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PASADENA (May 2026) — Nestled in the lush greenery and vintage charm of the Tea Rose Garden in Pasadena, women veterans from across Los Angeles County found more than tea and pastries during the Women Veteran Tea Party on May 29. They found shared stories, new friendships, and the company of others who understood their experiences. 

For Lindree Roy, a former Army nurse and veteran of 18 years of military service, attending the tea party was a natural extension of her connection to the veteran community. Roy learned about the event after stopping by a veteran outreach booth at the Los Angeles County Fair, where she received information about the gathering. 

Roy said she makes a point of connecting with fellow veterans whenever she has the opportunity because of the camaraderie and understanding they provide. 

“Being here with so many females, it warms my heart,” Roy said. “They went through the same things — basic training, doing their jobs, caring for military personnel. That brings tears to my eyes and warms my heart.” 

Hosted through a collaborative effort of Veteran Peer Access Network (VPAN) SD1, Jobs. Vision. Success. Southern California (JVS SoCal), America’s Job Center of California (AJCC), and the Homeless Veterans’ Reintegration Program (HVRP), the event offered women veterans an opportunity to spend time with others who share the unique experiences of military service. 

Around the tea tables, conversations brought together women with a wide range of military and life experiences. Attendees included veterans from different eras of service, recently separated veterans, entrepreneurs, caregivers, and current National Guard members, creating opportunities to share perspectives, advice, and encouragement. 

The activities encouraged attendees to get to know one another while having fun. A round of bingo had women moving from table to table discovering shared experiences and sparking conversations. An activity booklet guided participants through creating goals and reflecting on future aspirations. A fashion show brought volunteers to the front of the room to showcase their outfits, while raffles and scratch-off prizes added excitement throughout the afternoon. 

One conversation that stood out to Liz Lopez, a U.S. Army veteran and Team Lead Career Coach with Jobs. Vision. Success. Southern California (JVS SoCal), involved a woman currently serving in the National Guard who sought guidance from veterans who had already navigated the transition to civilian life. 

“She asked us straight out, ‘How do you navigate the veteran world? How do you know about career choices? How do you know about opportunities when you’re out?'” Lopez said. 

The exchange reflected one of the opportunities the event created for women veterans from different generations and backgrounds to share experiences and advice. 

For Lopez, that sense of community was exactly what organizers hoped the event would provide. 

“This was an opportunity to have community, and an opportunity to have fun,” Lopez said. “I think we were successful in that. That’s what they deserve.” 

For Veronica Hernandez, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and Peer Support Specialist with VPAN SD1 – JVS SoCal, the atmosphere throughout the day reflected that goal. 

“Everyone was mingling, everyone was talking,” Hernandez said. “Everyone was exchanging numbers and networks. It was just fun to sit down, have a cup of tea, enjoy the pastries, and spend time together.” 

Hernandez said events like the tea party are especially important because many women veterans may not realize how many others share similar experiences. 

“When I first started that event with the rage room and I gathered all these females, I was surprised and shocked to see how many are out there and hiding,” Hernandez said. “The majority of us live in isolation, and just the fact that we unite and have each other’s back and tell each other, ‘Hey, have you heard about this event? Have you heard about this resource?’ That’s what it’s all about.” 

The event also highlighted the creativity and leadership of women veterans. Hernandez shared a coloring book she created specifically for women veterans, inspired by her desire to provide something uplifting and relatable. 

“I just wanted to show the female veterans that there is something for them,” Hernandez said. “A lot of us go through a lot of mental health issues, and just to have a distraction, something that they can relate to.” 

Roy said the gathering reinforced the value of opportunities that bring women veterans together. 

“As a female veteran, you’re not alone,” Roy said. “There’s others out there. It’s a blessing when you come here for something like this because you know you’re not.” 

As the event concluded, attendees exchanged contact information, shared resources, and continued conversations that began around the tea tables. Every participant left with a prize, but many also left with new connections, fresh perspectives, and a broader network of women veterans representing different generations and experiences of military service. 

