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Vet2B Information Briefing

Session Description. Overview of Veterans Programs for doing business with the government.Benefits for Veterans from VA and other agencies.Guidance on filing a disability claim.Q

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Vet2B Information Briefing

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    1. Vet2B Information Briefing Veterans Doing Business with the Government and VA Benefits James R. (Jim Bob) Rollins Lieutenant Colonel, Retired, United States Army 26 July 2006

    2. Session Description Overview of Veterans Programs for doing business with the government. Benefits for Veterans from VA and other agencies. Guidance on filing a disability claim. Q&A.

    3. Definition of a Veteran (US Code Title 38 – Veterans’ Benefits, Part I – General Provisions, Chapter 1 – General, Section 101 – Definitions) http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=browse_usc&docid=Cite:+38USC101 Active Duty: Discharged under other than dishonorable conditions Active service means full-time service, other than active duty for training Member of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, or as a commissioned officer of the Public Health Service, Environmental Science Services Administration or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Selected Reserve or National Guard Duty: Completed six years of honorable service; Active Duty, not for training for 181 days; or Active Duty, not for training for 90 days during a period of war. Current war periods: Prior to Vietnam War (Mexican Border Period 1916 - 1917, World War I 1917 - 1920, World War II 1941 - 1946, and Korean War 1950 - 1955). Vietnam War: Aug. 5, 1964 (Feb. 28, 1961, for veterans who served “in country” before Aug. 5, 1964), through May 7, 1975. Gulf War: Aug. 2, 1990, through a date to be set by law or Presidential Proclamation.

    4. Definition of a Veteran Owned Business 51% Rule To declare your firm as a veteran owned business, a veteran or group of veterans must have 51% ownership and control of the business. The management and daily business operations of which are controlled by one or more veterans.

    5. Definition of a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business Means a small business concern- Not less than 51 percent of which is owned by one or more service-disabled veterans or, in the case of any publicly owned business, not less than 51 percent of the stock of which is owned by one or more service-disabled veterans; and The management and daily business operations of which are controlled by one or more service-disabled veterans or, in the case of a service-disabled veteran with permanent and severe disability, the spouse or permanent caregiver of such veteran. Service-disabled veteran means a veteran, as defined in 38 U.S.C. 101(2), with a disability that is service-connected, as defined in 38 U.S.C. 101(16). Reference: Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Part 2 Definitions of Words and Terms, Subpart 2.1 – Definitions, 2.101 Definitions. http://www.acqnet.gov/far/

    6. Socioeconomic Programs (Government-Wide Procurement Preference Goaling Program) Small Business - 23% Disadvantage Businesses Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB) - 5% Woman Owned – 5% Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) – 3% Service Disabled Veteran – 3% 8(a) Program – 3% Minority, American Indian, and Woman Owned Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program Mentor-Protégé Programs SBA Goaling Program - www.sba.gov/GC/goals/

    7. Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Concern Program Reference - FAR 19.14 Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 19 - Small Business Programs Subpart 9.14 - Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Procurement Program Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned: 51% owned and controlled by one or more service-disabled veterans Management and daily business operations controlled by one or more service-disabled veterans Veteran as defined in 38 U.S.C. 101(2), with a disability that is service-connected, as defined in 38 U.S.C. 101(16).

    8. Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Contracting (1/2) Set Asides: A Contracting Officer (CO) may set-aside acquisitions for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned (SDVO) Small Business Concerns (SBC) if: The requirement is determined to be excluded from fulfillment through award to Federal Prison Industries; Javits Wagner-O’Day; Orders under Indefinite Delivery Contracts; Orders against Federal Supply Schedules; Requirements currently being performed by 8(a) participants; Requirements for commissary or exchange resale items; The requirement is not currently being performed by an 8(a) participant, and unless SBA has consented to release of the requirement from the Section 8(a) Program; and SBA has not accepted the requirement for performance under the 8(a) authority, unless SBA has consented to release of the requirement from the Section 8(a) Program; There is a reasonable expectation that at least two responsible SDVO SBCs will submit offers; and The award can be made at a fair market price.

    9. Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Contracting (2/2) Sole Source: A CO may award a sole source contract to an SDVO SBC if the CO determines that none of the SDVO SBC set-aside exemptions or provisions apply and the anticipated award price of the contract, including options, will not exceed: $5.0M for manufacturing requirements $3.0M for all other requirements The SDVOB is a responsible contractor able to perform the contract Award can be made at a fair and reasonable price Simplified Acquisition Contracts: A CO may set-aside the requirement for consideration among SDVO SBC using simplified acquisition procedures or may award a sole source contract to an SDVO SBC.

