TRICARE Fee Increases

In last Friday’s AFSA Alert we highlighted several proposals DoD says will be included in the Presidents FY 2013 Budget Proposal to Congress later this month. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta released preliminary information on January 26 which includes a number of changes (increases) in TRICARE premiums and fees.

To quickly recap, the Administration plans to raise TRICARE Prime enrollment fees for retirees under age 65 in the TRICARE program using a tiered approach based on retired pay; establish a new enrollment fee for TRICARE for Life, again using a tiered approach; and raise pharmacy copays in a manner that increases incentives for use of generics and the Mail Order Pharmacy.

Needless to say, word of these proposals upset many of you and some asked AFSA for more details. We don’t have any—and won’t until the President submits his formal proposal to Congress on or about February 13, which is a week later than required by law. Past recommendations provide clues to what the Administration is planning. Reports by the Task Force on the Future of Military Healthcare in 2007, the Pentagon’s 10th Quadrennial Review of Military Compensation in 2008 and Presidents Deficit Reduction Commission in 2010 all called for higher fees based on income which would increase annual TRICARE Prime premiums nearly six-fold for many users. All three reports suggested annual fees for TRICARE Standard and TRICARE for Life, as well as increases in pharmacy copays. The President’s $4.4 trillion deficit-reduction plan released in August 2011 proposed extremely large increases in TRICARE pharmacy co-pays (doubling or tripling them), and a $200 enrollment fee for those using Tricare for Life. The TFL fee would climb to $295 the following year and then be indexed to a rate of healthcare inflation in future years.

Secretary Panetta’s announcement that the Administration will seek higher fees serves as a warning shot for a fight that will begin once the President submits his official FY 2013 budget proposal. Congress must still agree to whatever they propose, and their approval or disapproval of the fee changes won’t likely be known for quite some time. AFSA will be working to affect their decision, and call upon our members at appropriate times to voice their opposition to these efforts which serve as a disincentive for career military service and shift the cost of earned healthcare onto the backs of retirees and their families. Today, our CEO met with Congressman Walter Jones (R-NC) to lay the groundwork for the battle ahead. Jones is the author of H.R. 1092, the Military Retirees Health Care Protection Act. On Monday, the CEO met with Senator Mark Begich (D-AK) to discuss the same issue and ensuing discussions in the Senate. Senator Begich is on both the Senate Armed Services Committee and the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee.

SPECIAL NOTE: On 25 January 2012, a letter was sent to each member of the House Armed Services Committee concerning defense spending and recommendations concerning compensation, TRICARE enrollment and deductible fees increases for retirees, and Pharmacy co-pays. All TMC member associations received a copy of that communiqué that was signed by each DOD service chief (4-star) and their respective senior enlisted (i.e., USACSM, CMSAF, USMCSGM, MCPON, NGBCMS, MCPOCG).

“Doc Fix” Update

Last December, Congress approved legislation temporarily postponing a 27.4 percent reduction in Medicare and TRICARE reimbursement rates. The provision was part of a payroll tax-cut package due to expire at the end of this month.

This week, lawmakers were working on a package (H.R. 3630) which would extend the current policy through the rest of this year. Members in both parties agree continuing current reimbursement rates are necessary to ensure patients access to quality care. Though the central issue is resolved—that an extension is necessary—funding H.R. 3630 in a manner House and Senate Members can agree on won’t come easily. Many lawmakers do not want to raise taxes or add to the deficit with this bill so the costs must come through savings in other government programs.

Where the money comes and the sheer cost of a permanent fix has been major stumbling points in the past. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the cost of simply freezing rates at their current level through 2022 is $316 billion—up from a $290 billion price tag calculated last year. Recently, lawmakers seem open to using projected war savings as a way to pay for a permanent fix. Yesterday, CBO published a budget and economic outlook report indicating there is more than enough in projected war savings to pay for a repeal of the sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula. The SGR is the formula used to set payment rates for physicians who treat TRICARE and Medicare patients. We surmise the release of this report isn’t coincidental, and won’t be surprised if Congress taps into some of these funds for an agreement we hope they will reach prior to the February 29 deadline.

Access to quality care is the number one healthcare problem faced by military members and those who serve shouldn’t have to worry whether a doctor will see them or their sick family members because of these rate cuts. We address this concern in each of our visits with Members of Congress and will continue to do so until a new plan is in place. Members can support our efforts by contacting their elected officials in Washington and urge them to pass legislation that delays the March 1 cuts, or better yet, fixes the problem altogether.

BRAC

Last Thursday, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta indicated the President will also request another round of Base Realignment and Closures (BRAC) in order to reduce excess infrastructure. Air Force Chief of Staff Norton Schwartz recently said a case could be made for an Air Force BRAC since the service did not close any large installations in the last round of base closures. We assume future base closures would be tied to the type of aircraft DoD decides to divest which right now includes many A-10s, 27 C-5s, 65 C-130s, 28 C-27s, and the Global Hawk program.

What do you think? Should more Air Force Bases be closed? At the same time, let us know your thoughts on the prospect of TRICARE premiums rising. AFSA has a full slate of Hill visits scheduled over the next three weeks and your opinions will be helpful in our discussions with congressional members. You can forward your comments to us by clicking on the link at the end of this issue of On Call.

VETERANS NEWS

National Salute to Veteran Patients

The National Salute to Veteran Patients program encourages all Americans to visit and volunteer at VA medical centers and to send letters of thanks or valentines to those who have protected our nation. This year’s national salute is February 12-18. Last year, more than 328,000 valentines were received at VA medical centers, and 21,330 people visited nearly 70,000 veteran patients. You should also consider visiting patients and their families in the Fisher House on during this time. For more information regarding the National Salute to Veteran Patients and volunteer opportunities at a local VA medical center, visit the VA Voluntary Service webpage.

Mental Health Care

Getting help for a mental health problem should not be difficult or intimidating. VA offers a variety of tools and resources to help Veterans cope with their problems. The best place to start is the VA Mental Health web page. Take some time to visit the site.

3 Good Questions for Your Health

Every time you talk with a doctor, nurse, or pharmacist, use the “Ask Me 3 questions” to better understand your health.

