ST. PAUL, Minn. — On Thursday, the Senate State and Local Government and Veterans Committee passed an omnibus Veterans budget that increases funding levels by 51 percent over the base budget. Prior to the committee hearing, Chair Senator Erin Murphy (DFL-St. Paul) and Vice Chair and chief author Senator Nicole Mitchell (DFL-Woodbury) met with veterans, leaders, and advocates as part of Veterans Day on the Hill.
“The $128 million of new funding for veterans and military affairs in this budget is an unprecedented investment in supporting our men and women in the military,” said Senator Mitchell. “We are prioritizing the issues that will help our veterans who need it the most. That means taking steps to end veterans homelessness, increase access to mental health services, and care for seniors living in veterans homes. I am proud to carry on a tradition of military service in my family for generations. This bill is a reflection of my commitment, and the commitment of this committee and caucus, to insure that the needs of our service members are met.”
“The voices of our cherished veterans and their families have been at the forefront of our work on this bill since the start of this session,” said Senator Murphy. “I want to thank them for their contributions to that discussion. We honor their service to this country, defending our freedoms. It is our job in the Capitol to fight for their priorities and see that they receive the support and care they have earned.”
The Veterans budget passed out of committee by unanimous vote.
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