Senator seeks expansion commitment for Connecticut State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown

The U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs convened on April 1, 2025, to discuss several key nominations and pressing issues affecting veterans' cemeteries across the country. A significant focus of the meeting was the urgent need for expansion of veteran cemeteries, particularly in Connecticut and Indiana, where space constraints are becoming critical.

Senator Blumenthal highlighted the situation at the Connecticut State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown, which is nearing capacity. He urged the nominee for the National Cemetery Administration (NCA) to collaborate with local officials to secure additional land for expansion. The nominee expressed a commitment to this mission, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that all veterans have access to burial honors. He acknowledged the challenges posed by local land use issues but pledged to use his influence to advocate for necessary funding and support.

In Indiana, Senator Banks raised concerns about the limited burial options available for veterans, noting that several cemeteries are already closed to new burials. The nominee agreed to explore potential new burial sites in Southern Indiana and expressed a desire to address the backlog of expansion requests nationwide, which currently stands at approximately 60.

The meeting also touched on legislative efforts to protect veterans' rights regarding burial in national cemeteries. Senator Banks introduced the Ensuring Veterans Final Resting Place Act, aimed at preserving burial rights for veterans receiving memorial urns or plaques. The nominee expressed interest in the legislation and a willingness to work with the senator to address this issue.

Additionally, the committee discussed the implications of a recent executive order issued by President Trump, which affects collective bargaining rights for VA employees. The nominee refrained from commenting on the legality of the order, citing ongoing litigation, but reiterated a commitment to prioritizing veterans' needs above all else.

Overall, the meeting underscored the critical need for expansion of veteran cemeteries and the importance of legislative support to ensure that veterans receive the honors they deserve. The nominees expressed a strong commitment to addressing these issues if confirmed, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the VA in serving the veteran community.