Story by Ashley Cohen, Public Information Associate, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and photo by Layla Romero, Public Information Staff Assistant, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

LOS ANGELES (May 2026) — The 2026 Veterans Treatment Court Symposium brought together expertise from across Southern California to strengthen veteran treatment courts and improve outcomes for veterans involved in the justice system. 

The symposium agenda included sessions on serving veterans in custody, Veterans Crisis Response, new and emerging legal updates, trauma responses in justice-involved veterans, clinical considerations and life circumstances for service members and their families, reentry support in Los Angeles County and lived experience perspectives. Additional programming included discipline-specific breakout sessions, a mentor bootcamp track and a networking reception designed to strengthen collaboration among attendees. 

Supporting justice-involved veterans often requires an understanding of veteran culture and coordinated engagement among courts, law enforcement, behavioral health providers, and community organizations. 

“Veterans don’t want to be treated like they’re broken,” stated Dave Weiner, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Secure Measures during the Veterans Crisis Response panel discussion. 

Sessions focused on custody-based programming and reentry explored how structure, mentorship and continuity of care can support veterans transitioning back into the community. Speakers described partnerships that connect veterans with housing, employment opportunities, educational resources and behavioral health support. 

“They talk with each other about how to overcome barriers, as well as get connected with more community resources,” said Army National Guard veteran Janelle Brown-Peters, Assistant Director of Admissions Planning and Data at California Western School of Law. 

Throughout the symposium, presenters emphasized that no single organization could meet every need alone and that collaboration across agencies remains essential to long-term success. 

“We’ve been building these relationships over time, and we’ve been able to get out of our own egos and silos. This is for the best interest of the veteran and the community as a whole,” said Sgt. Patrick V. Blanchfield-Gadut, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Veteran Mental Evaluation Team (VMET), during the Veterans Crisis Response panel discussion on coordinated support systems. 

The symposium concluded with discussions centered on lived experience perspectives, family impact and the importance of support for veterans and their families navigating transition, recovery and reintegration. 

“Just ask. You—or someone in your family—may have military service and be eligible for resources you may not even know exist for yourself, your spouse, your children, and your family,” said Orange County Superior Court Family Court Judge Mary Kreber during the Lived Experience panel. 

Discussions throughout the symposium reinforced the importance of early intervention, coordinated partnerships and continued investment in programs that help veterans access stability, support and opportunities for long-term success. 

The symposium highlighted the value of understanding veteran culture and experiences when serving justice-involved veterans. Organizations looking to build their knowledge and strengthen veteran-informed practices can participate in free virtual and in-person training offered by Secure Measures. Upcoming training dates and registration information are available at www.secure-measures.com/pages/events-calendar. 

Story by Layla Romero, Public Information Staff Assistant, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

LOS ANGELES (April 2026) — What began as a routine Pathway Home Operation in Compton on April 2 became a turning point for 73-year-old Army veteran Ronald Branscomb, guided by a network of partners and his own commitment to stay on track. 

“I was sleeping in the back seat of a friend’s car. You’re not getting steady sleep. It takes a lot out of you,” Branscomb said about his situation leading up to the encounter. 

After losing his identification and his phone, Branscomb lost contact with his caseworker and access to services, pulling him back into homelessness, but things began to turn around when he encountered deputies from the Veteran Homeless Outreach Services Team (VHOST). 

“When he saw us, he recognized the uniform and knew we were there to help,” said Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Sgt. John D. Strosnider, a Marine Corps veteran assigned to VHOST. 

Immediately after that interaction, partners including the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), the Los Angeles County Department of Homeless Services and Housing (HSH), People Assisting the Homeless (PATH), the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Homeless Outreach program, and Homeless Outreach Program Integrated Care System (HOPICS) coordinated efforts to stabilize Branscomb’s situation and link him to support, including securing temporary lodging through a hotel voucher. 

“You never know what someone is going through on their own,” said Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Deputy Julian Ayon Jr., an Army veteran with VHOST who first approached Branscomb. “When you get them to the right people, it becomes a whole different situation for them.” 

With a place to rest and regroup, Branscomb was then referred to the Veteran Peer Access Network (VPAN) in Supervisorial District 4 (VPAN SD4), Veterans Stand Together, where he met Veteran Peer Specialist Luis Lopez, who helped him get a phone and move forward with replacing his identification. 

