On Thursday, the Minnesota Senate passed a two-year state government budget that funds the state’s veterans and military affairs services and honors Minnesota’s ongoing commitment to the state’s veterans.

“Over the past two years I have worked hand in hand with Minnesota veterans to secure critical funding for the Bemidji Veterans Home,” said Senator Justin Eichorn (R-Grand Rapids). “During that time, I have built many strong relations and seen the strength and leadership that our state’s veterans exemplify. Working with veterans has allowed me to have many great conversations and learn the needs of the community over that span. With that in mind, I believe that this bill honors Minnesota’s ongoing commitment to our veterans and helps us preserve their legacy for generations to come.”

In addition to funding the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Military Affairs, the budget also includes an investment in the C.O.R.E program, which supports military members, veterans, and their families by providing counseling, case management, outreach, referral, and education services. The budget also includes funding for the Department of Military Affairs “Support Our Troops” program, Sustain Reintegration Programs, and new enlistment incentives.

In addition, the bill establishes ‘POW and MIA Recognition Day’ and ‘American Allies Day’, acknowledging the sacrifice made by many Minnesota veterans and those who fought alongside them. The bill also establishes a ‘Veterans Suicide Awareness Day’ to help bring light to a crisis that many veterans face.

Finally, housing Minnesota’s veterans remains a priority of the Senate. Last session, Senate Republicans authorized $32 million for the construction of three new veterans homes – one in Preston, one in Montevideo, and one in Bemidji. The homes will support about 200 beds for Minnesota veterans. This session, Senate Republicans continue to advocate for those homes, working with federal officials to help secure final approval.
 

The veterans budget funds the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs as well as the Minnesota Department of Military Affairs. In total, veterans receive $208.896 million out of the state’s general fund over the next two years.