    10. Assets to Help Vets in Business Center for Veterans Enterprise (CVE) - www.vetbiz.gov Veterans Information Page (VIP) VetBiz Video Showcases Corporate Advocates for Veterans Enterprise (CAVE) Government Advocates for Veterans Enterprise (GAVE) Veterans Business Outreach Program (VBOC) - www.sba.gov/VETS/vbop.html U.S. General Services Administration Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned - www.gsa.gov/service-disabled Non-profit and Profit Organizations The Veterans Corporation - www.veteranscorp.org Veterans Business Journal - www.vetbizjournal.com VETFRAN of the International Franchise Association - www.vetbiz.gov/start/vetfran.htm

    11. http://www.vetbiz.gov/

    12. http://www.sba.gov/

    13. http://www.sba.gov/VETS/vbop.html

    14. http://website.veteranscorp.org/

    15. http://www.vetbizjournal.com

    16. http://www.franchise.org/content.asp?parid=356&contentid=549

    17. Veteran Affairs Benefits (Filing for Benefits)

    18. VA Statistics Potentially eligible for VA benefits and services 24.3 million Veterans In 2005, $71.2 billion for Veteran’s benefits and services $31.5 billion for health care $37.1 billion for benefits $148 million for the national cemetery system 7.7 million Veterans in the VA’s health care system 2.9 million sought care in 1995 5.3 million sought care in 2005, with over 54 million outpatient visits VA operates 1,300 medical facilities - 157 hospitals, 869 outpatient clinics, 134 nursing homes, 42 domiciliaries, and 206 readjustment counseling centers VA Benefits - 57 regional offices and 120 national cemeteries

    19. Veteran Records (vetrecs.archives.gov)

    20. eVetRecs (vetrecs.archives.gov/VeteranRequest/home.asp)

    21. Department of Veterans Affairs www.va.gov

    22. Department of Veterans Affairs Two Major Branches Medical and Administration Key Forms VA Form 21-526 – Application for Compensation or Pension VA Form 10-10EZ – Application for Health Benefits

    23. Service Organizations Disabled American Veterans (DAV) American Legion Veterans of Foreign Wars Purple Heart Association Texas Veterans Commission Texas Veterans Land Board http:// www.va.gov/vso/view.asp

    24. http://www1.va.gov/VHI/page.cfm?pg=24

    25. http://www.va.gov/vaforms/

    26. http://vabenefits.vba.va.gov/vonapp

    27. VA Copayment Rates

    28. VA Priority Groups (1/3) Priority Group 1 Veterans with service-connected disabilities rated 50% or more Priority Group 2 Veterans with service-connected disabilities rated 30% or 40% Priority Group 3 Veterans who are former POWs   Veterans with service-connected disabilities rated 10% or 20%   Veterans discharged from active duty for a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty   Veterans who received the Purple Heart   Veterans awarded special eligibility classification under 38, U.S.C., Section 1151, "benefits for individuals disabled by treatment or vocational rehabilitation" Priority Group 4 Veterans who are receiving aid and attendance or housebound benefits   Veterans who have been determined by VA to be catastrophically disabled

    29. VA Priority Groups (2/3) Priority Group 5 Nonservice-connected veterans and noncompensable service-connected veterans rated 0% disabled, whose annual income and net worth are below the established dollar thresholds Priority Group 6 Compensable 0% service-connected veterans World War I veterans Mexican Border War veterans  Veterans solely seeking care for disorders associated with: exposure to herbicides while serving in Vietnam; or exposure to ionizing radiation during atmospheric testing or during the occupation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki; or for disorders associated with service in the Gulf War; or for any illness associated with service in combat in a war after the Gulf War or during a period of hostility after November 11, 1998. Priority Group 7 Veterans who agree to pay specified copayments with income and/or net worth above the VA Means Test threshold and income below the HUD geographic index Subpriority a: Noncompensable 0% service-connected veterans who were enrolled in the VA Health Care System on a specified date and who have remained enrolled since that date 