“It’s incredibly rewarding to be able to help my comrades. Ronald is an Army veteran—a brother in arms—even though we served in different eras,” said Lopez. “There’s a bond of camaraderie we share, rooted in the belief that you never leave a fallen brother behind. That bond is why we do this work: so a veteran knows they’re not fighting alone and that someone has their back.”

Though they served in different eras, Branscomb and Lopez share a common bond as Army veterans, a connection that helped build trust and understanding in those early moments. 

“It feels good. This is a chance for me to rest and get my thoughts back in line,” Branscomb said after settling into his room. “I wasn’t good at doing it by myself. I see good help now, so I’ve got to stay focused and be available.” 

From there, Lopez stayed alongside Branscomb, helping coordinate with the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA) Homeless Services Division (HSD) to move him toward more stable housing. On April 15, he moved into St. Andrews, a supportive housing site in Downtown Los Angeles, a significant milestone in his path toward stability. 

For Branscomb, this moment marked a change. After years of instability, he spoke about approaching what comes next with a renewed sense of focus. 

“Working with people who really care gives me hope,” Branscomb said. “It makes me want to stay committed and keep moving forward.” 

Story by Ashley Cohen, Public Information Associate, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

LOS ANGELES (April 2026) — On the morning of Saturday, April 25, the Warrior Heritage Foundation (WHF) hosted a food distribution at Bob Hope Patriotic Hall, where veterans, students, and community partners packed and distributed food boxes for more than 100 foster families connected to the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). 

The effort was supported by a $25,000 donation of shelf-stable food from Amazon and carried out with volunteers from the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA) and student groups from the University of Southern California (USC), reflecting a shared commitment to service that extended beyond the veteran community. 

“A sense of service is what leads many to join the military,” said Patricia Garza, Operations Director with WHF and lead coordinator for the event. “It’s about continuing to give back after service and finding ways to support other communities in need in a way that brings people together.” 

Throughout the morning, volunteers packed hundreds of boxes full of food, loaded them into cars, and handed out coffee and donuts to families as they arrived, offering small comforts alongside essential support.  For some, the day was more than service. It was personal. 

Jose Jimenez, a Marine Corps veteran and USC student, has legal guardianship of his younger siblings after receiving support through DCFS, giving him a direct connection to the families arriving that morning. 

“Seeing these families, that was me at one point in time,” he said. “Being able to serve them and help them out and give them a smile, it’s a real full-circle moment for me, it’s a real blessing.” 

He said something as simple as a food box can make a meaningful difference for families navigating multiple challenges. 

“It gives us something, one less thing to worry about,” he said. “Because there’s already so many things that are going on in our lives.” 

Across the room, volunteers worked side by side, moving boxes and greeting families as they arrived. 

“I love service,” said Simone Bent, Veterans Claims Assistant III, MVA. “Service is one of the biggest ways to instill change.” She said what stood out most was the mix of people showing up. “We have individuals who are in school, younger generation. We have older individuals. It’s a collective effort, and it gives me hope.” 

She also emphasized the importance of how veterans are understood through that work. 

“We’re not a vulnerable population,” Bent said. “We’re strong… we just need a hand up. We need empathy, not sympathy.” 

For student volunteers like Tehya Romero, a USC sophomore and Naval ROTC midshipman, the day reinforced her connection to service. 

“Everyone says you want to be part of something greater than yourself,” Romero said. “And I think it’s totally true.” She added, “I’m so glad I got to come out and just help out, be part of something greater than myself.” 

By the end of the morning, hundreds of boxes had been distributed, but for many, the impact was found in the connections made along the way. 

“Being able to do something like this… I’m serving people in my community, and it makes my day a lot better,” Jimenez said. 

Story by Ashley Cohen, Public Information Associate, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

LOS ANGELES (April 2026) — For James DeBacco, a second chance was not a single moment. It was a decision, made day after day, to rebuild a life with purpose. 

After serving 30 years in prison, DeBacco, a Marine Corps veteran, reentered the community in 2019 facing a reality familiar to many justice-involved individuals: limited opportunities and an uncertain path forward. 