1. What is my main problem?
2. What do I need to do?
3. Why is it important for me to do this?

When to Ask these Questions:

1. When you see your doctor, nurse or pharmacist
2. When you prepare for a medical test or procedure
3. When you get your medication.

HEALTHCARE

MHS Conference

Throughout the week, AFSA representatives have been attending the Annual Military Health System (MHS) Conference here in the National Capitol Region. We have been participating in workshops and attending plenary sessions which are designed to give attendees a better understanding of the MHS system. At the same time, we have had the opportunity to meet with many of the healthcare contractors who provide services to our members. These interactions afford AFSA the opportunity to air concerns with key programs like TRICARE for Life and the various dental programs, and receive information on changes of interest and benefit to our members.

Got Your Flu Shot?

Getting a flu vaccine is easy and inexpensive for TRICARE beneficiaries. You may be able to get your flu vaccine for free from any military medical clinic or hospital, or you may choose to get it at one of 50,000 participating TRICARE retail network pharmacies. Use Express Scripts’ pharmacy locator to find one near you or call 1 (877) 363-1303.

AFSA MEMBER BENEFITS

Share your AFSA pride!

AFSA has a wide range of very reasonably priced caps, belt buckles, commemorative coins, decals, medals, pins, plaques, awards and certificates available 24/7 on our website.

Scholarships for Air Force Enlisted Members Dependent Children and Air Force Sergeants Association Auxiliary

The Air Force Sergeants Association (AFSA) and the Airmen Memorial Foundation (AMF) joined together to conduct a scholarship program to financially assist the undergraduate studies of eligible, dependent children of the Total Air Force which includes Air Force Active Duty (AFAD), Air National Guard (ANG) , and Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC) enlisted members in active duty, retired, or veteran status. Applications are screened and verified for eligibility prior to submission to the respective selection committee(s). The AFSA and AFSA International Auxiliary programs have membership requirements, but there are no association membership requirements for the AMF or CMSAF programs.

Applications for the upcoming academic year will be available between January 1 and March 31. Completed application packages with all required documents can be sent to AFSA Headquarters between January 1 and March 3. Incomplete packages or packages received after March 31 are ineligible for consideration.

WORTH REPEATING

When recently asked of General Gary North, PACAF Commander, “what are your thoughts about chiefs and what are your overall expectations from chiefs”, his reply included “Chiefs are obstacle removers.”

We want to hear your thoughts and opinions. Complete the sentence below! What’s your top 10 list for AFSA? Go ahead. Don’t be bashful. Send it.

“I THINK AFSA SHOULD __________.”

• Bill Introduced: H.R.3861 To name the front circle drive on the north side of the Oscar G. Johnson Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Facility in Iron Mountain, Michigan, as the "Sergeant First Class James D. Priestap Drive".
  To name the front circle drive on the north side of the Oscar G. Johnson Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Facility in Iron Mountain, Michigan, as the “Sergeant First Class James D. Priestap Drive”.

• Bill Introduced: H.R.3863 Fair Military Leave Act
  To provide for the payment of a benefit to members eligible for participation in the Post-Deployment/Mobilization Respite Absence program for days of nonparticipation due to Government error.

• Bill Introduced: S.2060 Fair Military Leave Act
  A bill to provide for the payment of a benefit to members eligible for participation in the Post-Deployment/Mobilization Respite Absence program for days of nonparticipation due to Government error.

• Bill Introduced: H.R.3870 To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 6083 Highway 36 West in Rose Bud, Arkansas, as the "Nicky ‘Nick’ Daniel Bacon Post Office".
  To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 6083 Highway 36 West in Rose Bud, Arkansas, as the “Nicky ‘Nick’ Daniel Bacon Post Office”.

• Bill Introduced: H.R.3860 Help Veterans Return to Work Act
  To amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify the responsibilities of small businesses with respect to the employment and reemployment rights of veterans.

• Bill Introduced: S.2045 A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require judges of the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims to reside within fifty miles of the District of Columbia, and for other purposes.
  A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require judges of the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims to reside within fifty miles of the District of Columbia, and for other purposes.

• Bill Introduced: H.Res.529 Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should not consider releasing Taliban prisoners, Abdul Haq Wasiq, Mullah Norullah Noori, Mullah Mohammed Fazl, and Mullah Khairullah Khairkhwa, from prison in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, until Mullah Muhammed Omar has been turned over to United States custody.
  Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should not consider releasing Taliban prisoners, Abdul Haq Wasiq, Mullah Norullah Noori, Mullah Mohammed Fazl, and Mullah Khairullah Khairkhwa, from prison in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, until Mullah Muhammed Omar has been turned over to United States custody.

• Bill Introduced: H.Res.528 Honoring the service and sacrifice of the members of the United States Armed Forces in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn.
  Honoring the service and sacrifice of the members of the United States Armed Forces in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn.

• Bill Introduced: H.R.3828 Military Religious Freedom Protection Act
  To amend title 10, United States Code, to require that implementation of the repeal of the former Department of Defense policy concerning homosexual behavior in the Armed Forces not infringe upon the free exercise of religion by and the rights of conscience of members of the Armed Forces, including chaplains, and for other purposes.

According to documents released by DoD, the F-35 is going to be retained but procurement related to the program will be slowed. The Global Hawk program (drones used for surveillance and reconnaissance) will be terminated, along with 27 C-5s, 65 C-130s, and 28 C-27s. Six of the Air Force’s current tactical air squadrons and one training squadron will be eliminated and funding for missile defense reduced. Cuts in active duty Air Force personnel were not identified, but given the above, some reductions may eventually be required. The number of Air Force bases could be reduced as well; the President will ask Congress to authorize use of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process to identify additional savings that can be attained by closing bases or realigning units.

Annual pay increases for active duty service members will be unaffected in FY 2013 and FY 2014, but limited in FY 2015 and beyond. Military retired pay will not be immediately affected, but the President will ask Congress to establish a BRAC-like commission to conduct a comprehensive view of military retirement and recommend changes that meets the personnel needs of DoD in a cost-effective manner (In plain English; DoD would like to reduce military retired pay). Secretary Panetta said he and the President “Have made clear that the retirement benefits of those who currently serve will be protected by grandfathering their benefits.”

