Capitol News

After six bipartisan bills aimed at supporting Michigan's veterans and troops passed the state Senate, Democratic leaders are criticizing Speaker Matt Hall for not advancing the legislation in the state House. The bills—SB 207, 208, 215, and 540-542—are designed to improve access to benefits such as tuition assistance, child care support, and other forms of aid for veterans and active service members.

"MAGA Matt Hall is standing in the way of Michigan’s troops and veterans receiving the benefits they deserve after serving our country and fighting for our freedoms," said Curtis Hertel, Chair of the Michigan Democratic Party. "Michigan Democrats passed these bills with bipartisan support to help fund and expand veterans’ assistance programs, yet Hall is holding these bills hostage and playing political games with Michigan veterans’ livelihoods."

Hertel further stated: "Hall has already held nine bills up after multiple courts ruled that they should be sent to Governor Whitmer’s desk, but this is a new low, even for him. He is an embarrassment, and Michigan Democrats will do everything in their power to support the troops and veterans he is abandoning."

The legislation being delayed includes:

- SB 207/208: Establishes the Michigan Veterans Coalition Fund for grants related to veteran service operations. This would include providing advocacy and help for veterans seeking federal VA health care or financial benefits.

- SB 215: Expands criteria required when someone seeks compensation connected to an initial disability benefits claim.

- SB 540-542: Creates a benefit fund for Michigan National Guard members that would finance both tuition assistance programs and a new child care assistance program intended to help eligible Guard members cover child care costs during drills.