“I didn’t know what to do with my life,” he said. “Because who’s going to hire somebody like me? I didn’t have any skill sets.” 

Today, DeBacco serves as a Veterans Treatment Court liaison with the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA) Justice-Involved Veterans (JIV) Division. He is also completing his doctorate, continuing a path shaped by growth, accountability, and service. 

His path to that work began long before his release. DeBacco grew up in foster care and later served in the military before his incarceration. After his release, he faced the challenge of rebuilding stability and navigating unfamiliar systems. 

“You go through life and you don’t know anything,” DeBacco said. “And it takes people that trust you and want to believe in you to actually allow yourself to start believing in yourself.” 

For DeBacco, that turning point came through education, connection and the people who saw him beyond his past. He earned an associate’s degree in human services with a focus on addiction studies, followed by a Bachelor of Science degree and a Veteran Services certificate from California State University, Los Angeles. He later completed his Master of Social Work at USC. 

“I live by a simple philosophy, that I’m trying to elevate myself to the highest level that I can so that I can reach back and lift others up to join me,” he said. 

DeBacco also confronted difficult experiences from his military service, including surviving military sexual trauma, something he said was critical to his ability to move forward. 

“That’s not easy to even talk about,” DeBacco said. “But it was being able to talk about that… that enabled me to move forward.” 

That personal experience now informs his work with justice-involved veterans. In his role with the JIV Division, DeBacco helps veterans navigating the court system connect to housing, behavioral health care, benefits and other support that can help stabilize their lives. 

“Where I’m at today in my life is light years from where I’ve come from,” he said. “But it’s because of those experiences that I’ve gone through as how I’m able to reach across the aisle and talk to judges, talk to DAs, and openly have communication and conversations with people that I used to hold contempt.” 

In Veterans Treatment Court, DeBacco works with justice system partners to connect veterans to treatment, services and support aimed at long-term stability. 

“To be a part of the Justice-Involved Veterans Division has got to be the greatest honor that I could ever acknowledge in my life because it really shows that what we’re trying to do is to change lives,” he said. 

That mission is rooted in understanding the trauma many veterans carry, whether from combat, military sexual trauma, personal hardship or the difficult transition from military to civilian life. 

“Trauma is real,” DeBacco said. “But the bottom line is that many veterans don’t really understand when they’re experiencing trauma.” 

For DeBacco, veteran-specific support matters because military service leaves an imprint that is not always visible to others. 

“Veterans go through experiences that nonveterans will never understand,” he said. “From the moment you sign your name on that dotted line, from the moment you step off that bus and for Marines who land on those yellow footprints, your world now becomes transformed.” 

That understanding shapes how the JIV Division approaches its work. DeBacco said the goal is not to excuse harm or erase accountability, but to recognize the humanity of veterans who are struggling and help them access treatment, services and a path forward. 

“Just because you’ve made some poor decisions and bad choices in your past doesn’t mean you’re thrown away,” he said. 

In Veterans Treatment Court, DeBacco sees that transformation take shape over time. 

“It’s exciting to see somebody go through a 12- to 18-month process, get their life back on track and be rebirthed back into society,” he said. 

Second Chance Month, observed each April, recognizes the importance of creating real opportunities for people impacted by the justice system to rebuild their lives. For DeBacco, that meaning is deeply personal. 

“I think having a second chance is priceless,” he said. “Having people believe in you for who you are, not for what you’ve done in the past and risen above, but who you are in the moment and what you represent as a human being in the present.” 

Today, DeBacco is helping others find the support, patience and belief that helped change his own life. Through the JIV Division, that work continues across Los Angeles County, connecting justice-involved veterans to services, dignity and the possibility of a different future. 

Story by Ashley Cohen, Public Information Associate, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

LOS ANGELES (April 2026) — Los Angeles County is accepting applications for Chief Deputy of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA), a key leadership role shaping how veterans access services across Los Angeles County.

This position helps lead the work that connects veterans and their families to housing, employment, mental health care, and earned benefits, in coordination with County departments, community partners, and policymakers to improve access and outcomes.