    30. VA Priority Groups (3/3) Priority Group 7 (Continued) Subpriority c: Nonservice-connected veterans who were enrolled in the VA Health Care System on a specified date and who have remained enrolled since that date  Subpriority e: Noncompensable 0% service-connected veterans not included in Subpriority a above  Subpriority g: Nonservice-connected veterans not included in Subpriority c above   Priority Group 8 Veterans who agree to pay specified copayments with income and/or net worth above the VA Means Test threshold and the HUD geographic index  Subpriority a: Noncompensable 0% service-connected veterans enrolled as of January 16, 2003 and who have remained enrolled since that date Subpriority c: Nonservice-connected veterans enrolled as of January 16, 2003 and who have remained enrolled since that date Subpriority e: Noncompensable 0% service-connected veterans applying for enrollment after January 16, 2003 Subpriority g: Nonservice-connected veterans applying for enrollment after January 16, 2003 NOTE: Angelina County Limits – V+1 = $24.7K; V+2 = $28.2K; V+3 = $35.3K; V+4 = $38.1K

    31. http://www1.va.gov/agentorange/

    32. Agent Orange Registry Ensure all who were exposed receive appropriate medical care. Vietnam veterans, Korea in 1968 – 1969, or exposed during the testing, transporting, or spraying of Agent Orange or other herbicides. 300,000 Vietnam veterans have registered so far. Contacts – 1-800-749-8387 or www.va.gov/agentorange/default.htm. Vietnam Veterans of America (1-800-882-1316).

    33. Why Register? Recognized as Service Connected 12 Cancers: Chloracne; Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma; Soft tissue sarcoma; Hodgkin’s disease; Porphyria cutanea tarda; Multiple myeloma; Respiratory cancers – larynx, trachea, and bronchus; Prostate cancer; Acute and subacute transient peripheral neuropathy Type 2 diabetes and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) Spina bifida in veterans with children (1-888-820-1756; www.sbaa.org; spinabifda@aol.com) Free Medical Exam Used for future claims with VA Become part of the program, so that you will always be kept informed.

    34. http://www1.va.gov/gulfwar/Index.cfm

    35. Gulf War Registry Mission Ensure all who served in the Gulf receive appropriate medical care Investigate and explain Gulf War illnesses, informing veterans and public of progress and findings Put in place all required military doctrine, and personnel and medical policies, and procedures to protect forces in the future.

    36. Why Register Service Connected Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig’s disease 13 signs or symptoms of undiagnosed illness Free Medical Exam Used for future claims with VA 80,814 registered as end of Dec 2000 Become part of the program, so that you will always be kept informed Extended until 31 December 2003 POCs Veterans: 1-800-749-8387 Active Duty: 1-800-796-9699

    37. http://www1.va.gov/Environagents/page.cfm?pg=16

    38. Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom Mission Ensure all who served in these operations receive appropriate medical care Similar to actions taken for Agent Orange and Gulf War. Benefits from Gulf War Registry still applies, since 1991 Gulf War has not been declared officially ended.

    39. Websites for OIF and OEF http://www1.va.gov/Environagents/page.cfm?pg=16 - Listing of current information http://www.seamlesstransition.va.gov/ - Provides information and assistance. http://www.seamlesstransition.va.gov/tips.asp – Provides checklist of items needed to apply for assistance. http://www.wri.med.va.gov/graphic/Veterans/vet_OEF_OIF_evaluation.html – War-Related Illness and Injury Study Center.

    40. http://veterans.iom.edu/

    41. Guidance Worst Case Not Best Case You’re Not a Doctor If Not for You, Your Family Use It of Lose It

    42. Review of Steps (1/3) You have to fill out the paperwork, you cannot get anything for nothing. Minimum, need a copy of your DD214 – Discharge. National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) – Military Personnel Records vetrecs.archives.gov Apply for DD214 and medical and personnel records. Two Procedures – Medical and Administrative (Compensation) Medical – Only gets you into the medical system, not compensation. VA Form 10-10EZ or online at the Veterans ON-line APPlication (VANAPP) Website - vabenefits.vba.va.gov/vonapp/ Based on priority and how applying. (Do not get wrapped up on financial information requirements). Gets you into the VA Medical system. See a VA Doctor at least once a year to keep your file current. Always highlight problems that you are applying compensation for. “Worst Day, Not Best Day” when discussing symptoms.

