Other LanguagesAttorney General Ferguson joins national coalition in sharing resources for veterans, military and families
SEATTLE—Attorney General Bob Ferguson today joined fellow attorneys general, the Federal Trade Commission and other partners across America in recognizing the first annual Military Consumer Protection Day. This broad coalition’s efforts include sharing tips and information about managing money, dealing with credit and debt, building savings, protecting personal information, recognizing identity theft and avoiding fraud.
“As the son of a proud Navy veteran, I am honored and humbled to serve Washington’s military service members, veterans and their families,” Ferguson said. “These proud Americans serve all of us every day. It is my privilege to bring the resources of the Attorney General’s Office to bear to assist them when needed.”
Ferguson previously unveiled a new Web site, featuring legal resources for veterans, military and their families in the areas of business and commerce, housing, employment and the law. At both the federal and state level, there are many legal rights, protections, and resources available to veterans and military personnel because of their service.
“These men and women have served our country and fought for our rights. It is important they know the Attorney General’s Office is fighting for their rights as well,” Ferguson said.
“The AG’s resources complement the services and benefits we spotlight on the WDVA Web site to provide a comprehensive approach to honoring and serving veterans and the military in Washington,” said WDVA Director Alfie Alvarado-Ramos.
With approximately 640,000 veteran residents, Washington State has the 12th largest veteran population in the U.S. Washington is also home to a number of major military installations, such as Joint Base Lewis–McChord, Fairchild Air Force Base, Naval Base Kitsap, and Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. Between active duty personnel and members of the National Guard and Reserve, there are about 62,000 service members in Washington. Taken together, veterans and military personnel account for more than 10 percent of Washington’s total population.
Serving the state’s veterans, military service members and their families is a top priority for the Attorney General. Since taking office, he has:
• Appointed a veterans’ outreach specialist;
• Cracked down on schemes targeting veterans with the promise of untapped benefits;
• Signed the Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve; and
• Convened the Military and Veterans Assistance Team—an internal team of attorneys and legal staff dedicated to improving services for veterans, military and their families in Washington.
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The Office of the Attorney General is the chief legal office for the state of Washington with attorneys and staff in 27 divisions across the state providing legal services to roughly 200 state agencies, boards and commissions. Attorney General Bob Ferguson is working hard to protect consumers and seniors against fraud, keep our communities safe, protect our environment and stand up for our veterans. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.
Contacts:
Janelle Guthrie, Director of Communications, (360) 586-0725
Alison Dempsey-Hall, Dep. Communications Director, (206) 641-1335