From initiatives like the Veteran Peer Access Network (VPAN) to homeless services and suicide prevention efforts, this role supports programs that meet veterans where they are and help move them forward.

What this role does:

• Leads operations and strategic direction for veteran services across LA County
• Oversees a team of approximately 70 staff
• Works across County leadership and partners at all levels
• Strengthens programs that expand access to benefits, housing, and career pathways

Who should apply:

• Experienced leaders with at least five years managing complex programs or operations
• Background in areas such as personnel, budgeting, contracts, or administration
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including government, nonprofits, and community partners
• Strong ability to develop programs, manage resources, and drive results
• A bachelor’s degree is required; advanced degrees and veteran experience are valued

Salary Range: $152,556 – $237,255

View full details and apply: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/lacounty/jobs/4971205/chief–deputy-military-veterans-affairs-uc

Know someone who would be a strong fit? Share this opportunity.

LOS ANGELES (March 2026) — Vietnam War veterans, their families, and community members gathered at Bob Hope Patriotic Hall, March 28, for a Vietnam Veterans Luncheon hosted by the Warrior Heritage Foundation (WHF) in partnership with the  Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA), recognizing the service and lasting impact of those who served during the Vietnam War. 

Held in honor of Vietnam War Veterans Day, observed annually on March 29, the luncheon created space not only to mark the national day of recognition, but to reflect on the enduring influence of Vietnam War veterans whose service continues to shape families, communities, and future generations. 

In opening remarks, MVA Director Jim Zenner shared that his appreciation for Vietnam veterans is deeply personal, shaped in part by his father’s service during the Vietnam War. He also acknowledged the role Vietnam veterans have played in shaping the department’s work and his own leadership. 

“I have had many Vietnam veterans mentor me since I took this position, teaching me about the history and the objectives that Vietnam veterans had for this department and the County. What you continue to do means a lot. Success here in Los Angeles County couldn’t happen without you and your generation and what you do, mostly behind the scenes,” said Zenner. 

The program included an open mic, where attendees were able to speak, offering brief reflections and information. The exchange created a more intimate moment within the broader gathering. 

Throughout the event, conversations across tables reflected a shared understanding of service, resilience, and the lasting impact of the Vietnam veteran community. Family members and community partners engaged alongside veterans, reinforcing the generational reach of military service. 

Together, these moments formed a meaningful tribute grounded in lived experience. The luncheon served as a reminder that honoring Vietnam veterans extends beyond recognition, it lives in connection, in continued service, and in the enduring legacy carried forward by those who served. 

Story by Ashley Cohen, Public Information Associate, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

GLENDORA, Calif. (March 2026) —Veterans from across generations gathered for a weekly veteran breakfast on Tuesday, March 24, at Kara’s Korner Deli in Glendora, turning a simple meal into a space for connection, shared experiences, and ongoing support.

Owner Kara Larson has watched it grow from just a handful of attendees into a weekly tradition embraced by the community. 

“We started with about five or six gentlemen, and now we’re up to 80 to 100,” Larson said. “It warms my heart. They’re the most wonderful men and women you’ll ever meet.” 

What began as a small effort to bring veterans together has grown into a consistent weekly space for connection. 

“We started this just to honor veterans,” said Ray Osborne, a Marine Corps veteran who helped launch the breakfast. “I wish we could clone it for other places for people.” 

The support extends beyond those seated at the tables, with community members showing appreciation in small but meaningful ways. 

“Cars drive by and honk, people make signs. It’s very touching,” Larson said. “We love having the veterans here and appreciate their service.” 

The weekly gathering has become a consistent space where veterans can reconnect, build new relationships, and find a sense of belonging among others who share similar experiences. 

“I’d like to say that this is one of the best things that’s ever happened because you meet guys that you think you forgot about,” said Dale Compton, an Army veteran who was stationed in Germany. “The only requirement here is that you wore the uniform.” 

The space brings together veterans from all backgrounds and ranks, creating an environment where everyone is welcome. 

“It makes a whole big difference if you don’t think you’re worthy,” Compton said. “We have everybody here, from privates all the way to generals.” 

For many, the breakfast is more than a routine. It is a meaningful part of their week and a place to share openly with others who understand. 

