On Friday with bipartisan support, the Senate passed the State Government and Elections omnibus budget bill, focusing on good governance, eliminating waste, and promoting fair and free elections. Included in the bill is language authored by Senator Andrew Lang (R-Olivia) that focuses on advancing support for Minnesota Veterans. Specifically included are initiatives that focus on assisting Minnesota veterans through the funding and establishment of key services and programs.  

“I’m glad that the final State Government budget includes so many provisions that support veterans across generations,” said Sen. Lang. “We were able to provide financial resources to develop the Veteran homes in Montevideo, Bemidji, and Preston, we made significant investments in preventing suicide among veterans, and we included the Veterans Restorative Justice Act. Our Veterans have given so much for our country, and I’m happy we were able to fund these important programs that focus on addressing their needs—this bill is a success for our Veterans.”

The most notable inclusion is the Veterans Restorative Justice Act, which provides that when a veteran has committed certain offenses and the offense can be tied to the trauma, PTSD, or health issues associated with their service, a judge may use alternative sentencing options. Many veterans return from service with substance abuse and other health-related challenges that often result in criminal offenses. When these are treatable conditions and the offenses are narrow enough, this language will provide the help needed to treat service-induced health issues. 

There are also financial resources being allocated to fully develop Veterans homes in Montevideo, Bemidji, and Preston. This will help prepare our care options for senior veterans, especially as increasing numbers of the baby boomer generation require heightened levels of care.

The State Government bill passed in the Senate, and now goes to the House for a vote, before heading to the Governor’s desk for a final signature.