A bipartisan bill backed by U.S. Sen. Angus King, I-Maine, aims to ensure that benefits for military veterans reflect rising everyday costs.
The Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2026 would increase certain veterans’ benefits, including disability compensation, clothing allowances, and dependency and indemnity payments for surviving spouses and children. The increases would align with annual cost of living adjustments set by the Social Security Administration.
Maine is one of the states with the highest rates of military families and veterans per capita.
“This bipartisan legislation helps ensure that disability compensation and survivor benefits keep pace with inflation and continue to provide stability for the men and women who served our country and the families who stand beside them,” said King, a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee.
“Veterans and military families should not see the value of their earned benefits undercut by rising costs,” he added.
King is joined in the legislation by 16 senators from both sides of the aisle.
King has been recognized by veterans’ groups for his advocacy, most recently in March when the American Legion honored him with its 2026 Distinguished Public Service award.
