Washington, D.C. — The Frederick Douglass Foundation (FDF) is calling on Governor Spanberger to sign SB 315, the SAVE Act, into law, describing the legislation as a balanced and necessary step to protect veterans while preserving their freedom to access the assistance they need to secure earned benefits.
“As a national organization committed to civic education, policy engagement, and strengthening underserved communities including veterans and military families we have seen firsthand the challenges veterans face when navigating the benefits system,” said Troy Rolling, President and Chairman of the Frederick Douglass Foundation. “SB 315 represents an important and thoughtful effort to protect veterans from exploitation while ensuring they retain access to legitimate and ethical assistance.”
Veterans often encounter a complex and difficult process when pursuing disability claims and other benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. For many particularly those in rural, underserved, and minority communities timely and knowledgeable assistance can mean the difference between receiving earned benefits and being left behind.
According to the Foundation, SB 315 strengthens consumer protections, increases accountability, reinforces transparency, and establishes enforceable ethical standards for those assisting veterans with claims. At the same time, the legislation preserves veterans’ freedom to choose the support that best meets their individual needs.
“Protecting veterans does not require limiting their options,” Rolling continued. “Veterans deserve not only our gratitude, but systems that treat them with dignity, fairness, and accountability. SB 315 reflects both compassion and practicality.”
The Foundation also acknowledged the bipartisan nature of the effort.
“We commend the legislators who advanced this measure, including Republican members who demonstrated leadership in prioritizing veteran protections,” Rolling said. “Veterans’ issues should never be partisan. This legislation shows that when leaders work together, meaningful and solutions-oriented policy can emerge.”
The Frederick Douglass Foundation believes that freedom includes ensuring veterans can access the benefits they earned through honorable service without confusion, exploitation, or unnecessary barriers. The organization urges Governor Spanberger to approve SB 315 and affirm Virginia’s commitment to protecting and empowering those who have worn the uniform of the United States.
About the Frederick Douglass Foundation
The Frederick Douglass Foundation is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to civic education, public policy engagement, and strengthening underserved communities across the United States. Inspired by the life and legacy of Frederick Douglass, the Foundation works to advance policies and initiatives that promote opportunity, accountability, and freedom for all Americans.
About Troy Rolling Troy Rolling serves as President and Chairman of the Frederick Douglass Foundation. A longtime civic leader and advocate for policy solutions that strengthen families and communities, Rolling has led national initiatives focused on civic education, veterans engagement, school choice, economic empowerment, and public policy reform. Under his leadership, the Foundation continues to expand its work nationally, equipping communities with the tools and knowledge necessary to pursue freedom and opportunity.