As AFSA predicted, several changes in TRICARE fees will be proposed by the President in his budget submission. They include:

• Further increasing and adding new enrollment fees for retirees under age 65 in the TRICARE program, using a tiered approach based on retired pay that requires senior–grade retirees to pay more and junior-grade retirees less; the resulting fees remain below comparable civilian equivalents
• Establishing a new enrollment fee for the TRICARE for Life program for retirees 65and older, again using a tiered approach; the resulting fees will be well below comparable civilian equivalents
• Implementing additional increases in pharmacy copays in a manner that increases incentives for use of generics and mail order

Many key support programs will be sustained, enhanced, or reorganized to better meet the needs of military personnel and their families. These include extra funding to enhance the Integrated Disability Evaluation system, reform the Transition Assistant Program, sustain family support and mental health programs, restore and modernize DoD schools and maintain the current number of stores in the military commissary system.

Speaking to reporters, Panetta said the budget represents the “tough budget choices” needed to reach $487 billion in cuts over 10 years. Panetta also said the plan entails risk, but that U.S. forces will remain capable of beating “any adversary, anytime, anywhere… Ultimately we will need the support and the partnership of Congress to implement this vision of the future military. Make no mistake, the savings we are proposing will impact all 50 states and many districts across America. This will be a test of whether reducing the deficit is about talk or action. My hope is that when members understand the sacrifice involved in reducing the defense budget by half a trillion dollars, it will convince Congress to avoid sequestration, a further round of cuts that would inflict severe damage to our national defense for generations.”

As previously reported, the President intends to present his full budget proposal to Congress on or about February 13 and additional details will be available at that time. The preliminary report provided yesterday can be found here. Many of the proposed changes are disturbing, but expected. Now it is time to act and AFSA will work with members of Congress to mitigate or eliminate the adverse effects these proposed changes will have on enlisted Air Force members and their families. But to be clear, we remain opposed to any effort that tries to shift the cost of earned healthcare onto the backs of retirees and their families. Using healthcare provided to retirees as a “cash cow” to generate savings for the nation is patently wrong, and inconsistent with many previous pledges to “not balance the budget on the backs of veterans.”

State of the Union

The President delivered his State of the Union speech on Tuesday evening. The majority of his comments centered on economic and policy issues he believes Congress should work on during the coming year. It was nice however, to hear all of the praise for our brave men and women at the beginning and end of his speech. “The generation serving in the military today has made the United States safer and more respected around the world,” the president said. “All American troops are out of Iraq, Osama bin Laden is dead and al-Qaeda is on the run. In Afghanistan, U.S., NATO and Afghan forces have reversed the Taliban’s momentum and some U.S. troops are coming home. These achievements are a testament to the courage, selflessness and teamwork of America‘s Armed Forces,” he said. “At a time when too many of our institutions have let us down, they exceed all expectations. They’re not consumed with personal ambition. They don’t obsess over their differences. They focus on the mission at hand. They work together.”

Elsewhere in his speech, the President stressed the importance of caring for veterans. “Our freedom endures because of the men and women in uniform who defend it. As they come home, we must serve them as well as they served us. That includes giving them the care and benefits they have earned.” He highlighted recently-approved tax credits to companies that hire vets and proposed a Veterans Job Corps to help our communities hire veterans as cops and firefighters.

The President concluded by again suggesting elected officials in Washingtoncould learn from the service of military personnel. “As long as we’re joined in common purpose, as long as we maintain our common resolve, our journey moves forward, our future is hopeful, and the state of our union will always be strong.”

FY 2013 Budget Proposal Delayed

The White House on Monday said it was delaying the release of President Obama’s FY 2013 budget proposal by one week. The new date is February 13. An Administration official said the later date was needed to finalize decisions and technical details of the document. Prior to Monday’s announcement, the Administration was expected to release next year’s budget proposal on time, by February 6 as required by law.

The President will ask less for DoD in FY 2013 and we will not have to wait until mid February to find out everything his plan entails. Defense Secretary Panetta is expected to release details about the President’s proposal later today. Our sources tell us the expected top line of the new defense budget will be around $513 billion, but that does not include war time funding. One agency that is likely to receive a boost in funding (albeit not as large as past years) is Veterans Affairs. Funding for some VA functions may decrease but overall, AFSA believes the department as a whole will receive a modest increase in funding. Details on the VA budget are not expected to be released until February 13.

Presidential Nominations for Top DoD Posts

Early this week, President Obama announced plans to nominate four people to fill key Defense Department posts. They include Undersecretary of the Air Force, Erin C. Conaton, who was nominated as undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness. The other three individuals are: Frank Kendall III who was nominated as undersecretary for defense for acquisition, technology and logistics; James N. Miller as undersecretary of defense for policy; and Jessica Lynn Wright as assistant secretary of defense for reserve affairs. All four nominations are subject to Senate confirmation; a hearing date has not been set.

Second Session of 112th Congress Now in Full Swing

The House and Senate are in session this week and will remain so for much of the next month. High on their “to do” list is passage of “tax extender” legislation which contains the ever-important “doc fix.” A temporary measure passed prior to Christmas expires at the end of February. Without new legislation, payments to doctors that treat Medicare and TRICARE patients will be cut 27.4 percent on March 1, 2012. AFSA will be watching this issue very closely and readers are encouraged to contact their elected representatives on this matter. Tell them to pass a long term “doc fix” and protect access to health care for military families and retirees.

VETERANS NEWS

Passing of First VA Secretary

Edward Joseph Derwinski, the first “Secretary of Veterans Affairs,” passed away on January 15. Secretary Derwinski was a World War II Army Veteran who served in the Pacific theater of operations and in post-warJapan. Following the war he served in a number of public service positions including 24 years as a member of the US House of Representatives and six more at the State Department.

When the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) was established on March 15, 1989, President H.W. Bush swore in Mr. Derwinski as its head on that date. He went on to serve in the position until September 1992. Secretary Derwinski is survived by his wife, Bonnie; a son, Michael; a stepdaughter, Maggie Hickey; a stepson, Kevin Hickey; a sister, Bernadette Ferrara; and seven grandchildren. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Derwinski family.

