The Michigan Legislature's Families and Veterans Committee convened on March 18, 2025, to discuss critical updates regarding veteran care facilities and funding challenges. The meeting highlighted significant achievements in the state's veteran homes, as well as future projects and concerns regarding funding sources.

The session began with a report on the performance of Michigan's veteran homes. All three facilities—Grand Rapids, Chesterfield, and Jacob Eddy—have achieved a five-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), marking them among the top 5% of nursing homes in the state. This accomplishment reflects the improvements made since leadership changes were implemented following previous audits that raised concerns about care quality.

A major focus of the meeting was the upcoming replacement project for the Jacob Eddy home in Marquette, which is set to begin construction in May 2025. The facility, originally a hospital built in the 1950s, will undergo a significant transformation with a budget of $97 million, including $34 million in state match funding. The new design aims to create a more home-like environment for residents, moving away from traditional institutional settings.

Committee members expressed concerns about potential cuts to federal Medicaid funding and their impact on veteran services. Discussions emphasized the reliance on the general fund, which is primarily supported by business, sales, and income taxes. Representatives questioned how the facilities would adapt to possible reductions in funding and what measures would be taken to ensure continued service delivery.

The meeting also addressed staffing levels within the facilities. Currently, the homes are well-staffed, with a mix of registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and certified nursing assistants. The total workforce across the three facilities is approximately 900 employees, including both state workers and contracted staff. Questions arose regarding student loan forgiveness for employees, with assurances that those working in state facilities may qualify under public service loan forgiveness programs.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the successes of Michigan's veteran care facilities while also highlighting the ongoing challenges related to funding and staffing. The committee plans to continue monitoring these issues closely as they work to support the needs of veterans in the state.