East Idaho Times

U.S. Senator Mike Crapo, along with Senator Jim Risch and John Boozman, has introduced the Waiving Arbitrary and Inconsistent Veteran home Eligibility Requirements (WAIVER) Act to address the issue of delays in updating veterans' facilities in Idaho and across the nation. The legislation aims to ensure that projects intended to benefit veterans can move forward without unnecessary interruptions.

Senator Crapo emphasized the importance of the WAIVER Act, stating, "America’s veterans have given everything to preserve our freedom. Arbitrary delays to updating the facilities that provide them needed services will only cause more problems." He highlighted the significance of granting necessary waivers for Idaho's State Veteran Home projects to ensure that veterans can continue to receive the services they have earned.

Similarly, Senator Risch expressed concern over the delays in updating facilities for veterans, stating, "America’s veterans have waited far too long for updated facilities in Idaho and around the country." He emphasized the need for the VA to be consistent with other agencies in granting waivers and to protect taxpayer dollars while advancing important projects for veterans.

U.S. Representative Russ Fulcher also raised his voice in support of the legislation, urging the VA to fulfill its promise to Idaho veterans. Fulcher stated, "The VA promised Idaho a waiver to build and remodel these homes, and I intend to make them keep their word."

Furthermore, Senator John Boozman emphasized the importance of following through on commitments to improve health and housing accommodations for veterans. He stated, "It’s important for the VA to follow through with this commitment and continue making improvements to health and housing accommodations in a timely, cost-effective manner so we can fulfill the promises made to those who served in our nation’s uniform."

The WAIVER Act is designed to create a legislative fix to the Build America, Buy America Act, require the VA to issue waivers for veterans' home projects approved prior to April 2022, ensure that state veterans' home projects do not lose critical funding, encourage the use of American products, and advocate for responsible use of taxpayer dollars.

The legislation has garnered support from various veterans groups, including the Idaho Division of Veterans Services, Disabled American Veterans, AMVETS, Paralyzed Veterans of America, and the National Association of State Veterans Homes.

Projects in at least 13 states, including Idaho, California, Kansas, Kentucky, and others, will benefit from the WAIVER Act by addressing the lack of BABAA waivers and allowing essential updates to move forward.