect With a Chapter

Your local MOAA chapter offers a ready-made network of passionate advocates. Joining forces with your peers allows you to collaborate on outreach efforts, share legislative updates, and strengthen ties with lawmakers.

No local affiliate? MOAA also has several highly engaged virtual chapters.  

We deeply appreciate your commitment to MOAA’s mission. Your advocacy plays a crucial role in advancing the priorities that matter most to the military and veterans communities. Together, we can make a lasting difference for those who serve and have served.