Transcript Highlights:

• in that they're dealing with the state Veterans Assistance Department, and that there are no veterans
• veterans was 34.7.
• face internally, because I know that many veterans go to the Veterans Administration and Veterans Services
• face internally because I know that many veterans go to the veterans administration and veterans services
• because they feel ...to the Veterans Administration and Veterans Services because they feel safe.

Keywords: 996, all

Summary: The House Labor, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee met with a quorum and heard two bills from Representative Martinez. House Bill 56 would appropriate $1 million to the Department of Veterans Services to expand behavioral health and suicide prevention efforts for veterans. Supporters, including the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce, the Department of Veterans Services, the Disability Coalition, New Mexico Professional Firefighters, the New Mexico Veterans and Military Families Caucus, and NAMI New Mexico, said the funding would help veterans navigate a difficult system, improve outreach in rural areas, and address New Mexico’s high veteran suicide rate and related alcohol and drug deaths. Committee members asked about whether the program was new or an expansion of an existing effort, how services would be delivered, and whether outreach would reach homeless and rural veterans. The secretary explained that the bill would augment an existing Suicide Prevention Act program, use contracts with outside providers rather than direct services, and require two term employees for contract management and outreach. The committee voted 7-1 to give HB 56 a due pass and send it to the next committee. The committee then heard House Bill 55, which would create an income tax deduction for retirement income earned by first responders, similar to an existing benefit for military retirees. Supporters argued it would help recruit and retain firefighters, law enforcement, and other first responders, and could encourage retirees to move to New Mexico and contribute economically. Several members raised concerns about the fiscal impact, the lack of a sunset, the narrow definition of first responder, and Taxation and Revenue Department concerns that the bill could reduce general fund revenue by about $6.1 million in the first year and might not attract retirees on its own. The sponsor said he had not yet met with Tax and Rev but would do so, and noted he was open to a sunset if it helped the bill move forward. Despite concerns, the committee voted 7-1 to pass HB 55 to the next committee, with members explaining their votes and emphasizing that the bill would receive further vetting in Tax and Revenue.

Transcript Highlights:

• Charles County and you see the word veteran on anything, Veterans Memorial Parkway, Veterans Memorial
• Provide a safe space for veterans. Veteran History Project.
• He's a Vietnam veteran.
• local veterans, but whatever.
• , but non-veteran activities.

Keywords: 959, house, all

Summary: The House Committee on Veterans and Armed Forces met primarily for a presentation from Nina DiAngelo, executive director of the Mid-America Veterans Museum in O’Fallon. DiAngelo described the museum’s mission to preserve veteran stories, educate the public, and provide a free, accessible space for veterans and families. She outlined the museum’s origins with World War II veteran Ralph Borrelli Sr., its growth over eight years, and its work collecting more than 650 direct stories, over 2,000 Veteran History Project submissions for the Library of Congress, and more than 77 podcast episodes. She emphasized the museum’s role in healing, citing examples of veterans and families who found support there, and asked legislators to help expand the museum’s reach across Missouri through outreach, partnerships, and modernization efforts. Committee members and guests responded with personal reflections and support. Several members shared connections to the museum and to veterans whose stories had been preserved there, and praised the museum as a place of comfort, remembrance, and community engagement. Discussion also touched on the importance of veterans sharing their stories with family and the public, and on using tools like QR codes and digital preservation to make those stories more accessible. Members noted the museum’s broader community role beyond veterans alone and encouraged others to visit. DiAngelo also invited the committee to an upcoming four-day “Light and the Shadows” event in August marking the fifth anniversary of the Abbey Gate bombing, featuring a memorial for the 13 fallen and the Veterans and Athletes United Traveling Memorial. The committee took no formal votes or legislative action and adjourned after the presentation and comments.

Transcript Highlights:

• Association for Veterans Rights.
• Department of Veterans Affairs.
• </c> Department of Veterans Affairs. Department of Veterans Affairs.
• </c> with their veteran service organization. with their veteran service organization.
• </c> somebody else other than that veteran. somebody else other than that veteran.

Keywords: 958, all

Transcript Highlights:

• We owe it to our veterans.
• Veterans Service Officers, the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, AMVETS, AARP, PORAC, SEIU,
• It doesn't allow you to get a veteran to go after a veteran straight out of their service.
• Today I rise, not because, you know, I'm a veteran, but because I'm a veteran, but because I'm a...
• for free to veterans.

