Previously Published in The Messenger
By Raheem Soto
A recently passed federal budget includes significant new funding for veteran healthcare, mental health services, and infrastructure, with direct benefits for Long Island veteran facilities and cemeteries, according to Rep. Nick LaLota (R-Rocky Point).
The spending plan allocates billions of dollars to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to expand medical services, strengthen mental health resources, and improve facilities serving veterans.
Key funding provisions include:
- $2.3 billion for VA medical care
- $22 billion for the Toxic Exposures Fund to support full implementation of the PACT Act, expanding benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits and other hazardous substances
- $2.2 billion for veteran mental health programs, including $698 million for suicide prevention efforts and $313 million for the Veterans Crisis Line
- $96 million dedicated to women veterans’ healthcare
The budget also includes infrastructure investments with specific impacts for Long Island:
- $275 million in construction grants, which will benefit veteran care facilities such as the Long Island State Veterans Home in Stony Brook
- $150 million in cemetery grants to support national veterans’ cemeteries, including Calverton National Cemetery
Rep. LaLota, a U.S. Navy veteran who completed three overseas deployments, said the funding reflects a continued commitment to veterans and their families.
“As someone who served, I believe we have a responsibility to ensure veterans receive the care, benefits, and respect they have earned,” LaLota said in a statement. “This budget represents a meaningful step forward for Long Island and veterans across our nation.”
Local veterans’ advocates said the funding could help expand services and modernize facilities that serve thousands of former service members across Suffolk and Nassau counties.
The funding will be distributed through the Department of Veterans Affairs and federal grant programs during the current fiscal year.