“I’m a Vietnam-era veteran, and I come here every Tuesday morning to have breakfast with my brothers and sisters,” said Michael Shuner. “It’s a place where we can share conversation, talk about our experiences, and just connect. Tuesdays are the highlight of my week.” 

On March 24, the breakfast also included participation from the Veteran Peer Access Network Supervisorial District 1 (VPAN SD1), bringing additional resource connections directly to attendees. 

“It’s a nice event to provide resources to the community and support local businesses,” said Leo Chirinos, VPAN SD1 Program Manager. “It’s really nice to get out here, break bread with veterans, and show them there are a whole range of resources available.” 

VPAN connects veterans to critical services, including housing and legal assistance, mental health support, and help navigating benefits and claims. 

“We’re so thrilled when we have different organizations such as the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs come here and make resources available,” said Keith Bushey, a founding member, known to friends as “The Colonel”. “If you’re a veteran within a country mile of Glendora and want to have some great chow and even better company, come on over on Tuesday mornings. We’d sure love to see you.” 

While the March 24 event introduces additional resource support, the heart of the gathering remains the same, creating a space where veterans feel seen, valued, and connected. 

Story and photo by Layla Romero, Public Information Staff Assistant, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

LOS ANGELES (February 2026) — For one hundred years, Bob Hope Patriotic Hall (BHPH) has embodied Los Angeles County’s promise to those who serve. On February 21, 2026, veterans, families, and community partners gathered beneath its roof to commemorate the Centennial, celebrating a legacy of service and recommitting to its future. 

Completed in 1926 by Union Civil War Veterans of the Grand Army of the Republic, the Hall was once the tallest building in Los Angeles. It has served as housing for returning World War II service members, a gathering place for military leaders, a filming location for Patton, and today remains a working hub for veteran services and community partnerships. 

“This one-of-a-kind building has been the epicenter for the veteran and military community in Los Angeles County for the last 100 years,” said Jim Zenner, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA). “Across the country, other counties look to Los Angeles when looking for what is possible regarding the local government’s role in supporting and honoring our military and veteran communities.” 

Throughout the day, guests explored historic artifacts and exhibits that reflect the Hall’s enduring legacy. That legacy is actively preserved by dedicated volunteer historians. Beverly Macy and Glen Roosevelt were recognized for their meticulous work documenting the artifacts housed within the Hall. 

Montgomery Hom was also recognized for his leadership in preserving artifacts and celebrating the diverse cultures represented throughout America’s military history. His work ensures that the Hall’s collection is protected and thoughtfully presented for future generations. 

The evening also included a Lifetime Achievement Award presented to Jay Morales, whose advocacy has played a critical role in safeguarding the Hall’s future. 

“There is a strong possibility that the Hall does not exist without the tireless efforts of our next awardee,” Zenner said, recognizing Morales’ long-standing dedication to protecting the building and advancing plans that strengthen its long-term sustainability. 

Zenner reflected on the Hall’s continued relevance in moments of crisis and community need. 

“During the fires last year, we brought dozens of veterans living near the Palisades fire into the Hall to stay with us while the fire was being contained,” Zenner said. “The Department of Military and Veteran Affairs understands the importance of mobilizing our community to solve problems and supporting our neighborhoods with the unique skills, talent, and mindset that our military and veteran community brings.” 

As the Centennial transitioned into the evening gala hosted in partnership with the Warrior Heritage Foundation, the focus shifted toward the next century. 

“Tonight, we have honored 100 years of history,” said Justin Garza, Executive Director of the Warrior Heritage Foundation. “One hundred years of service. One hundred years of sacrifice. One hundred years of Los Angeles coming together under this roof. But history is our foundation, not our finish line.” 

Garza emphasized that the Hall’s future is rooted in purpose. 

“Bob Hope Patriotic Hall was never meant to be a museum. It was built as a living promise,” Garza said. “A promise that those who serve this nation would never stand alone when they returned home.” 

He outlined a bold vision for what comes next. 