Keywords: 987, senate, all

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, observed a moment of silence, offered prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, recognized visiting groups in the gallery, and approved the Senate journals. The body then confirmed two gubernatorial appointments: Dr. Hernando Garsohn as Chief Medical Officer of the Emergency Medical Services Authority and Stephanie Weldon as Deputy Director of the Office of Health Equity at the Department of Public Health, both by unanimous or near-unanimous roll call votes. On third reading, the Senate passed a series of bills on housing, labor, public health, AI, veterans, land use, and environmental issues. Measures included SB 799 revising the South Bay Regional Housing Trust statute, SB 33 making permanent a public works claim-resolution process for contractor payments, SB 222 streamlining heat pump permitting, SB 300 strengthening protections for minors from harmful chatbot content, SB 457 expanding community land trust options, SB 479 authorizing city-based homeless response multidisciplinary teams, SB 722 restoring mobile home anti-demolition protections, SB 828 requiring better state-local permit data sharing after the Esparto fireworks tragedy, and SB 742 addressing decommissioned electrical lines in response to the Altadena fire. Most of these bills passed with strong bipartisan support or unanimous votes. The most extended debate centered on SB 694, which would align California law with federal VA accreditation rules and restrict paid veterans’ claims assistance to accredited providers. Supporters argued it would protect veterans from predatory “claim shark” practices and cited backing from veterans groups, the Attorney General, and Speaker Emerita Pelosi; opponents said it would reduce veterans’ choice and could limit access to needed help. After a motion to pull the bill from committee and take it up without reference to file passed 29-9, the Senate approved SB 694. Additional debated measures included SB 342 on contractor license lapses, SB 490 on inspections of unlicensed treatment facilities, SB 849 barring physician license renewal after specified sexual misconduct, SB 58 on hydrogen sulfide monitoring, and SB 299 easing CEQA-related barriers for child care centers in residential zones. The session ended with unanimous approval of several consent items and adjournment until January 27, 2026.

Transcript Highlights:

• We owe it to our veterans.
• It doesn't allow you to get a veteran to go after a veteran straight out of their service.
• My colleague, also a veteran, Senator Grove, is someone who has fought for veterans, and so her words
• Today I rise, not because, you know, I'm a veteran, but because I'm a veteran, but because I'm a...
• Some arguments against the bill say it limits veterans' choice, yet this bill actually protects veterans

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, observed a moment of silence for Alex Prettie, offered prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, and recognized several visiting groups in the gallery, including UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute fellows and community college representatives. The body approved the Senate journals and then confirmed two gubernatorial appointments: Dr. Hernando Garsohn as Chief Medical Officer at the Emergency Medical Services Authority and Stephanie Weldon as Deputy Director of the Office of Health Equity at the Department of Public Health, both by 39-0 votes. The chamber then took up a series of third-reading bills. Measures that passed included SB 799 on the South Bay Regional Housing Trust, SB 33 on public contracts and contractor payment claims, SB 222 to streamline permitting for heat pump installations, SB 300 to strengthen protections for minors in AI chatbot interactions, SB 457 on community land trusts and affordable housing, SB 479 allowing certain cities to share information in homeless response teams, SB 719 extending a reporting sunset on automated decision systems, SB 722 protecting mobile home park residents from demolition-related displacement, SB 832 updating the Upper Los Angeles River working group, SB 342 on contractor license lapse rules, SB 490 on inspections of unlicensed treatment facilities, SB 828 requiring better state-local permit verification after the Esparto fireworks tragedy, SB 849 barring physician license renewal after specified sexual misconduct, SB 742 addressing decommissioned electrical lines and wildfire risk, SB 96 on over-amplified streaming and digital ads, SB 677 as a technical cleanup to last year’s housing law, and SB 58 on hydrogen sulfide monitoring and public health. Most of these bills passed unanimously or with overwhelming support; SB 222 and SB 677 drew some no votes but still passed. The most extended debate centered on SB 694, which would align California law with federal VA accreditation rules for those assisting veterans with benefits claims and impose penalties for unauthorized claims assistance and data access. Supporters argued it would protect veterans from predatory “claim shark” practices and ensure only accredited providers charge fees; opponents said it would reduce veterans’ choice and could limit access to needed help. After a motion to pull the bill from Rules and take it up immediately passed 29-9, the Senate approved SB 694 on a 29-10 vote. The session concluded with unanimous approval of the consent calendar and adjournment until January 27, 2026.