VA Emergency Care Payment Policy Extended

The Department of Veterans Affairs recently announced a change in regulations regarding payments for emergency care provided to eligible Veterans in non-VA facilities. In short, VA’s authority to pay for emergency care provided to eligible Veterans at non-VA facilities–until the Veterans can be safely transferred to a VA medical facility–has been extended. More than 100,000 Veterans are estimated to be affected by the new rule at a cost of about $44 million annually.

VA operates 121 emergency departments across the countries, which provide resuscitative therapy and stabilization in life-threatening situations. They operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. VA also has 46 urgent care units, which provide care for patients without scheduled appointments who need immediate medical or psychiatric attention. Additional information about emergency care in non-VA facilities is available and can be found by clicking here.

VA History

The VA benefits system traces its roots back to 1636, when the Pilgrims of Plymouth Colony were at war with the Pequot Indians. The Pilgrims passed a law stating disabled soldiers would be supported by the colony. Learn more about the history of the Department of Veterans Affairs by visiting their history page.

National Directory

As a reminder, use VA’s National Directory to locate your local medical centers, Vet centers, PTSD programs, national cemeteries, and more.

HEALTHCARE

January is Thyroid Awareness Month

Have you thought about your thyroid gland? Most people are unaware of their thyroid unless they’ve suffered from symptoms related to thyroid disease. TRICARE covers clinical preventive services including checks for thyroid cancer for adults with a history of upper body radiation.

Hypothyroidism is a common condition where there body lacks sufficient levels of thyroid hormone. Symptoms include gaining weight, feeling tired and having difficulty with cold temperatures. Conversely, hyperthyroidism results when the thyroid is too active, producing more thyroid hormone than the body needs. This condition can cause weight loss, rapid heartbeat and sensitivity to heat.

Treatment is available for both conditions depending on the cause, and the goal is to bring thyroid hormone back to normal which typically eliminates the patient’s symptoms. Those who have any of these symptoms or a family history of thyroid disease should speak with their primary care provider to discuss their thyroid health.

Does TRICARE for Life cover the Silver Sneakers program?

No. General exercise programs, even if recommended by a physician and regardless of whether or not the exercise programs are given by an authorized provider are not covered by TRICARE. In addition, exercise equipment, spas, whirlpools, hot tubs, swimming pools, health club memberships or other such charges or items are also not covered by TRICARE.

Routine Eye Exams & TRICARE Prime

TRICARE Prime provides routine eye exam coverage as follows:

• Well-child care coverage (infants and children up to age 6): Infants receive one eye and vision screening is covered at birth and at 6 months. Children (up to age 6) of active duty members are covered for one routine eye exam per year. All others are covered for one routine eye exam every two years.
• Adults and children (over age 6): Active duty family members are covered for one eye exam per year. Retired service members and their families are covered for one eye exam every two years.
• Diabetic patients (any age): Eye exams aren’t limited. One eye exam per year is recommended.

Ophthalmological services, which may include an eye exam and other specialized services, are covered in connection with the medical or surgical treatment of a covered illness or injury. Please contact your regional contractor for more information.

AFSA MEMBER BENEFITS

Insurance: Property & Casualty

Protect what’s important to you with affordable insurance from USAA. USAA offers top-rated coverage at low rates. Combine that with award-winning service — in fact, USAA was ranked one of Business Week’s top two “Customer Service Champs” the last four years in a row. To make it easy for you, you can do it all online — quote, buy, print ID cards, and much more. Call USAA at (800) 531-8722 or go online here.

Air Force Times: AFSA Subscription Discount

Don’t miss this special subscription offer; order the Air Force Times at $39.95 for the year. That’s a savings of 76 percent off the cover price. On top of that, the Air Force Times will send $5 to AFSA on your behalf — and send to you – TWO FREE GIFTS! Order online here or call (800) 368-5718. [Please advise the AF Times that you are an AFSA member.]

WORTH REPEATING

“May the sun in his course visit no land more free, more happy, more lovely, than his own country!”

Daniel Webster

We want to hear your thoughts and opinions. Complete the sentence below! What’s your top 10 list for AFSA? Go ahead. Don’t be bashful. Send it.

“I THINK AFSA SHOULD __________.”

• Bill Introduced: H.R.3785 To repeal section 1021 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012.
  To repeal section 1021 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012.

• Date: 25 Jan 2012
• Location: Crossroads (Old E-Club)
• Time: 1100

Second Session of the 112th Congress Underway

The full House met briefly this week before adjourning on Wednesday. They will be back, along with their Senate counterparts early next week. Several key issues will take center stage during the first few weeks of the second session of the 112th Congress return. They include raising the nation’s debt ceiling; another “tax-extenders” package containing the tax holiday, unemployment insurance, and a “Doc Fix” addressing Medicare & TRICARE’s reimbursement rate for doctors; and minimizing or eliminating the deep cuts in defense spending directed by the last year’s budget accord.

Last week, President Obama asked Congress to raise the debt ceiling by $1.2 trillion. This would boost the debt ceiling to $16.4 trillion and is believed to be enough to allow the government to keep borrowing through 2012. The House on Wednesday passed a resolution expressing their disapproval with the President’s plan for another hike in the debt ceiling. The Democratic-led Senate is likely to be more supportive of another increase, setting the stage for another funding-related battle between the two chambers. Congress last agreed to raise the debt limit by $500 billion in September of last year.

The tax extension legislation consumed considerable time during the final days of the first session of the 112th Congress. Two days before Christmas, Congress agreed to a two-month deal that expires at the end of February. Lawmakers are now working on a new package to cover the remainder of the year. Confidence is high they can complete this by the February 29 deadline. As reported, our interest here lies with rates paid to doctors who treat Medicare and TRICARE patients. Without additional congressional action, the previously delayed 27 percent cut in payments would occur on March 1. That could translate into access problems for beneficiaries if doctors limit the number of patients they see who use these two programs.

Several members of Congress hope to forestall the deep cuts in defense spending mandated by the Budget Control Act of 2011 (Public Law 112-25). When the congressional “Super Committee” failed its charge of finding $1.2 trillion in government savings last November, they set in motion an automatic trigger mechanism known as sequestration. Sequestration is expected to slash as much as $600 billion from defense spending over the next decade and that, coupled with nearly $490 billion in planned reductions has many lawmakers deeply concerned. AFSA expects to see, and intends to support legislation originating in both chambers that delay or reduces the cuts directed by the August budget accord.

