Office Closure – Farmworkers Day
In observance of Farmworkers Day, the Los Angeles County Department of Military & Veterans Affairs (MVA) and the Veteran Peer Access Network (VPAN) offices will be closed on Monday, March 30, 2026.
During this time, support remains available:
📧 Email us anytime at intake@mva.lacounty.gov
📝 Submit an inquiry online at mva.lacounty.gov/contact-us
☎️ For urgent mental health support, call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 (Press 1) — available 24/7
We will resume regular office hours on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
Office Closure – March 2026 Staff Training
To better serve our veteran community, staff from the Los Angeles County Department of Military & Veterans Affairs (MVA) and the Veteran Peer Access Network (VPAN) will be participating in a full-day training on Thursday, March 5th.
During this time, support remains available:
📧 Email us anytime at intake@mva.lacounty.gov
📝 Submit an inquiry online at mva.lacounty.gov/contact-us
☎️ For urgent mental health support, call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 (Press 1) — available 24/7
We will resume regular office hours on Friday, March 6th.
Thank you for your understanding as we continue strengthening the services we provide to veterans and their families.
Subcommittee Meeting – Justice-Involved Veterans (JIV)
Date & Time:
Thursday, March 12, 2026
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Location:
Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration
1st Floor – Conference Room 140-A
500 W. Temple Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
About the JIV Subcommittee
The Justice-Involved Veterans (JIV) Subcommittee was established by the Los Angeles Countywide Criminal Justice Coordination Committee (CCJCC) to improve outcomes for system-impacted veterans. With strong support from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors and active collaboration from partner agencies, the subcommittee focuses on targeted programming and interdepartmental coordination to better serve veterans navigating the justice system.
What makes this subcommittee unique is that it is led by justice-involved veterans within the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA). Their lived experience ensures that solutions are shaped by those who understand the challenges firsthand—driving coordinated policy, diversion, and reentry strategies that reflect dignity, equity, and community.
Meeting Details
Join us at the upcoming JIV Subcommittee meeting to learn more about ongoing initiatives, upcoming programs, and opportunities for collaboration in support of justice-involved veterans.
Veterans Advisory Commission Meeting – March 2026
📅 Wednesday, March 18, 2026 | 🕐 1:30 PM
📍 Bob Hope Patriotic Hall – Nimitz Room, 8th Floor
Join the Veterans Advisory Commission as they discuss programs, services, and resources supporting LA County’s veteran community.
🔗 Join via Teams | ☎️ Dial: 323-776-6996 (ID: 742 500 030#)
ADA Accommodations: Call 213-765-9679 (72 hrs in advance).
First on the Scene – Training for Emergency Trauma Incidents
The Veteran Peer Access Network Supervisorial District 5 (VPAN SD5) invites veterans and military families to attend First on the Scene: Training for Emergency Trauma Incidents on Saturday, March 14 at VFW USS Gudgeon Ship 8310 in Burbank.
This interactive, hands-on training is designed to equip community members with practical, life-saving skills to use in emergency situations before professional responders arrive.
When an incident happens, every second counts. Participants will learn how to assess an emergency scene, prioritize safety, identify potential dangers, and provide essential interventions until trained responders take over. The course focuses on building confidence, awareness, and readiness in high-stress situations.
Free lunch will be provided at 11:30 a.m., and the training will run from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, March 14
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Lunch: 11:30 a.m.
Location:
VFW USS Gudgeon Ship 8310
1006 Magnolia Blvd
Burbank, CA 91506
Burbank, CA
Parking: Street parking only
RSVP Information
Space is limited to 30 participants. RSVP is required.
Class, lunch, and refreshments are included with registration.
Veterans and military family members of all ages are welcome. Parent discretion is advised due to training themes that include trauma, injury, and disaster scenarios.
Bob Hope Patriotic Hall Marks 100 Years and Launches Its Next Century
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
SB 694 Strengthens Protections for Veterans’ Benefits
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:
- 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