    43. Review of Steps (2/3) Administrative – You have to apply for compensation, not automatic. VA Form 21-526 – Compensation and Pension Program Application. Only filled out one time, afterwards simple letter is used. Has to be done if compensation is going to be paid. List anything that has happened while in the service. Do not assume it is not service connected - You’re Not a Doctor Three methods of service connection Presumptive Condition – Military Assignments, Location, MOS, Work Location. Medical Records – It is in your medical file or occurred within one year of getting out. Supporting Documentation – Letters, pictures, statements, etc. from fellow service members supporting injury occurred while in the service. Compensation and Pension Physical Exam 3 – 6 months after received by VA Worst Case, not Best Case Have to make the appointments Once Decision Made Not happy, appeal the decision The determination letter, tells you how to apply for future benefits.

    44. Review of Steps (3/3) Backup Documentation Do not delay submitting paperwork for the 100% solution. Clock starts when paperwork submitted, not completed. If medical records not at VA, submit copy with application. If civilian records, try to have Doctor state, “In my medical opinion, this is a result of military service.” Civilian medical is suppose to provide at no cost. If first time application, must have copy of DD214, Report of Separation, to show prove of military service. Remember Do not miss deadlines – if you do, whole process starts over – “Veteran was nonresponsive”. Government agency, not made to be simple or easy. Not there for profit, there for job security. Do not ASSUME – you have to keep checking and making sure the information is correct. Until process is complete, check once a month on medical appointments and administrative progress.

    45. Lesson Nike “Just Do It”

    46. Compensation

    47. Other Programs Cold War Certificate Program - http://coldwar.army.mil/faq.htm Concurrent Disability Pay - http://www.defenselink.mil/dfas/retiredpay/concurrentretirementanddisabilitypay.html Combat-Related Special Compensation (CSRC) - https://www.hrc.army.mil/site/crsc/ TRICARE for Life – http://www.tricare.osd.mil/tfl/default.cfm Korean Defense Service Medal - www.defenselink.mil/releases/2004/nr20040209-0334.html Veteran Medals – https://veteranmedals.army.mil/ Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) - http://www.tricare.osd.mil/deers/default.cfm Military Records - http://www.archives.gov/veterans/

    48. Questions and Comments

    49. Other Links (1/3) www.defenselink.mil – Department of Defense official website. www.archives.gov/research_room/vetrecs/ - National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) for military records. www.moaa.org/serv/serv_benefits_pay/serv_benefits_pay_compensation/serv_benefits_pay_vet_benefits.htm - Good checklist of what should be done. www.va.gov – Department of Veterans Affairs. www.medicare.gov – Medicare and Medicaid Services. www.socialsecurity.gov – Social Security Administration. www.fav.org – Foundation of American Veterans is a nonprofit organization to help Veterans.

    50. Other Links (2/3) www.cms.hhs.gov – Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. www.dmdc.osd.mil/rsl/ - Location of Military ID Card offices. www.dod.mil/dfas/ – Defense Financing and Accounting Service. www.military.com – Unofficial military website. www.tricare.osd.mil – TRICARE military’s health benefits. www.glo.state.tx.us/vlb/general/index.html - Texas Veterans Land Board website.

    51. Other Links (3/3) www.dol.gov/vets/welcome.html – U. S. Department of Labor Veterans’ Employment and Training Service website. www.ncoausa.org – Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) website. www.mvpsoa.org – Military, Veterans, and Patriotic Service Organizations of America website provides list of different organizations that support active and former military members and family members. www.asdv.org – Association For Service Disabled Veterans.

    52. Other Links (4/4) www.tvc.state.tx.us – Texas Veterans Commission website. www.veterans.texasonline.com – Texas Veterans Online. www.hrc.army.mil/site/active/tagd/coldwar/default.htm - Cold War Certificate Program www.veterans.senate.gov – United States Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Homepage www.anysoldier.com – Any Solider Inc. – how to unofficially support soldiers

    53. www.hrc.army.mil/site/active/tagd/coldwar

    54. The Registry of the American Soldier http://www.usarmyregistry.org/home.asp

    55. Contact Information Mail: Angelina College Procurement Assistance Center PO Box 1768 Lufkin, TX 75902-1768 Location: Angelina College Campus, Community Services Building 3500 South First Street (Highway 59), south side of Lufkin Telephone: (936) 633-5432 1-888-326-5223 Fax: (936) 633-5478 E-mail and Website: acpac@consolidated.net and www.acpactx.org

