Veterans Trust the VA. Now Help Us Keep It That Way.

The Department of Veterans Affairs just announced that veterans’ trust in the VA has reached an all-time high. In the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, overall trust hit record levels — a milestone the VA is rightfully proud of.

We are proud too. Because that trust wasn’t built by administrators or political appointees. It was built by you — the nurses, social workers, therapists, pharmacists, case managers, and support staff who show up every day at Hampton VA Medical Center and fight for veterans even when management fights against you.

That trust is fragile. And right now, it is under threat.

What We Won — And What It Means

On March 27, 2026, a federal court issued an enforcement order requiring the VA to restore full compliance with the Master Agreement — the contract that protects your rights as a federal employee and union member. Last week, VA Central Office (VACO) followed up with guidance to every VA facility in the country: return to status quo. Now.

That means official time is restored. Weingarten rights are back. Grievance and arbitration procedures are reinstated. All the tools your union uses to protect you — they are all back on the table.

At Hampton VA Medical Center, we have already sent a demand letter to Interim Executive Director Shane Soto making clear that compliance is not optional. We are watching. We are documenting. And we will enforce.

Congress Is Home Right Now. Talk to Them.

Congress is currently on spring recess, which means your representatives are back in Virginia — attending events, holding office hours, and meeting with constituents. This is the best window all year to make direct contact.

The court won our rights back. But courts can be appealed. What makes these protections permanent is legislation — and that requires Congress to act.

Here is who represents Hampton VAMC employees and how to reach them:

Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA)
📞 (757) 518-1674 (Hampton Roads office)
🌐 kaine.senate.gov/contact

Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA)
📞 (757) 441-3079 (Norfolk office)
🌐 warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/contact

Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA-03) (most Hampton VAMC employees)
📞 (757) 380-0028 (Newport News office)
🌐 bobbyscott.house.gov/contact

Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02) (some VAMC zip codes)
📞 (757) 744-2660 (Virginia Beach office)
🌐 kiggans.house.gov/contact

What to say: “I am a VA employee and an AFGE member at Hampton VAMC. A federal court ordered the VA to restore our union contract. I am asking you to support legislation that makes these protections permanent and prevents future administrations from stripping them away. Veterans trust the VA because of its workforce. Please protect us.”

You do not need a script. You do not need to be polished. You just need to call.

Your Union Is Here

Veterans trust the VA because of people like you. Our job is to make sure you have the protection, the resources, and the representation you deserve to keep doing that work.

If you are not yet a member — or if your dues lapsed — now is the time.

👉 Join or re-enroll: afge.org/L2328

All dues are processed through e-dues (electronic bank debit). It takes five minutes.

In solidarity,
AFGE Local 2328 — Representing the employees of Hampton VA Medical Center