(KNSI) — The Minnesota House unanimously passed a bill that would allow the state Department of Veterans Affairs to more easily partner with outside organizations to address food insecurity, homelessness and suicide prevention for veterans.
The bill gives the Commissioner of Veterans Affairs the authority to direct resources toward veteran needs. The legislation also requires the commissioner to submit a yearly report to the governor and specific legislative committees. This report must detail how resources were used and highlight the major challenges veterans faced.
Representative Kari Rehrauer, who authored the bill, issued a statement after it passed saying, “Minnesotans are facing a severe affordability crisis, and many veterans are being hit especially hard. No one who served our country should struggle to put food on the table or a roof over their head. By allowing the MDVA to collaborate with local partners, more of Minnesota’s veterans will be able to access services they need and deserve.”
The bill awaits action in the Senate and has bipartisan support.
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