    57. Learn the Talk (1/8) 8(a) - The Program was created in 1974, to help minority and other small disadvantaged businesses (SDBs) to grow through a program of federal contracting preferences and set-asides. Through the 8(a) Program, eligible firms can be awarded government contracts on a sole-source, non-competitive basis. CVE (Center for Veterans Enterprise) - OSDBU office within the VA tasked with assisting VOBs and SDVOBs to find government contracts. CCR (Central Contractor Registration) - CCR is the primary vendor database for the U.S. Federal Government. The CCR collects, validates, stores and disseminates data in support of agency acquisition missions. Both current and potential government vendors are required to register in CCR in order to do be awarded contracts by the government. CMR (Commercial Marketing Representative) - If you’d rather be a subcontractor on government contracts, these are the people to talk to. They work with large prime contractors and help them find subcontractors. DCAA (Defense Contract Audit Agency) - Responsible for performing all contract audits for the Department of Defense, and providing accounting and financial advisory services regarding contracts and subcontracts to all DoD Components responsible for procurement and contract administration. DVBE (Disabled Veteran-owned Business Enterprise) - A small business that is at least 51% owned and controlled by a service-disabled veteran of the military. The service-connected disability can be 0% compensation.

    58. Learn the Talk (2/8) Fedbizopps - FedBizOpps.gov is the single government point-of-entry (GPE) for Federal government procurement opportunities over $25,000. Government buyers are able to publicize their business opportunities by posting information directly to FedBizOpps via the Internet. Through one portal - FedBizOpps (FBO) - commercial vendors seeking Federal markets for their products and services can search, monitor and retrieve opportunities solicited by the entire Federal contracting community. FAR (The Federal Acquisition Regulations) - Roadmap for doing business with the government. The FAR was established to codify uniform policies for acquisition of supplies and services by executive agencies. It is issued and maintained jointly, pursuant to the OFPP Reauthorization Act, under the statutory authorities granted to the Secretary of Defense, Administrator of General Services and the Administrator, National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Statutory authorities to issue and revise the FAR have been delegated to the Procurement Executives in DOD, GSA and NASA. Federal Acquisition Regulation Council - Governing body that ultimately makes FAR interpretations and rulings. Government Impact Card - Government credit card that cardholders may use to make purchases up to $2,500.

    59. Learn the Talk (3/8) GSA (General Services Administration) - GSA is a centralized federal procurement and property management agency created by Congress to improve government efficiency and help federal agencies better serve the public. It acquires, on behalf of federal agencies, office space, equipment, telecommunications, information technology, supplies and services. GSA, comprised of 14,000 associates, provides services and solutions for the office operations of over 1 million federal workers located in more than 8,000 government-owned and leased buildings in 2,000 U.S. communities. HUBZone (Historically Underutilized Business Zone) - The HUBZone Empowerment Contracting program provides federal contracting opportunities for qualified small businesses located in distressed areas. Fostering the growth of these federal contractors as viable businesses, for the long term, helps to empower communities, create jobs, and attract private investment. A small business must meet all of the following criteria to qualify for the HUBZone program: it must be located in a “historically underutilized business zone” or HUBZone; it must be owned and controlled by one or more US Citizens, and; at least 35% of its employees must reside in a HUBZone. Military/Eligible Reservist - A member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces ordered to active duty during a period of military conflict. OSDBU (Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization) - Office at all federal agencies that serve as small business advocates within the agency. Period of Military Conflict - A period of war or national emergency declared by the Congress or the President, or a period of a contingency operation.

    60. Learn the Talk (4/8) PL 106-50 (Public Law 106-50) - Also known as the Veterans Entrepreneurship Act, a federal law passed in 1999 that sets as a goal that 3% of the value of all federal contracts and subcontracts shall be awarded to service-disabled, veteran-owned small businesses. This law also created the Veterans Corporation. PL 108-183 (Public Law 108-183) - The Veterans Benefit Act of 2003, signed by President Bush December 16, 2003. The new Public Law enables SDVOBs to receive sole source and restricted competition contracts for goods and services used by the US government. Congress enacted this statute after data collected from more than 60 federal departments and agencies over a period of three years showed that half of them reported no procurement dollars expanded with SDVOB companies. Procurement Center Representative (PCR) - These people are employees of the Small Business Administration (SBA) and are assigned to larger government buying offices. ProNet - The SBA database that use to be the authoritative source for vendors that were certified in SBA’s 8(a) Business Development program, HUBZone Empowerment Contracting Program and Small Disadvantaged Business program is now merged with CCR (Central Contractor Registration). PTAC (Procurement Technical Assistance Office) - The PTAC mission is to generate employment and improve the general economy of its geographic area. The PTAC will assist businesses seeking to do business with the Department of Defense (DoD), and State and local governments.

