WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Dave Taylor (OH-02) has introduced the Veterans First Act of 2025, a bill aimed at redirecting $2 billion in USAID funds toward State Veterans Homes in need of repairs and renovations. The legislation, co-sponsored by Reps. Wesley Hunt (TX-38), Nick LaLota (NY-01), Tony Wied (WI-08), Bob Onder (MO-03), and Pat Harrigan (NC-10), seeks to reallocate taxpayer dollars that would otherwise be spent on foreign aid programs.
“Our veterans put America first in their service to our country, and it’s only fair that we return the favor,” said Congressman Taylor. “We should be directing taxpayer dollars to ensure our State Veterans Homes have the funding they need instead of sending it overseas for DEI initiatives in Serbia. Under President Trump, Republicans are getting our Nation’s priorities straight—and veterans are at the top of the list.”
Key Provisions of the Bill:
- Redirects $2 billion from USAID programs to fund repairs and upgrades at State Veterans Homes.
- Provides funding to cover all Priority 1 VA State Home Construction grants, ensuring ready-to-go projects receive necessary federal matching funds.
- Reorients national spending priorities to focus on America’s veterans.
Background on State Veterans Homes:
There are over 160 State Veterans Homes across the country, providing long-term care for approximately 20,000 veterans. These facilities, supported by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), rely on federal and state funding to maintain operations and infrastructure. In Ohio, two State Veterans Homes—one in Georgetown and another in Sandusky—serve the state’s veteran population.
While the VA covers up to 65% of construction and renovation costs through grants, funding delays often stall critical projects for years. The Veterans First Act of 2025 aims to eliminate these bottlenecks, ensuring that federal dollars are allocated efficiently to improve conditions for veterans in need.
For more details on the bill, The full bill text is available here:
