Dear Neighbors,
This afternoon, the House approved the negotiated, bipartisan Veterans’ bill. When I say bipartisan, I mean it. We voted overwhelmingly in both the Senate and the House to pass this historic bill. Here in the House, we voted 121 Yes, and only 1 voted no. There were a few of our members who were eligible for a bonus that this bill will enable, and they were excused from the vote.
The bill shows the bipartisan commitment to taking care of our veterans. The bill includes bonuses to the veterans and gold star families who served our country after 9/11, and funds construction costs and enhancements to Veterans homes throughout Minnesota.
Other highlights from the bill include:
- $26 million for construction cost increases and enhancements/furnishings for the three new Veterans homes in Bemidji, Montevideo, and Preston.
- Veterans and gold star families who served post-9/11 will receive post-service bonus payments.
- Funding to address veteran homelessness, money for the State Veterans Cemetery in Redwood Falls, and other veterans-related programs.
I was proud to vote “yes” on this bill as we must honor our commitment to take care of the men, women, and their families that have served our nation.
Working for Minnesota Families
All of us are struggling as inflation continues to impact our family budgets. We see it everywhere including grocery prices, gas prices, home heating/energy bills, and more.
That’s why we need to put Minnesota's budget surplus back in your pocket through permanent tax relief.
Check out a brief video I recorded discussing taxes and the importance of returning the state’s budget surplus to taxpayers. Click here or the photo below to watch.
Staying in Touch
Please do not hesitate to reach out to me to share your thoughts, questions, and concerns. You can contact me at rep.donald.raleigh@house.mn or via phone at 651-296-2907.
Stay Strong and Stay Free!
Donald