State of the Union

President Obama will deliver the annual State of the Union Address (his fourth) on January 24 at 9:00 pm, Eastern Time. This annual address is an important communication between the President and Congress in which the chief executive reports on the current conditions of the United States, and provides policy proposals for the upcoming legislative year. Formerly known as the “Annual Message,” the formal basis for the State of the Union address is the U.S. Constitution which says, The President “Shall from time to time give to the Congress Information of the State of the Union, and recommend to their Consideration such Measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient…” The practice of delivering the annual message in January is not quite as old. It began in 1934.

The Budget Process

A week or so after the President gives his State of the Union address; he will submit his FY 2013 budget proposal to Congress. The annual budget process begins with his submission which by law must occur on or before the first Monday in February (31 U.S.C. 1105(a)). The next key deadline in the process is April 15. That’s the day House and Senate lawmakers are supposed to complete action on a concurrent budget resolution.

VETERANS NEWS

January is Glaucoma Awareness Month

Over 1.5 million Veterans have a vision threatening eye disease—including 285,000 with Glaucoma. Learn more about the disease and what resources VA offers here.

National Resource Directory

The National Resource Directory provides online support and access to over 10,000 services and resources

For wounded warriors, service members, veterans, their families, caregivers and those who support them. Members are encouraged to visit the site so they are aware of what is available. Be sure to check your particular state for any additional benefits that may be offered.

New Law Change Increases Insurance Coverage for Veterans

According to a recent VA press release, some Veterans covered under the Veterans Group Life Insurance program (VGLI) now have the opportunity to increase their coverage to the current maximum coverage under the Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) program.

Thanks to the Veterans’ Benefits Act of 2010 which was enacted on October 13, 2010, Veterans can increase their coverage by $25,000 at each five-year anniversary date of their policy to the current legislated maximum SGLI coverage, presently, $400,000.

Before enactment of this law, Veterans could not have more VGLI than the amount of SGLI they had at the time of separation from service. For example, those who got out of the service prior to September 1, 2005, when the maximum SGLI coverage was $250,000, were limited to $250,000 in VGLI coverage. Now on their first five-year anniversary, these Veterans can elect to increase their coverage to $275,000. On their next five-year anniversary, they can increase the coverage to $300,000, and so forth.

The additional coverage can be issued regardless of the Veteran’s health. To be eligible to purchase this additional coverage, the Veteran must:

• Have active VGLI coverage,
• Have less than the current legislated maximum coverage of $400,000,
• Request the additional coverage during the 120-day period prior to each five-year anniversary date, and
• Be less than 60 years of age on the five-year anniversary date of his or her coverage.

Eligible Veterans are notified of this opportunity a week before the start of the 120-day period prior to their anniversary date, and twice more before the actual anniversary date. For more information about VA’s Insurance Program or other VA benefits, click here, or call 1-800-827-1000.

HEALTHCARE

Preparing for a Deployment

Getting ready to deploy? Here is a quick checklist you can use to get your family TRICARE-ready during your extended absence:

Paperwork: Make sure your spouse can take care of things while you’re gone

• Leave a copy of your orders for your spouse
• Prepare a Power of Attorney so that your spouse can make changes or update information in your absence
• If you want your spouse to have access to your medical records and personal health information while you are away, you must fill out paperwork giving them permission.
• Make any necessary financial arrangements (allotments, automatic bill paying, etc.)

Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS): DEERS registration is key in determining TRICARE eligibility

• Keep family member information updated in DEERS at all times
• Show your spouse how to make changes in DEERS in case he or she needs to while you’re gone
• Get identification (ID) cards updated if they are about to expire

TRICARE: Make sure your spouse knows the TRICARE basics and make a list of important phone numbers

• Primary care manager or provider to call for appointments
• Regional contractor
• Emergency room
• Beneficiary counseling and assistance coordinator (BCAC)

Review your family’s TRICARE plan information so they know how to access care in your absence. Remember to discuss how and where prescriptions can be filled

AFSA MEMBER BENEFITS

Insurance: Property & Casualty

Protect what’s important to you with affordable insurance from USAA. USAA offers top-rated coverage at low rates. Combine that with award-winning service — in fact, USAA was ranked one of Business Week’s top two “Customer Service Champs” the last four years in a row. To make it easy for you, you can do it all online — quote, buy, print ID cards, and much more. Call USAA at (800) 531-8722 or go online here.

Discount Prescription Card

AFSA members & dependents have a Prescription Discount Benefit. Cut your prescription costs up to twenty percent on brand-name drugs and save as much as fifty percent on generic medicines with the RxAmerica program. To print your prescription card click here (http://www.afsainsurance.com), select “wellness,” then choose “RX AmericaPrescription Plan.”

WORTH REPEATING

“Offense is the Essence of Air Power”

~ General H. H. “Hap” Arnold ~

We want to hear your thoughts and opinions. Complete the sentence below! What’s your top 10 list for AFSA? Go ahead. Don’t be bashful. Send it.

“I THINK AFSA SHOULD __________.”

New National Defense Strategy Announced

Last Thursday the President laid out plans for a leanerU.S.military during a Pentagon press conference. The Administration’s new strategy moves away from the two-war standard that has been in place since the end of the Cold War, greatly reduces military personnel levels and reorients the military toward the Asia-pacific Theater of operations.

The underlying goal of the new strategy is to reduce overall defense expenditures. The eight page report, entitled, Sustaining U.S. Global Leadership: Priorities for the 21st Century is driven by the need to cut nearly $490 billion from defense spending through 2021, including about $261 billion through 2017. It does not provide specifics on exactly how DoD intends to carry out these cuts; that part of the plan should become clearer when the President releases his budget proposal to Congress in early February.

Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, General Martin Dempsey accompanied the President when he made his announcement. According to Secretary Panetta, four overarching principles guided their deliberations in preparing the report: To maintain the world’s finest military, one that supports and sustains the unique global leadership role of the United States; to avoid hollowing out the force– a smaller, ready, and well-equipped military is preferable to a larger, ill-prepared force that has been arbitrarily cut across-the- board; that savings must be achieved in a balanced manner with everything on the table, including politically sensitive areas that will likely provoke opposition from parts of Congress, industry, and advocacy groups; and to preserve the quality of the All-Volunteer Force and not break faith with our men and women in uniform or their families. In a prepared statement, Secretary Panetta said “There is no question that we have to make some tradeoffs, and that we will be taking on some level of additional but acceptable risk in the budget plan we release next month. These were not easy choices.”

Later in his statement, Panetta addressed the men and women in uniform and the civilian employees who support them. You have done everything the country has asked you to do, and more. “You have put your lives on the line, and fought to make our country safer and stronger. I believe this strategic guidance honors your sacrifices and strengthens the country by building a force equipped for the future. I have no higher responsibility than fighting to protect you and your families, just as you have fought and bled to protect our country.”

One thing is clear however, with the release of Thursday’s report: major changes in DoD are coming. Comments within like “reducing the cost of doing business” and “reducing manpower costs” can safely be translated to mean changes in military compensation and higher healthcare costs will be part of future DoD budget proposals.

All totaled, the military faces $1 trillion in cuts over the next decade to satisfy congressional mandates if the sequestration feature of the budget accord passed in August 2011 is allowed to go forward. AFSA shares the concerns of many— that deep reductions in defense spending greatly reduce our military capability and could result in a hollow force. As stated before, we have serious reservations with any proposal that begins with the premise of saving money, rather than a careful assessment of our national security needs and then properly applies the funding to meet that need. Overall the Nation would be better served if the Administration focused its efforts on eliminating redundant programs or the hundreds of billions of dollars of fraud, waste and abuse that occurs in federal programs, instead of trying to balance the budget on the backs of those who have sacrificed so much.

Again, we have to wait until the FY 2013 budget request is released before we will know what programs may be at risk. By law (Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974), the President is required to present a budget proposal for the coming Fiscal Year to Congress by the first Monday in February. We are told his FY 2013 proposal will be submitted by February 6 as the law requires. AFSA will make a careful assessment of his proposal at that time and alert members to any threats it may contain affecting Air Force enlisted members or their families.

Congress

Congress remains in a period of legislative inactivity. For the past few weeks the House and Senate have been meeting in pro forma sessions where no legislative business is conducted. The House session on Tuesday lasted two minutes and the Senate’s, a mere 28 seconds.

New Law Eases Airport Screening for Troops, Families

Last week President Barack Obama signed H.R. 1801, The Risk-based Security Screening for Members of the Armed Forces Act which streamlines airport screening procedures for service members and their families traveling on official orders.

The Act gives the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) six months to develop and implement a plan to expedite screening services for service members on orders and in uniform and, “to the extent possible, any accompanying family member.” It calls for the agency to establish standard guidelines for the screening of military uniform items, such as combat boots. According to a DoD press release, TSA officials said they’re in the process of reviewing options for these new procedures in consultation with the Defense Department. Programs such as this one strengthen security, officials said, explaining that separating out low-risk people, such as members of the armed forces, allows the agency to focus its resources on travelers who present a higher risk.

VETERANS NEWS

With the tax filing season upon us, VA is warning veterans of a number of scams that impersonate the IRS. Some of them appear with great frequency, particularly during and right after filing season. They are:

• Refund Scam — This is the most frequent IRS-impersonation scam seen by the IRS. In this phishing scam, a bogus e-mail claiming to come from the IRS tells the consumer that he or she is eligible to receive a tax refund for a specified amount. It may use the phrase “last annual calculations of your fiscal activity.” To claim the tax refund, the consumer must open an attachment or click on a link contained in the e-mail to access and complete a claim form. The form requires the entry of personal and financial information. Several variations on the refund scam have claimed to come from the Exempt Organizations area of the IRS or the name and signature of a genuine or made-up IRS executive. In reality, taxpayers do not complete a special form to obtain their federal tax refund — refunds are triggered by the tax return they submitted to the IRS.
• Lottery winnings or cash consignment — These advance fee scam e-mails claim to come from the Treasury Department to notify recipients that they’ll receive millions of dollars in recovered funds or lottery winnings or cash consignment if they provide certain personal information, including phone numbers, via return e-mail. The e-mail may be just the first step in a multi-step scheme, in which the victim is later contacted by telephone or further e-mail and instructed to deposit taxes on the funds or winnings before they can receive any of it. Alternatively, they may be sent a phony check of the funds or winnings and told to deposit it but pay 10 percent in taxes or fees. Thinking that the check must have cleared the bank and is genuine, some people comply. However, the scammers, not the Treasury Department, will get the taxes or fees. In reality, the Treasury Department does not become involved in notification of inheritances or lottery or other winnings.
• Beneficial Owner Form — This fax-based phishing scam, which generally targets foreign nationals, recurs periodically. It’s based on a genuine IRS form, the W-8BEN, Certificate of Foreign Status of Beneficial Owner for United States Tax Withholding. The scammer, though, invents his or her own number and name for the form. The scammer modifies the form to request passport numbers, information that is often used for account security purposes (such as mother’s maiden name) and similar detailed personal and financial information, and states that the recipient may have to pay additional tax if he or she fails to immediately fax back the completed form. In reality, the real W-8BEN is completed by banks, not individuals.

This Year, Stick with Your Resolutions

VA is available to help you keep your resolutions, maintain your motivation and avoid common pitfalls. Make this the year you make good on your New Year’s resolutions and get on the path to good health in 2012. Read the full story… (http://www.va.gov/health/NewsFeatures/20111229a.asp)

Homelessness among Veterans Declining

VA and Housing and Urban Development recently released a national report that shows Veteran homelessness fell nearly 12 percent between January 2010 and January 2011. The 12-percent decline keeps VA on track to meet the goal of ending Veteran homelessness in 2015. “This new report is good news for the tens of thousands of Veterans we have helped find a home. Our progress in the fight against homelessness has been significant, but our work is not complete until no Veteran has to sleep on the street,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “We have been successful in achieving this milestone due to strong leadership from the President and hard work by countless community organizations and our federal, state, and local partners who are committed to helping Veterans and their families get back on their feet.” According to the 2011 supplement to the Annual Homeless Assessment Report (AHAR) released, 67,495 Veterans were homeless in the United States on a single night in January 2011 — a significant reduction from last year’s single night count of 76,329. For more information on Veterans homeless issues, click here.

