Indiana Veterans Have Scored a Big Victory

Indiana Veterans have scored a big victory in the General Assembly. The "Big Four" (DAV, VFW, Legion, and NGAI) worked with Senators Tyler Johnson and Ed Charbonneau to remove language from SB 173 that would have endangered veterans' access to prescription medicines through the Tri-Care program. Thanks to all our Indiana Senators who support veterans.

Vigilance is the price of victory.

Earlier this legislative session, the Big Four became aware of language within Senate Bill 173 that posed a serious risk to veterans who rely on TRICARE and mail-order or online prescription services. As drafted, the provision would have disrupted access to critical medications for many veterans--particularly those who are homebound, disabled, or living in rum! areas where local pharmacy access is limited.

Recognizing the potential harm, the Big Four acted swiftly and collectively. Through coordinated advocacy, direct engagement with legislators, and clear communication of the real-world impact on veterans and their families, we made it clear that any measure interfering with prescription access was unacceptable.

As a result of this unified effort, the problematic language was successfully removed from SB 173. This outcome protects continuity or care for Indiana veterans and preserves their ability to receive lire-sustaining medications through the TRICARE program without interruption.

This victory demonstrates the importance of collaboration, vigilance, and proactive engagement on behalf of those who have served. While this legislative session has shown what can be accomplished through partnership and persistence, ii also serves as a reminder that threats to veterans' benefits can arise quickly and often without clear intent.

The Big Four remain committed to monitoring legislation, engaging policymakers, and standing together to ensure that Indiana veterans earned benefits arc protected today and in the future.