Transcript Highlights:

• Through our Veterans Helping Veterans campaign, residents assemble care packages for homebound veterans
• You've got veterans. You have sons of veterans, daughters of veterans. You have a Gold Star father.
• That can help both veterans and the veteran that's sheltered. And my last thing is veteran suicide.
• So, and that's key, I think, veterans helping veterans.
• So, and that's key, I think, veterans helping veterans.

Keywords: 1212, all

Transcript Highlights:

• So if I may now, ladies and gentlemen and veterans, first off, I'd like to thank all the veterans that
• its veterans.
• Veterans Service Officers.
• Veterans Council, a coalition of 22 veterans organizations, all strongly support this bill.
• Veterans Council, a coalition of 22 veterans organizations, all strongly support this bill.

Summary: The Senate Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs met on June 22 with several members initially absent, so the committee began as a subcommittee and later established a quorum. The committee first heard AB 1775, which would provide California support for transgender service members and veterans affected by a federal executive order requiring their separation from service. The author and witnesses described the policy as discriminatory and destabilizing, and supporters from civil rights and LGBTQ+ organizations urged passage. No opposition testimony was offered, and the chair and members expressed support for helping affected veterans with discharge upgrades, housing assistance, and expedited professional licensing. The committee then heard AB 2022, which expands the disabled veterans property tax exemption by creating a full exemption for certain totally disabled veterans meeting income limits and a 50% exemption for others, while preserving existing benefits. The author, a disabled Marine veteran, and multiple veterans’ organizations testified that the measure would help veterans remain in their homes and keep them in California; a Gold Star spouse also spoke in support. The bill was moved on a due pass motion to the Committee on Appropriations, with the roll held open until additional members arrived, and the consent calendar was later approved 4-0. Next, the committee heard AB 2054, which updates the definition of covered active duty for paid family leave purposes so military families can qualify when service members are deployed, activated for emergencies such as wildfires, or sent to extended training. Supporters, including Department of Defense and veterans’ representatives, said the bill reflects modern military service and protects families during disruptions. The committee also heard AB 2531, which would expand an existing uncompensated care grant program so veterans denied abortion care through the federal VA system can access support, and would add abortion resource information to CalVet materials. Support came from Planned Parenthood, the California Medical Association, the Lieutenant Governor’s office, and others; one member of the public raised concerns about coercion but did not clearly oppose the bill. All three bills were advanced on due pass motions to Appropriations, and the meeting adjourned after the final votes.

Transcript Highlights:

• Chair and members, House Bill 2960 establishes the Veterans Specialty Court grant program and the Veterans
• House Bill 2960 establishes the Veterans Specialty Grant Program and the Veterans Treatment Court Fund
• lists of incarcerated veterans to assist with veterans benefits and services.
• what veterans services are available to him.
• What happens is when a veteran is going through the system, if they are a veteran, and the prosecutorial

Bills: HB2620, HB2960

Keywords: homeless veterans, emergency shelters, state funding, veterans' services, grant distribution, veterans, treatment court, rehabilitation, recidivism, mental health, substance abuse, 1182, all

Transcript Highlights:

• In our continued fight against veteran homelessness, we remain committed to our end veteran homelessness
• long-term veteran care.
• A part of what I mentioned here, particularly when it comes to veterans and veteran homelessness, is
• How do we recognize veterans?
• A veteran, World War II, Korea, Vietnam: 'Oh, let's support the veterans who actually need help.'

