05 January 2006

Sebelius proposes help for Kansas veterans
Governor’s budget to include new veteran services reps, other assistance

Kansas has a long, proud military tradition, and taking care of Kansas’ veterans is among Governor Kathleen Sebelius’ continuing missions.

The Governor is taking several actions to improve the level of service veterans receive, including adding two new veteran services representatives and increasing financial support for the Kansas Commission on Veterans’ Affairs.

“From the very founding of our state, service to country has been a core value for Kansans. I value the sacrifices made by our military men and women, and I want them to receive the respect and the assistance they deserve,” said Sebelius.

The Governor’s budget, to be released next week, will include funds for two new representatives to help veterans obtain benefits. It also includes additional training for all veteran services representatives.

“Because our nation values military service, there are a variety of benefits available to veterans – from health care to student aid,” said Sebelius. “But sometimes it is hard to navigate the federal bureaucracy to get these benefits. That’s where service reps come in. They work one-on-one with veterans to help ensure they get the benefits they deserve.”

Sebelius visited Kansas troops during a Thanksgiving trip to the Middle East last year, which included stops in Iraq and Afghanistan. She said it was important to keep the promises the nation has made to these men and women, and to all veterans.

Overall, the Governor’s proposed budget increases funding for veteran services to $2.1 million – a 24% increase from the $1.7 million spent in the first budget of her administration.

This help for veterans is on top of the Kansas Military Bill of Rights, which the Governor signed into law last year. It is designed to help ease the financial strains of military service, and includes assistance such as college tuition for children and spouses of service members killed in action or declared POW/MIA.

In addition to new veteran services representatives, in her budget the Governor is proposing installing back-up power generators at the Fort Dodge Soldiers’ Home and Winfield Veterans’ Home. These will ensure an uninterrupted electricity supply for the homes. She is also proposing building and opening the Ft. Riley Cemetery. Finally, the State of Kansas is providing more state support for the Winfield Veterans Home to offset lower than expected federal funding.

The Governor’s FY 2007 budget will require approval by the Kansas Legislature.