Study Finds Greatest Need For Veterans Nursing Home Is Here In South Central KY: Meredith Still Leads Way

Rep. Michael Lee Meredith (EV file photo)

EV Staff Report:
A recent feasibility study conducted by the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs said the greatest need for a veterans nursing home in the state is located in the region of south central Kentucky, a region that encompasses Bowling Green. Both Senator Mike Wilson (R-Bowling Green) and Representative Michael Meredith (R-Brownsville) have sponsored bills in the 2017 Legislative Session of the Kentucky General Assembly to address the issue. Both bills would move Kentucky up on the federal priority list for final approval, as it would illustrate the state has a vehicle for its share of the funding.
 
“The need for a veterans nursing facility in Bowling Green is something we have talked about for years, so I was pleased to see this study reiterate that need,” Sen. Mike Wilson said. “I plan to work with Representative Meredith, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and my colleagues in the Senate to ensure a bill gets passed that will support those who have served our country.”
 
Senate Bill 13 and House Bill 13 authorize the Department of Veterans' Affairs to use federal funds and bond funds in fiscal year 2016-2017 for the construction of the Bowling Green Veterans Center nursing home. The bills would also establish conditions and provide that if debt service is required, it shall be a necessary government expense to be paid from the General Fund Surplus Account or the Budget Reserve Trust Fund Account.
 
“I have always been fully engaged on veterans’ issues to benefit the brave men and women who have worn the uniform of our great nation,” said Rep. Meredith.  “In 2016, I led the charge to require the state to provide the matching funds for a Veterans’ Nursing Home in Bowling Green, and ultimately hope the results of this study will help us in securing the funding.  Sen. Wilson and I both understand the dire need that veterans have for more beds, better care, and accessible facilities in the Bowling Green area.”
Both bills have been filed with an emergency clause, which means they go into effect immediately once passed by the Legislature and signed by the Governor.
 
The second part of the 2017 Legislative Session, which runs 25 days in February and March, begins Tuesday, February 7. For more information on the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs, visit their website: http://veterans.ky.gov/.

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