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The hearing opened with remarks from Senate Chair Robyn Kennedy and House Chair Chynah Tyler, who emphasized that the fiscal year 2026 hearing was focused on the Health and Human Services budget, asked members to keep questions budget-related, and noted that no public testimony would be taken. They also highlighted the choice of Doherty Memorial High School as the venue to showcase Worcester’s investment in career and technical education. Committee members then introduced themselves before the first panel, the Executive Office of Veterans Services and the state veterans homes, began testimony. Secretary John Santiago said the governor’s FY26 proposal would support implementation of the HERO Act, which he said is now about 95% implemented, including higher disabled veteran annuities, expanded behavioral health benefits, and other service expansions. He described efforts to reduce veteran homelessness, including nearly $20 million in ARPA-funded housing and outreach initiatives, and said the agency has delivered more than 100,000 supportive services to nearly 8,500 veterans. Leaders from the Chelsea and Holyoke veterans homes reported on staffing, quality measures, electronic medical records, and major construction projects at both facilities, including a new Chelsea campus and the new Holyoke home. Members asked about funding transfers, geographic equity in access to the homes, outreach to women veterans and veterans of color, suicide prevention, Gold Star family support, and the impact of federal uncertainty; Santiago said the homes are now licensed and certified, that the current budget is sufficient, and that the agency is expanding engagement and data collection. The second panel, the Office of the Veteran Advocate, testified that its FY26 request is about $3.3 million, up from the current $2 million, to cover staffing, a larger office, and higher technology costs. Veteran Advocate Bob Notch said the office is a new independent oversight agency created in 2022 to examine systems, coordinate with local veteran service officers, and investigate fatalities or serious harm involving veterans in state care. He said the office’s work depends on research, data, and collaboration with other agencies, and that current funding is only enough for minimum operations. In response to questions, Notch and Deputy Commissioner David O’Callaghan discussed the difficulty of tracking veteran suicides, the need for better data across agencies, and the office’s role as an oversight body rather than a direct service provider. No votes or formal actions were taken during the hearing.

Transcript Highlights:

• Veterans across the state is about making sure California stands with veterans, veterans across the state
• its veterans.
• Veterans Service Officers.
• Veterans Council, a coalition of 22 veterans organizations, all strongly support this bill.
• Veterans Service Officers.

Keywords: 987, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• to meet other veterans.
• If they want to talk to a veteran, they can. They are not the only veterans on campus.
• And yes, we do have veterans here.
• Here are some of our veteran-specific services. Last year, we served 582 veterans.
• I can give one example of a veteran who came in seeking assistance; this veteran was one we helped to

Transcript Highlights:

• You've got veterans. You have sons of veterans, daughters of veterans. You have a Gold Star father.
• That can help both veterans and the veteran that's sheltered. And my last thing is veteran suicide.
• a veteran.
• So, and that's key, I think, veterans helping veterans.
• So, and that's key, I think, veterans helping veterans.

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The hearing was a FY27 budget session on Health and Human Services held in Mattapan, hosted by the Joint Committee on Ways and Means. Opening remarks from Senator Lydia Edwards, Representative Brandy Fluker-Reed, Representative Russell Holmes, and Boston Public Library President David Leonard emphasized the significance of holding the first Ways and Means hearing in Mattapan, the importance of community access, and the role of libraries as human services institutions. Committee members and attendees introduced themselves before agency testimony began. MassAbility testified first, describing its mission to support people with disabilities through employment, independent living, and disability determination services. The agency highlighted federal funding uncertainty, a modest FY27 budget reduction, and a proposed reworking of its home care program, which it said is outdated and should better target those most in need. Members questioned the home care cut, staffing reductions, and federal coordination. MassAbility also shared a participant story about recovery and community support to illustrate the impact of its services. The Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing then presented its FY27 request, focusing on interpreter and captioning access, workforce development, emergency communication, aging-related hearing loss, and transition services for deaf and hard-of-hearing youth. Members asked about interpreter shortages, after-hours emergency coverage, ASL education, and community training; the commission said it is expanding mentorship and referral systems but still faces staffing and vendor challenges. The Massachusetts Commission for the Blind followed with a $30.8 million request, describing services for nearly 9,000 consumers, peer support groups, vocational rehabilitation, and Turning 22 services, while noting federal funding uncertainty and a 7% budget cut. Members raised concerns about maintaining services with fewer resources, and the commissioner said the agency had trimmed overhead and could manage the proposal. The Office for Refugees and Immigrants closed the segment, outlining expanded legal, housing, workforce, citizenship, and financial literacy supports for immigrants and refugees, including Know Your Rights trainings, legal defense initiatives, and the Massachusetts Access to Counsel Initiative. Members discussed the effects of federal policy changes, the loss of refugee resettlement funding, and the need for state support to fill gaps. No votes were taken in the portion provided; the hearing consisted of agency presentations and committee questioning.

Transcript Highlights:

• Through our Veterans Helping Veterans campaign, residents assemble care packages for homebound veterans
• You've got veterans. You have sons of veterans, daughters of veterans. You have a Gold Star father.
• That can help both veterans and the veteran that's sheltered. And my last thing is veteran suicide.
• , and it's the same for veteran services, we serve veterans.
• So, and that's key, I think, veterans helping veterans.