HEALTHCARE

Prior Authorizations

Do you know what medical services require prior authorization under TRICARE? Click here to find out and remember you can call your regional contractor to find out if an authorization has been approved.

Counseling for Military Families

Military OneSource offers military families several counseling options to support emotional well-being. See what’s available here

AFSA MEMBER BENEFITS

Insurance: Property & Casualty

Protect what’s important to you with affordable insurance from USAA. USAA offers top-rated coverage at low rates. Combine that with award-winning service — in fact, USAA was ranked one of Business Week’s top two “Customer Service Champs” the last four years in a row. To make it easy for you, you can do it all online — quote, buy, print ID cards, and much more. Call USAA at (800) 531-8722 or go online here.

Discount Prescription Card

AFSA members & dependents have a Prescription Discount Benefit. Cut your prescription costs up to twenty percent on brand-name drugs and save as much as fifty percent on generic medicines with the RxAmerica program. To print your prescription card click here, select “wellness”, then choose “RX AmericaPrescription Plan”.

THINKING AFSA

Last Call! AFSA Seeks Input for 2012-2013 Legislative Platform

This is the last call for proposals for possible inclusion in AFSA’s 2012-2013 Legislative Platform. Recommendations should be written in point paper format and submitted through the local chapter to the Division President for coordination. Division Presidents will compile issues received from their chapters and forward them to the Directorate of Military and Government Relations (M&G) for further evaluation.

Proposals must be received by Military and Government Relations and (cc:)Trustee Nelson (Legislative Committee Chairman) NLT January 15, 2012, to ensure there is sufficient time to research each issue. Items received by this time will be considered by the AFSA Legislative Committee in the spring of 2012 when it meets to prepare a new draft platform for the AFSA International Executive Committee.

WORTH REPEATING

“Quality is not an act. It’s a habit.”

– Aristotle

We want to hear your thoughts and opinions. Complete the sentence below! What’s your top 10 list for AFSA? Go ahead. Don’t be bashful. Send it.

“I THINK AFSA SHOULD __________.”

• Bill Signed by President: H.R.1892 Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012
  To authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2012 for intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the United States Government, the Community Management Account, and the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System, and for other purposes.

  January 02, 2012: Signed by President.

• Bill Enacted: H.R.1892 Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012
  To authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2012 for intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the United States Government, the Community Management Account, and the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System, and for other purposes.

  January 02, 2012: Became Public Law No: 112-87.

Short-term “Doc Fix”

Less than 48 hours before Christmas, lawmakers agreed to a two-month plan that prevented higher tax rates, delayed a 27 percent cut in payments to doctors who treat Medicare and TRICARE patients (“Doc Fix”), and extended unemployment insurance programs. The agreement lasts through February and efforts to come up with a longer-term agreement will likely capture much of Congress’ attention when it returns later this month. Although both chambers have appointed members to a conference committee charged with hammering out a long-term deal, there is no reason to believe these negotiations will be any easier than those seen in recent months, primarily because neither party can agree on how to pay for the measure. We will keep an eye on their progress and provide updates as information becomes available.

FY 2012 NDAA Now Law

President Obama has signed into law, H.R. 1540, the Fiscal Year 2012 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). As we have reported, the bill contains several important provisions, among them, authorization for a 1.6 percent military pay raise and extension of many special pays and bonuses. The President attached to the bill a not-oft-used signing statement that expresses his concerns with certain provisions contained within the measure. “The fact that I support this bill as a whole does not mean I agree with everything in it,” the President said. “In particular, I have signed this bill despite having serious reservations with certain provisions that regulate the detention, interrogation, and prosecution of suspected terrorists… Ultimately, I decided to sign this bill not only because of the critically important services it provides for our forces and their families and the national security programs it authorizes, but also because the Congress revised provisions that otherwise would have jeopardized the safety, security, and liberty of the American people.” As regular readers of On Call know, the terrorist custody issue proved to be extremely controversial in 2011, impeding the NDAA’s passage for months. Lawmakers reworded and “tweaked” that language several times in order to gain the approval of the President and many lawmakers.

AFSA Ready for 2012

Over the past few weeks AFSA has been meeting with congressional members and Hill staffers as we formulate legislative strategies for the second session of the 112th Congress. Game plans are being developed for key legislative goals like protecting enlisted pay and compensation programs (including TRICARE), making further progress on concurrent receipt, repealing the SBP/DIC offset, and advancing a number of Guard and Reserve retirement and compensation issues. DoD officials are finalizing their budget plans for FY 2013. Their proposal will be part of the President’s budget submission expected to be given to Congress in early February. Early indicators suggest they may be asking Congress to support higher TRICARE fees and changes with military pay and compensation programs. Because such moves would most directly affect enlisted Airmen, AFSA will vigorously oppose either effort. We will report details as soon as DoD budget plans are formally published.

VETERANS NEWS

Rules Liberalized for Veterans with Undiagnosed Illnesses

Veterans of the Gulf War with undiagnosed illnesses have an additional five years to qualify for VA disability benefits. The eligibility window has been extended to December 31, 2016. See this VA announcement for more information.

One Stop Shop for GI Bill Resources

VA’s GI Bill Page can help you apply for education benefits; answer frequently asked questions and even help you decide on the best school that suits your needs. The Post-9/11 GI Bill Facebook Page can help you keep up to date with that important education benefit as well.

