Rep. Meredith Pre-Files Bill to Bring Veterans Nursing Home to Bowling Green

Rep. Michael Lee Meredith (EV file photo)

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 28, 2016) – In an effort to serve the growing population of veterans in South Central Kentucky, Representative Michael Meredith, R-Brownsville, filed legislation today to secure funding for a veterans nursing home in Bowling Green.
 
“This facility is vital to providing important services to deserving veterans in our region,” said Rep. Meredith, who represents Edmonson County and part of Warren County. “During the 2016 Regular Session, I led efforts to successfully include this funding in the House version of the state budget. The amendment narrowly passed by a vote of 49-46 due to strong opposition from House Democrats. Unfortunately, the provision stalled in final budget negotiations.”
 
Rep. Meredith’s bill includes funding for a proposed 90-bed veterans nursing home in Bowling Green, which would serve the region's approximately 40,000 veterans. The project is on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' list of priority projects, and nearly $20 million of the proposed $30 million project will be provided by the federal government. However, the project cannot move forward without $10.5 million in state matching funds.
 
“In 2016, this was my number one priority,” added Meredith. “I was hopeful heading into conference committee that funding would still be added. Since that did not happen, I have begun working diligently toward completion of this project, beginning with pre-filing this bill today. We owe much to our veterans, and we must ensure they are taken care of for the incredible service they have given to our country.”

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