Summary: The Joint Committee on Ways and Means held an FY27 Health and Human Services budget hearing in Mattapan, hosted at the Boston Public Library branch. Chairs Lydia Edwards and Russell Holmes, along with Rep. Brandy Fluker-Reid, emphasized the significance of holding the first Ways and Means hearing ever in Mattapan and highlighted the importance of bringing state budget deliberations into a majority-Black neighborhood. Several legislators introduced themselves as they joined, and the committee noted that public testimony was not part of the format, though agencies were invited to discuss priorities and challenges. MassAbility opened the agency testimony. Leadership described the agency’s mission to support people with disabilities through employment, training, home and community life services, and disability determination. They said Governor Healey’s FY27 budget funds MassAbility at $93.3 million, a 1% reduction from FY26, and explained that the agency is responding to federal funding uncertainty and shifting program needs by redesigning services internally. Members questioned a proposed $1.3 million reduction to the Home Care Program, staffing changes, and whether services could be maintained with fewer resources. MassAbility said it was reviewing data on who uses the program, that it does not provide nursing or personal care, and that it is working with a transition plan and a working group. The agency also discussed federal uncertainty around vocational rehabilitation funding and said it had received delayed federal awards but remained in contact with national associations and federal partners. The testimony included a personal story from a participant, Joshua Corcoran, to illustrate the impact of services. The Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing testified next, requesting $11.27 million, about a 6% increase over FY26. The commission said it serves about 1.4 million residents and focuses on communication access in health care, courts, public safety, and other public systems. It highlighted interpreter and captioner workforce shortages, a mentorship program to expand the provider pool, and a modernized referral platform funded through capital contingency money. Members asked about interpreter availability, after-hours emergency coverage, ASL access for students and families, and training for police and emergency responders. The commission said staffing remains limited, especially for after-hours services, but that it is expanding training, school outreach, and partnerships with DCF and other agencies. The Massachusetts Commission for the Blind then presented its FY27 budget request of $30.8 million. The commissioner said the agency serves nearly 9,000 legally blind residents, provides training and peer support, and placed 190 consumers in competitive integrated employment this year. It also described services for older adults, vocational rehabilitation, and the Turning 22 program for young adults with additional disabilities. Members raised concerns about a 7% cut from the prior year and asked how the agency could maintain services; the commissioner said the agency had no waiting list, had trimmed overhead, and could manage the budget through internal efficiencies and strong partnerships. The Office for Refugees and Immigrants closed the session, describing expanded legal and support services for immigrants and refugees, including Know Your Rights trainings, the Massachusetts Access to Counsel Initiative, citizenship and financial literacy programs, and the Family Welcome Center in Mattapan. Members asked about federal funding losses and the structure of the new legal services program; ORI said FY26 funding is stable but FY27 federal cuts remain uncertain, and that the legal program uses a centralized intake system with priority for emergencies and first-come, first-served access.

Transcript Highlights:

• veterans.
• He said the Missouri Veterans Commission has 52 veteran service officers, and the veteran service organizations
• I think more options for veterans is important. And we are all veterans here.
• I think more options for veterans is important. And we're all veterans here.
• Veterans United is an example of a service that works for veterans.

Summary: The Committee on Veterans and Armed Forces met with a quorum and began with remarks honoring veterans on the committee, including presentation of Capitol-flown flags and certificates. The chair also announced new decorum rules, including a ban on hats except religious headwear, and reminded members about the importance of truthful testimony. The committee then moved into executive session to consider several bills related to veterans’ issues and benefits. The committee first took up House Bill 3029, which dealt with regulating veterans benefits matters and limiting bad actors who charge veterans for claims assistance. Members discussed concerns about private companies, accredited service officers, veterans’ choice, and whether the bill would reduce access or create future problems with VA reviews. Amendments were adopted to clarify that the bill would not cover housing loans and to remove a paragraph affecting certain registered providers. After debate, the committee voted 14-7 to do pass the House Committee Substitute for HB 3029. The committee then approved House Bill 3280, concerning spouse disability license plates, by a unanimous 21-0 vote. Next, the committee considered House Bill 2306 along with related bills HB 2276 and HB 2089 in a combined committee substitute. The measure would create property tax exemptions for disabled veterans and surviving spouses based on assessed value, with categories tied to disability ratings. Members asked detailed questions about how the exemption would interact with short-term rentals, remarriage, unoccupied homes, and the senior tax freeze. The sponsor explained the exemption would apply to a qualified primary residence and continue in certain cases such as assisted living or veterans homes. The committee adopted the substitute and then voted 18-2 to do pass the combined bill package. After the votes, the committee heard testimony from Heather, founder and executive director of Healing House and New Beginnings, a Christ-centered recovery program for women with substance use disorder. She described the program’s housing, recovery support, accreditation, and community outreach, and members praised its work. The committee also heard from Steve Baker of the Cass County Veterans Coalition, who described a local volunteer network that connects veterans to jobs and services. He emphasized that the coalition does not provide services itself but helps veterans find the right resources. The meeting concluded with no further business and adjournment.