    61. Learn the Talk (5/8) Qualified Borrower - an individual who is an eligible reservist and who has an outstanding direct 7(a) loan or a 7(b) disaster assistance loan which he or she received before being ordered to active duty; or a small business that has an outstanding direct 7(a) loan or a 7(b) disaster assistance loan which he or she received before becoming an eligible reservist, who is an essential employee and who has been ordered to active duty. SADBU (Small and Disadvantage Business Utilization) - A less used term meaning the same thing as OSDBU. SBA (Small Business Administration) - Over the past 47 years, SBA has grown in terms of total assistance provided and its array of programs tailored to encourage small enterprises in all areas. SBA’s programs now include financial and federal contract procurement assistance, management assistance, and specialized outreach to women, minorities and armed forces veterans. SBLO (Small Business Liaison Officer) - Person working in an agency or company tasked with assisting small businesses to do business with that agency or company. SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) - SCORE “Counselors to America’s Small Business” is a nonprofit association dedicated to providing entrepreneurs with free, confidential face-to-face and email business counseling. Business counseling and workshops are offered at 389 chapter offices across the country. SDVOB (Service-Disabled, Veteran-owned Business) - A small business that is at least 51% owned and controlled by a service-disabled veteran of the military. The service-connected disability can be 0% compensation.

    62. Learn the Talk (6/8) Service-Connected - Means, with respect to disability or death, that such disability was incurred or aggravated, or that the death resulted from a disability incurred or aggravated, in line of duty in the active military, naval, or air service. 38 U.S.C. 101 (16) Service-Disabled Veteran - Veteran with a disability that is service-connected. Simplified Acquisition Procedures - May be used for contracts up to $100,000 Small Business - Defined as (get from SBA) this varies with industry in terms of annual revs, # employees, etc. Small Business Owned and Controlled by a Service-Disabled Veteran - means a small business is not less than 51-percent-owned by one or more service-disabled veterans or, in the case of any publicly owned business that is not less than 51 percent is owned by one or more service-disabled veterans; and whose management and daily business operations are controlled by one or more service-disabled veterans or, in the case of a veteran with permanent and severe disability, the spouse or permanent caregiver of such veteran. Small Business Owned and Controlled by a Service-Disabled Veteran - means a small business is not less than 51-percent-owned by one or more service-disabled veterans or, in the case of any publicly owned business that is not less than 51 percent is owned by one or more service-disabled veterans; and whose management and daily business operations are controlled by one or more service-disabled veterans or, in the case of a veteran with permanent and severe disability, the spouse or permanent caregiver of such veteran.

    63. Learn the Talk (7/8) Small Business Specialist (SBS) - He or she is an employee of the buying office who helps you get bid opportunities. They know the ins and outs of the buying office and the people you may need to meet. If you have trouble getting the bid or technical data package, they’re the ones to contact. Every federal buying office, civilian or Defense, should have someone with that title. Sole Source - A sole source procurement is a procurement where only one source is practicably available for the goods or services required. Competition is not available in a sole source procurement thus distinguishing it from a proprietary procurement where the product is restricted to that of one manufacturer, but is sold through distributors and competition between them can be obtained. Subcontractor - Federal Acquisition Regulations define “subcontractor” as “any supplier, distributor, vendor or firm that furnishes supplies or services to or for a prime contractor or another subcontractor.” Supplier Diversity - Offices or departments within large companies tasked with ensuring supplier socio-economic class goals are met. The Federal Procurement Data Center (FPDC) - Part of the U.S. General Services Administration, operates and maintains the Federal Procurement Data System (FPDS). The FPDS is the central repository of statistical information on Federal contracting. The system contains detailed information on contract actions over $25,000 and summary data on procurements of less than $25,000.

    64. Learn the Talk (8/8) Veteran - A person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and discharged or released there from under conditions other than dishonorable. 38 U.S.C. 101(2) Veteran Service Organization (VSO) - Veteran Service Organization are non-profit organizations that rely on public donations to support programs that promote citizenship education and volunteerism and facilitate aid for veterans and their families in need of medical, rehabilitative, educational and employment services. They are committed to improving the lives of veterans and service personnel, their families and their communities. VOB (Veteran-owned Business) - A small business that is at least 51% owned and controlled by a veteran of the military. WMBE (Woman or Minority-owned Business Enterprise) - A small business that is at least 51% owned and controlled by a woman or minority. On a federal level, Congress considers a minority owned business as generally anyone other than white. The business must be owned and at least 51% controlled by one or more minorities. Women are not considered minorities.

