Rep. Steve Knight

Representative Steve Knight (CA-25) led an effort to provide much-needed federal funds for California’s State Veterans Home program.

There are 8 State Veterans Homes in California that provide California’s aged and disabled veterans with rehabilitative, residential, and medical care and services in a home-like environment. The initiative, which serves over 3,000 veterans in the state, has several locations in Southern California including West Los Angeles, Ventura, and Lancaster. The national program currently faces a backlog of $640 million in deferred maintenance, which threatens its capacity and quality of service.

In a letter to the Chairman Charlie Dent (PA-15) and Ranking Member Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies, Knight urged an increase in spending on the program in order to ensure its continued success.

“Originally formed after the Civil War to give shelter to disabled and homeless veterans, these homes have served veterans in our communities for well over one hundred years,” Knight states in the letter. “Our veterans sacrifice dearly for us, and we must in turn ensure they receive proper medical care.”

Knight was joined in his request by fellow California Representatives Colonel Paul Cook (CA-8), Duncan Hunter (CA-52), and Doug LaMalfa (CA-1).

“I’ve seen firsthand the incredible support that CalVet Veterans Homes provide to veterans in our community, and I am thankful to my colleagues for joining me in this important effort,” said Knight. “I will continue to fight to improve and increase services for the brave men and women who selflessly served our country.”

A copy of Knight’s letter can be found below.