VA Announces Launch of Facebook Pages for all 152 Medical Centers

In late December the Department of Veterans Affairs announced it has established Facebook pages for all of its 152 medical centers. The process that began with a single Veterans Health Administration Facebook page in 2008 has now produced over 150 Facebook pages, 64 Twitter feeds, a YouTube channel, a Flickr page, and the VAntage Point blog. Additionally, in June 2011, VA produced a Department-wide social media policy that provides guidelines for communicating with Veterans online. The overarching strategy is designed to help break down long-perceived barriers between the Department and its stakeholders. VA currently has over 345,000 combined Facebook subscribers (or, “fans”). The Department’s main Facebook page has over 154,000 fans and its medical centers have a combined subscribership of over 69,000. The Department plans to continue expanding its Facebook presence while also focusing on bringing Twitter to every VA medical center as well. A directory of All VA Social Media Sites can be found here and a separate VA Facebook Page Directory, here

HEALTHCARE

Walgreens No Longer a TRICARE Pharmacy Network Provider

The current contract between Express Scripts, Inc. and the Walgreens pharmacy chain expired on December 31, 2011. As a result, Walgreens is NO LONGER a TRICARE Pharmacy Network Provider. The TRICARE Management Activity (TMA) assures AFSA that most beneficiaries will have access to another network pharmacy very close to home as the contract with Express Scripts requires high access standards. On Tuesday, TMA published a press release regarding the change in Walgreens’ status. Due to the high level of interest on this issue and the potential impact on our members, it appears in its entirety below.

TRICARE Beneficiaries Reassured of Robust Pharmacy Service

TRICARE Management Activity – The expiration of the retail pharmacy contract between Express Scripts, Inc. (ESI) and the Walgreens pharmacy chain means Walgreens is no longer a TRICARE pharmacy network provider as of January 1, 2012.

“The majority of beneficiaries have access to another network pharmacy very close to home as our pharmacy contract requires ESI to maintain high access standards,” said Rear Adm. Thomas McGinnis, chief of the TRICARE Pharmaceutical Operations Directorate. “There are still 56,000 network pharmacies nationwide – easily meeting or exceeding our access requirements.”

In addition to 56,000 network pharmacies, TRICARE beneficiaries have other pharmacy options including military pharmacies at no cost and convenient TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery. Generic medications are available at no cost through Home Delivery.

Beneficiaries who use non-network pharmacies, including Walgreens, pay full prescription costs upfront and submit their own claims for reimbursement. Reimbursement will occur only after the non-network deductible is met. Out-of-network costs include a 50 percent point-of-service cost share for TRICARE Prime, after deductibles are met. All other non-active duty TRICARE beneficiaries pay the greater of a $12 copay or 20 percent of the total cost for formulary medications and the greater of $25 or 20 percent of the total cost for non-formulary medications, after deductibles are met. For more on pharmacy costs, visit this TRICARE Prescription Page (www.tricare.mil/pharmacycosts).

TRICARE beneficiaries changing from Walgreens pharmacy can simply take their current prescription bottle to their new network pharmacy to have the prescription transferred. To find a nearby network pharmacy, use the “find a pharmacy” feature on the Express Scripts Website (www.express-scripts.com/tricare). Beneficiaries who want help finding a pharmacy, changing their medications to Home Delivery or who have other questions can contact Express Scripts at 1-877-885-6313.

The issues between ESI and Walgreens are not specific to TRICARE. Other employer-sponsored and some Medicare Part D pharmacy plans are also affected. Beneficiaries with questions and concerns about this issue can visit this page (www.tricare.mil/walgreens) for more information.

“We are committed to ensuring all our pharmacy beneficiaries are aware of the many options that TRICARE makes available to them,” said Brig. Gen. Bryan Gamble, TRICARE Deputy Director. “By now, all of our beneficiaries who use Walgreens to fill prescriptions should have been contacted to advise them of their pharmacy options and to take action to ensure their pharmacy benefit remains uninterrupted. The health of our Service members, retirees and their families remains my number one priority.”

In addition to the letters already mailed to each beneficiary who uses Walgreens, ESI has contacted many beneficiaries by telephone and followed up with reminder letters over the last few months of 2011. Beneficiaries taking medications to treat hemophilia, multiple sclerosis, and some rheumatoid arthritis and cancer drugs have also been contacted. TRICARE pharmacy information and updates can be found at www.tricare.mil/pharmacy.

AFSA MEMBER BENEFITS

INSURANCE: PROPERTY & CASUALTY

Protect what’s important to you with affordable insurance from USAA. USAA offers top-rated coverage at low rates. Combine that with award-winning service — in fact, USAA was ranked one of Business Week’s top two “Customer Service Champs” the last four years in a row. To make it easy for you, you can do it all online — quote, buy, print ID cards, and much more. Call USAA at (800) 531-8722 or go online here.

Scholarships for Air Force Enlisted Members Dependent Children and Air Force Sergeants Association Auxiliary

The Air Force Sergeants Association (AFSA) and the Airmen Memorial Foundation (AMF) joined together to conduct a scholarship program to financially assist the undergraduate studies of eligible, dependent children of the Total Air Force which includes Air Force Active Duty (AFAD), Air National Guard (ANG) , and Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC) enlisted members in active duty, retired, or veteran status. Applications are screened and verified for eligibility prior to submission to the respective selection committee(s). The AFSA and AFSA International Auxiliary programs have membership requirements, but there are no association membership requirements for the AMF or CMSAF programs.

Applications for the upcoming academic year will be available between January 1 and March 31. Completed application packages with all required documents can be sent to AFSA Headquarters between January 1 and March 3. Incomplete packages or packages received after March 31 are ineligible for consideration.

THINKING AFSA

AFSA Seeks Input for 2012-2013 Legislative Platform

AFSA continues to seek your proposals for possible inclusion in AFSA’s 2012-2013 Legislative Platform. Recommendations should be written in point paper format and submitted through the local chapter to the Division President for coordination. Division Presidents will compile issues received from their chapters and forward them to the Directorate of Military and Government Relations (M&G) for further evaluation.

Proposals must be received by Military and Government Relations and (cc:)Trustee Nelson (Legislative Committee Chairman) NLT January 15, 2012, to ensure there is sufficient time to research each issue. Items received by this time will be considered by the AFSA Legislative Committee in the spring of 2012 when it meets to prepare a new draft platform for the AFSA International Executive Committee.

WORTH REPEATING

“Never believe that a few caring people can’t change the world. For, indeed, that’s all who ever have.”

- Margaret Mead -

We want to hear your thoughts and opinions. Complete the sentence below! What’s your top 10 list for AFSA? Go ahead. Don’t be bashful. Send it.

“I THINK AFSA SHOULD __________.”