Legislation Will Spend Funds the Evers Administration Refuses to Use
MADISON – Representative Benjamin Franklin (R-De Pere) and Senator Eric Wimberger (R-Oconto) released the following statement after testifying before the Senate Committee on Mental Health, Substance Abuse Prevention, Children and Families on Senate Bills 608 and 609, which will ensure already-appropriated funds for the Veterans Housing and Recovery Program (VHRP) are spent to support Wisconsin’s homeless veterans, despite Governor Evers’ continued refusal to do so:
“Senate Bills 608 and 609 are the Legislature’s attempt to do what Governor Evers has refused to do, and spend funds that have already been set aside to support homeless veterans across Wisconsin,” Senator Wimberger stated. “We increased VHRP funding by 15 percent in the budget, yet the Governor closed two shelters. This legislation will take the already-appropriated funds and put them into a grant program so nonprofit groups and other organizations can work to house veterans in need across Wisconsin.”
“As an Air Force veteran, I know that when you raise your right hand, you make a lifelong commitment to serve something greater than yourself,” said Representative Franklin. “Senate Bills 608 and 609 reflect our responsibility to uphold our end of that commitment by ensuring homeless veterans have access to safe, stable housing and the resources they need to rebuild their lives. These bills also allow veterans to receive the care they need close to home, rather than having to travel across the state to access services. No veteran who served this country should ever be left without a place to call home. I am proud to have authored this legislation, and I will continue to stand with our fellow veterans.”
Despite increasing VHRP funding by 15% in the 2025-27 State Budget, Governor Evers chose to close two facilities housing homeless veterans in Chippewa Falls and Green Bay. Senate Bills 608 and 609 would use those appropriated funds to create a state grant program and award a $25 per diem payment per veteran housed to nonprofits and other non-governmental entities that serve homeless veterans. This legislation ensures that $1.9 million in funding Governor Evers has chosen not to spend can be put to good use by nonprofits and give housing and support to veterans in need.