Transcript Highlights:

• We owe it to our veterans.
• Veterans Service Officers, the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, AMVETS, AARP, PORAC, SEIU,
• Today I rise, not because, you know, I'm a veteran, but because I'm a veteran, but because I'm a...
• Today I rise, not because, you know, I'm a veteran, but because I'm a veteran, but because I'm a...
• available for free to veterans.

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, observed a moment of silence, offered prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, and recognized several guest delegations, including UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute fellows and community college representatives. The body approved the Senate journals and then moved through gubernatorial appointments, confirming Dr. Hernando Garsohn as Chief Medical Officer at the Emergency Medical Services Authority and Stephanie Weldon as Deputy Director of the Office of Health Equity at the Department of Public Health, both by 39-0 votes. The chamber then took up a series of third-reading bills. Measures approved included SB 799 on the South Bay Regional Housing Trust, SB 33 on prompt payment for public works contractors, SB 222 to streamline permitting for heat pump installations, SB 300 strengthening protections for minors in AI chatbot interactions, SB 457 expanding support for community land trusts, SB 479 authorizing city-based homeless response multidisciplinary teams, SB 719 extending a reporting sunset on automated decision systems, SB 722 protecting mobile home park residents from demolition-related displacement, SB 832 updating the Upper Los Angeles River working group, SB 342 limiting forfeiture when a contractor’s license lapses, SB 490 allowing local inspections of unlicensed treatment facilities with state approval, SB 828 requiring permit-data verification for fireworks and explosives facilities, SB 849 barring physicians who committed sexual misconduct from license renewal, SB 742 addressing decommissioned electric lines in response to the Altadena fire, SB 96 regulating amplified advertising on streaming and related platforms, and SB 58 updating hydrogen sulfide monitoring and response standards. Most passed unanimously; SB 222 and SB 677 drew some opposition, and SB 222 passed 38-3. A major floor debate centered on SB 694, which would restrict unaccredited private firms from charging fees to assist veterans with VA benefits claims and align state law with federal accreditation rules. Supporters argued the bill would protect veterans from predatory “claim shark” practices and preserve access through accredited providers, while opponents said it would limit veterans’ choice and could reduce access to needed help. After a motion to pull the bill from Rules and take it up immediately passed 29-9, the Senate approved SB 694 by a 39-0 vote. The session ended with unanimous approval of the consent calendar items and adjournment until January 27, 2026.

Transcript Highlights:

• That's a lot of veterans that can be served and can have an impact on. 20, 25% of veterans are experiencing
• Veterans are experiencing that PTSD.
• So the veteran can I mean, uh, Them.
• So our veterans are all across the countries.
• And if you're not a veteran, but you have a family member who has been a veteran, I greatly appreciate