    66. Texas Veterans www.tvc.state.tx.us - Texas Veterans Commission - Created by the Fortieth Texas Legislature in 1927 as the Veterans State Service Office to assist veterans by informing them of their rights and applying for entitlements. Renamed the Veterans Affairs Commission in 1947 and again in 1985 as the Texas Veterans Commission. It has the mission to guarantee that Texas Veterans and their families receive all the rights and entitlements provided for veterans by law.

    67. Texas Veterans Benefits for Texas Veterans: Employment & Reemployment / Veterans Preference Texas Veterans Land Board Loan Programs Texas State Veterans Homes Texas State Veterans Cemetery Program Free Drivers License for Disabled Veterans Fishing & Hunting Licenses for Disabled Veterans No Cost Medical Records Free Park Admission for Disabled Veterans Free Recording of Discharges Tax Exemption for Veterans Special License Plates Special Parking Privileges Law

    68. Texas Veterans Employment & Reemployment / Veterans Preference: Wartime veterans have preference in employment with State agencies or offices, as do widows and children of those killed on active duty.  State agencies must practice veterans' preference until they have reached 40% veteran employment. Texas Veterans Land Board Loan Programs: The Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB), a division of the Texas General Land Office, administers three veterans' loan programs: The Land Loan Program, Veterans Housing Assistance Purchase Program, and the Veterans Home Improvement Loan Program. Texas State Veterans Homes: The Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB), a division of the Texas General Land Office, administers the Texas State Veterans Homes program.

    69. Texas Veterans Texas State Veterans Cemetery Program:In the November 2001 statewide elections, voters overwhelmingly approved Proposition 7, a constitutional amendment that authorized the creation of up to seven state cemeteries for veterans and their eligible dependents. The cemeteries will be built and operated through a partnership between the Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (USDVA). The USDVA will fund up to 100 percent of the construction and equipment costs. The state will own and operate the cemeteries and fund most of the cost of operations.  Free Drivers License for Disabled Veterans: Texas drivers licenses may be furnished free of charge to veterans who have service-connected disabilities rated 60% or more by the VA or by a branch of the Armed Forces of the U.S. Application must be made prior to the time present drivers license expires.

    70. Texas Veterans Fishing & Hunting Licenses for Disabled Veterans: Disabled veterans are eligible for special hunting and fishing licenses, at a reduced cost. A disabled veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States is one who has a service-connected disability, as defined by the Department of Veterans Affairs, consisting of the loss of use of a lower extremity or of a disability rating of 60% or more, and who is receiving compensation from the United States for the disability. A resident veteran as described in the law may hunt wild turkey and deer without a resident hunting license if he has acquired a resident exemption hunting license. No Cost Medical Records: Under the Health and Safety Code, Chapter 161, Subchapter M, Medical Records or Mental Health Records, Texas veterans are eligible for no cost medical records when they are obtained to file a claim for a disability against the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (USDVA).  The health care provider or health care facility is not required to provide more than one complete record for the patient or former patient without charge.  Also, it should be noted, that some medical facilities will charge a small administrative fee for obtaining the records.

    71. Texas Veterans Free Park Admission for Disabled Veterans: Free admission to Texas State Parks is available to any veteran who has a service-connected disability, which is rated 60% or more by VA, or a service-connected disability, which has resulted in the loss of a lower extremity. Free Recording of Discharges: Under State laws, the County Clerk in each County is required to record, free of charge, the official discharge of each veteran who served in the Armed Forces of the United States of America. This free service is very important as it provides veterans with a ready source from which they can obtain a certified copy of their discharge whenever it is needed. Special License Plates: Disabled Veterans, Former Prisoners of War, Pearl Harbor Survivors, Purple Heart and Medal of Honor plates are among the special license plates available to eligible veterans and their survivors for personal use on their automobile or light commercial vehicle of one ton or less. Disabled veterans must have a service-connected disability rating of 50% or more or 40% due to amputation of a lower extremity.

