Public welcome at veteran-focused Legislative Summit Thursday, Sept 20

Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center hosts the Colorado Veterans Legislative Summit, Thursday, Sept 20, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Mt. Carmel Campus, 530 Communication Circle, Colorado Springs. Open to the public, the summit features panel discussions with state and federal elected leaders or their representatives, government agencies, and public-private partnerships supporting the veteran community.

The summit, sponsored by former State Representative Kit Roupe, House District 17, is a forum for legislators to provide updates on veteran-focused legislation and to hear directly from veterans and their advocates on key issues.

“Mt. Carmel is excited and proud to host the legislative summit,” said Retired Army Col. Bob McLaughlin, Mt. Carmel Chief Operating Officer. “I encourage members of the veteran and military spouse community to join us for this great exchange of information and ideas, and I extend sincere thanks and appreciation to our elected representatives, their staff members, and community partners for participating.”

McLaughlin serves as co-chair of MyVA Pikes Peak Community Veterans Engagement Board, along with Kate Hatten, President & CEO of Peak Military Care Network (PMCN). The CVEB represents veterans, advocates, resources, and other stakeholders focused on improving outcomes for veterans, military, and their families. Hatten participates on the veteran homelessness panel at 11:30 a.m.  Following introductions, summit panel start times and focus areas include:

8:15 a.m. Update on the goal for 3 percent of state contracts going to service-connected disabled/veteran-owned businesses

8:45 a.m. Legislative update on state laws and changes

9:15 a.m. Occupational licensing and certifications for veterans and military spouses

10 a.m. The need for a veteran community living center in El Paso County

10:30 a.m. Veteran Business start-ups and job opportunities for veterans

11:30 a.m. Veteran homelessness

12:30 p.m. Q/A session with federal elected representatives on federal veteran issues

1:30 p.m. Closing remarks