“In the next 100 years, this Hall will become the epicenter of veteran advancement in Los Angeles County,” Garza said. “Not charity. Not handouts. Leadership. Veterans are not liabilities to be managed. They are assets to be mobilized. 

Zenner reinforced the importance of partnership in achieving that vision. 

“The vision of the next 100 years is possible with private partners like Warrior Heritage Foundation working closely with us and the ongoing support of our Board of Supervisors,” Zenner said. “To our military and veterans in the room, we need you in the fight with us. We will make sure that it is worth your time and effort to engage with us to move the needle forward together.” 

As the evening concluded, the message was clear. Bob Hope Patriotic Hall is not simply a historic landmark listed on the California State and National Registers of Historic Places. It is an active center of service, preservation, leadership, and community in Los Angeles County. 

“One hundred years ago, this building was a promise,” Garza said. “Tonight, it becomes a launchpad.” 

The next century has officially begun. 

Story and photo by Ashley Cohen, Public Information Associate, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

SACRAMENTO (February 2026) — Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 694 (SB 694) into law Feb. 10, strengthening protections against deceptive and unfair practices related to veterans’ benefits claims. The bill previously passed the Senate on Jan. 26, and the Assembly on Sept. 4, 2025. 

SB 694 amends the California Civil Code and the Military and Veterans Code to strengthen protections during the benefits claims process, including provisions related to deceptive practices, improper fees, and misuse of personal credentials. 

“Veterans earned their benefits through service and sacrifice, and they should never be misled, overcharged, or exploited when trying to access them,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn. “I applaud my friend, Senator Bob Archuleta, for leading SB 694 and strengthening critical protections to ensure veterans and their families can access the benefits they deserve without falling victim to predators.” 

The legislation expands the definition of public social services under the Consumers Legal Remedies Act to include additional veterans’ benefits and clarifies that certain fees associated with benefits claims are unlawful if they exceed what may be charged by U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs accredited attorneys or claims agents. 

SB 694 also prohibits individuals or businesses from requiring claimants to share login credentials or provide access to systems operated by the U.S. Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs, or Department of Homeland Security in connection with a transaction. Contracts entered in violation of these provisions are void. 

Additional provisions restrict charging or receiving compensation for the preparation, presentation, or prosecution of benefits claims, except as permitted under federal law, and establish disclosure requirements for events or presentations related to veterans’ benefits that are not sponsored by or affiliated with recognized government or veterans’ organizations. 

“SB 694 strengthens protections during the benefits access and claims process by prohibiting deceptive practices and improper fees,” said Jim Zenner, director of the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA). “It reinforces the importance of expert claims assistance provided by accredited and accountable professionals, including MVA Veterans Service Officers, at no cost. Friends don’t let friends use unaccredited claims agents for VA benefits.” 

Zenner also discussed SB 694 and the importance of working with accredited Veterans Service Officers during a recent appearance on the LookWest podcast, highlighting how the new law reinforces safeguards and strengthens consumer protections for veterans navigating the benefits system. 

MVA operates a countywide Veterans Service Officer workforce, with accredited VSOs located throughout Los Angeles County. VSOs provide expert, no-cost assistance with benefits claims, including disability compensation, pension, and survivors’ benefits, ensuring claimants have access to accredited support in compliance with federal standards. 

SB 694 was introduced by Sen. Bob Archuleta and Sen. Sabrina Cervantes, with Assembly Member Schiavo serving as principal coauthor. 

Veterans, survivors, and eligible family members can connect with an accredited LA County MVA Veterans Service Officer by visiting https://mva.lacounty.gov. 

Related Media:
Watch or listen to the LookWest podcast episode featuring Director Zenner: 

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1bmJuyLYAAlb2EUxSBNmR5 

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-protections-for-veterans-signed-into-law/id1352051443?i=1000749477404 

•  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lat3WyxR3Rg&list=PLUWDXPiiAM-KPuj2qRPPgmXb4Do1oKeBH&index=1 

Get Connected to MVA Services:
📞 Call: (877) 4LA-VETS
📧 Email: intake@mva.lacounty.gov
🌐 Visit: mva.lacounty.gov 

Story by Ashley Cohen, Public Information Associate, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

Courtesy Photos from Look West Podcast