    72. Texas Veterans Special Parking Privileges Law: If a vehicle has “DISABLED VET” license plates, it may be parked for an unlimited period in a parking space or area that is designated specifically for persons with physical disabilities. If a vehicle has license plates for Veterans with Disabilities, Congressional Medal of Honor, Former Prisoner of War, Pearl Harbor Survivor, or Purple Heart Recipients, it may exempt from the payment of a parking fee collected through a parking meter charged by a governmental authority other than a branch of the federal government. Hazlewood Act: Wartime veterans of the Spanish-American War through the Persian Gulf War, who were legal residents of Texas at the time they entered military service, and Home of Record is listed as Texas on the DD214, are entitled to a waiver of tuition and some fees at State-supported colleges and universities . This benefit is also available to children of Texas servicemen and women who died or were killed in military service, and to children of Texas military personnel who are shown to be missing in action or prisoners of war.  Also eligible are children of members of the Texas National Guard or the Texas Air National Guard killed since January 1, 1946, while on active duty either in service of Texas or the United States. Any person claiming this benefit must have exhausted all Federal educational benefits and be a legal resident of Texas at the time of application.

    73. Texas Veterans Tax Exemption for Veterans: Disabled veterans who meet certain requirements, their surviving spouses and the spouses and minor children of a person who dies on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for property tax exemptions on the appraised value of their property. The exemption is mandatory and applies to taxes levied by all taxing authorities in the State. A veteran, whose service-connected disabilities are rated less than 10% by the Department of Veterans Affairs, or a branch of the Armed Forces, is not entitled to a property tax exemption.

    74. Texas Veterans www.glo.state.tx.us/vlb/ - Texas Veterans Land Board - Since the days of the Texas Republic, Texas has given its veterans land in recognition of their military service. In the days of Sam Houston, that debt for service was paid to Texas veterans in grants of land. Following World War II, this tradition was continued with the creation of the Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB) in 1946 to administer a new program which would provide low-interest, long-term loans to Texas veterans for the purchase of land.

    75. Texas Veterans www.glo.state.tx.us/vlb/ - Texas Veterans Land Board (TVLB) – TVLB Direct Loan - $45,000 for purchase of a home. TVLB Home Improvement Program - $25,000 to make substantial repairs to primary residence. TVLB Land Program - $60,000 for the purchase of a tract of land.

    76. Texas Veterans www.glo.state.tx.us/vlb/vethomes/ – Texas State Veterans Home (SVH) Program – Texas established a veterans home in Austin in 1887 for its brave and deserving Civil War heroes. This home was closed and the property sold in the early 1960s. In 1997, the 75th Texas Legislature authorized construction of four veterans homes in Texas. Locations – Bonham, Temple, Big Spring, and Floresville. Planned – El Paso and McAllen. Services – skilled nursing facilities, designed to serve qualified Texas veterans, their spouses, or Gold Star Parents. Costs - $68.22 up to $109.50 per day – VA, Medicare, Medicaid

    77. Texas Veterans www.glo.state.tx.us/vlb/cemetery/ – Texas State Veterans Cemetery (TSVC) Program – In the November 2001 statewide elections, voters overwhelmingly approved Proposition 7, a constitutional amendment that authorized the creation of up to seven state cemeteries for veterans and their eligible dependents. Locations – Killeen and Mission. Planned – Abilene. (VA National Cemeteries – Fort Bliss, Fort Sam Houston, Dallas, and Houston). Eligibility and Benefits – same as VA National Cemeteries.

    78. Texas Veterans www.dot.state.tx.us/vtr/spplates/allplates.htm – Military / Veteran Special License Plates Airborne Parachutists – Reg Fees + $10.00 Armed Forces Reserve - Reg Fees Congressional Medal of Honor - Free Desert Storm Veteran – Reg Fees Disabled Veteran - $3.00 Distinguished Flying Cross Medal – Reg Fees + $3.00 Enduring Freedom Veterans – Reg Fees Former Prisoner of War - $3.00 Gold Star Mother – Reg Fees + $10.00 Korea Veteran – Reg Fees Legion of Valor - $3.00 Marine Corps League – Reg Fees + $10.00 Operation Iraqi Freedom – Reg Fees

    79. Texas Veterans www.veterans.texasonline.com - Texas Veterans Online - As a military veteran, you and your family are entitled to benefits earned by virtue of your military service. The purpose of this site is to bring together veteran's benefit and assistance resource information for you as a Texas veteran and your family. Veteran's benefit information has been collected from Federal and State agencies to bring together a comprehensive collection of links to provide you with the latest veteran's benefit information. The website contains information to assist you and your family in buying a home or land, receiving education benefits, finding a job, finding health care resources and much more.

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