Summary: The Veterans and Armed Forces Committee heard presentations from three organizations focused on veteran support and mental health. Dogs for Our Brave described its service-dog program for veterans with mobility limitations and PTSD, emphasizing the dogs’ daily assistance with tasks like retrieving items, opening doors, bracing, and getting help, as well as the emotional benefits for veterans and their families. The group said each dog costs about $50,000 to train, with total lifetime support for a veteran-dog team estimated at $75,000 to $125,000, and noted it serves veterans nationwide from a St. Louis base. Committee members asked about fundraising, expansion, and what happens to a dog if a veteran dies; the organization said it relies mainly on private donations and grants, is moving into a larger facility that will increase capacity, and would try to repurpose a dog when appropriate, with family wishes considered first. Dalton Schmidt of Warriors’ Hoof Haven outlined a newer, free program for combat veterans and their families centered on horses, farming, outdoor recreation, and community outreach. He said the group is based near Thomas Hill Lake in Huntsville on 13 acres and is building activities such as horse handling and riding, meat chicken and produce farming, fishing, kayaking, jet skis, boats, firewood delivery, food bundles, and farm-tool lending. He said the organization funds its work through grants, donations, and sponsors, and that its goal is to reduce financial barriers and get veterans back into the community. Members asked about fundraising and the venison-for-vets effort, which Schmidt said is run by Truman VA and is supported by his group through incentives and outreach. Brian Nooner, founder of the Mental Health Huddle and a commissioner with the Department of Mental Health, gave a personal account of his own depression, anxiety, PTSD, and isolation after a serious fall and a prolonged COVID-related recovery. He said his experience led him to create the Mental Health Huddle to encourage people to seek help, reduce stigma, identify triggers, avoid one-way relationships, and find hope through faith, family, or other supports. He stressed that he is not a medical professional but a patient sharing resources and said the effort is aimed at making help free and confidential. Committee members thanked him for his testimony and courage, and the chair adjourned the committee after the presentations.

Transcript Highlights:

• That's a lot of veterans that can be served and can have an impact on. 20 to 25% of veterans are experiencing
• Veterans are experiencing that PTSD.
• So our veterans are all across the countries.
• Like I said, we're dedicated to combat veterans.
• And if you're not a veteran, but you have a family member who has been a veteran, I greatly appreciate

Keywords: 959, house, all

Summary: The committee heard presentations from several veteran-support organizations and an individual speaker. Dogs for Our Brave described its service-dog program for veterans with mobility injuries and PTSD, emphasizing the dogs’ training, rehabilitation of rescued animals, and skills such as retrieval, bracing, and getting help. Testimony highlighted the program’s impact on veterans and families, the 24-month training process, the high cost of training and lifetime care, and the organization’s plans to expand with a larger St. Louis facility. Committee members asked about fundraising, statewide expansion, and what happens to a service dog if a veteran dies; the witnesses said placement decisions are handled case by case and that dogs are generally kept within veteran-serving placements when possible. Dalton Schmidt of Warriors’ Hoof Haven then outlined a new combat-veteran support program in Huntsville centered on horses, farming, outdoor recreation, and community outreach. He said the group offers free access to horses, farm products, firewood, hunting and fishing opportunities, kayaks, and other equipment to reduce barriers and help veterans and their families get outside and stay engaged. He said the organization relies on grants, donations, and sponsors, and members discussed its location, acreage, and plans to expand its services. The final presentation came from Brian Nooner of the Mental Health Huddle, who shared his personal experience with depression, PTSD, anxiety, isolation during COVID, and near-death medical crises. He described his effort to reduce stigma and connect people to free, confidential mental health resources, especially veterans, and urged people to seek help, identify triggers, avoid one-way relationships, and find hope through faith, family, or support networks. Committee members thanked him for his testimony and courage, and the committee then adjourned without taking any votes or formal actions.

Transcript Highlights:

• Involved in the veterans community.
• My husband is an Army veteran and a New Mexico Army National Guard veteran, Gulf War, serving in the
• So every school has their own Veterans Resource Center, Veterans Department type thing.
• The fear that our veterans have, it's all about trust when we talk about veterans.
• Of Veterans Services.

Transcript Highlights:

• of County Veterans Service Offices sponsored and hoped for a fourth year of a veterans omnibus bill.
• We've opened three new state veterans homes and one new state veterans cemetery.
• As of March 20th, 2025, 4,190 veterans have been housed off the homeless veteran registry since it was
• Something important to me: 20 to 28% were female veterans who were food insecure, and 35% were veterans
• . veterans experiencing serious mental health challenges, and almost half of food-insecure veterans were

Transcript Highlights:

• Veterans Crisis Line and Veterans Health Administration, and making drastic cuts to programs that veterans
• VETERANS CRISIS LINE AND VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION, AND MAKING DRASTIC CUTS TO PROGRAMS THAT VETERANS
• As a disabled veteran, I'm proud to lead this legislation on behalf of our veterans community.
• We've worked closely with the Peltz family, veteran service organizations, the Department of Veterans
• We've worked closely with the Peltz family, veteran service organizations, the Department of Veterans

Keywords: U.S. House of Representatives Floor Proceedings on Monday, February 2, 2026, 1012, house, all