East Idaho Times

Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson announced he secured a provision in the Fiscal Year 2025 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill Report. This provision directs the Secretary of the United States Veterans Administration (VA) to consult with affected stakeholders and veterans impacted by the State Veterans Home Construction Grant Program (SHCGP) projects approved prior to the Build America, Buy America Act (BABAA). The Idaho State Veterans Home expansion is currently on hold due to BABAA requirements. Without a waiver, these projects risk losing funding. The three facilities affected in Idaho are located in Boise, Lewiston, and Pocatello. Additionally, projects in 13 states have been impacted by BABAA waiver issues.

"Veterans in Idaho and across our nation rely on veterans’ health and housing facilities to live comfortably and receive the care they have earned after serving our country," said Rep. Simpson. "The language I worked to include in this appropriations report urges the VA to engage with affected Idaho State Veterans Home voices to ensure our veterans are not negatively impacted. I have been proud to advocate for Idaho veterans and these critical facilities, and I will continue to do so until we find a solution."

In addition to securing this provision, Rep. Simpson is a cosponsor of the Waiving Arbitrary and Inconsistent Veteran Home Requirements (WAIVER) Act. The WAIVER Act requires the VA to issue waivers for veterans’ health and housing facilities approved prior to BABAA.

Text of Rep. Simpson’s provision: "The Committee remains concerned about compliance with State Veterans Home Construction Grant Program (SHCGP) projects that are subject to Build America, Buy America Act (BABAA) requirements. The Committee is aware that three USDVA State Veterans Home Construction Grant Program projects in Idaho. The Committee urges the Secretary to ensure it consults with the affected stakeholders to ensure veterans are not negatively affected."

The Fiscal Year 2025 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill passed the House with a vote of 209-197. This funding package will advance to the Senate for further consideration.