HARRISBURG – Legislation seeking to enhance Pennsylvania’s six state Veterans Homes advanced from the General Assembly and is one step closer to becoming law, according to the bill’s sponsors Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-33) and Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20).
Through their established advisory councils, Senate Bill 129 would improve the overall oversight of the state Veterans Homes by requiring the councils to advise the state adjutant general on residents care, and facility operations and compliance; increasing each council’s membership to 15 members and stipulates compliance with open meeting requirements; and require the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs to provide an available subject matter expert for each council meeting as well as provide an annual report to the General Assembly.
“Many of our veterans and their families rely on the care and services provided by our state Veterans Homes,” said Mastriano. “This legislation ensures that the health and well being of these veterans remain a high priority while also making sure these homes are meeting the required standards of care to remain a valuable resource to our servicemembers in need.”
“Our veterans deserve the highest quality of care, and this bill strengthens oversight and transparency in our state veterans’ homes,” Baker said. “By giving families a seat at the table and ensuring open communication, we’re putting residents first and honoring their service with the accountability they deserve.”
Senate Bill 129 now awaits the governor’s signature.
Click HERE for Sen. Mastriano’s Floor Remarks.
CONTACTS: Nathan Silcox (Office of Sen. Mastriano)
Jennifer Wilson (Office of Sen. Baker)