Michigan Veterans Affairs Administration allocates $24.8 million for veteran support grants

The Michigan House of Representatives convened on March 20, 2025, to discuss the budget allocations for the Michigan Veterans Affairs Administration (MVAA) and related military and veterans affairs. A significant highlight from the meeting was the MVAA's budget, which comprises approximately 38% of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs' (DMVA) fiscal 2025 budget, totaling $24.8 million.

Of this budget, a substantial portion is earmarked for various veterans grants, including $4.25 million each for county veteran service grants and veteran service organization grants, alongside $2.5 million for veterans trust fund grants. Notably, $2.5 million is allocated as one-time funding aimed at eliminating veteran homelessness, a program that has seen increased support from last year's $2 million allocation.

The meeting also revealed that the MVAA's funding primarily comes from the general fund, which covers most administrative expenses and grant programs. The estimated statewide veteran population stands at around 473,300, with projections indicating a steady demographic presence through 2052.

Additionally, the Michigan Veterans Facility Authority (MVFA), which oversees the state's three veterans homes, is set to receive about $105.2 million, with nearly half of this funding sourced from federal contributions. The authority's budget reflects a focus on maintaining and improving facilities, despite a notable decline in resident populations across the homes.

The meeting concluded with discussions on capital outlay projects, totaling $32.5 million, aimed at maintenance and development for National Guard facilities and veterans homes. The budget also includes three one-time appropriations totaling $19 million, which will support various initiatives, including grounds maintenance at the VFW National Home.

This budget discussion underscores Michigan's commitment to supporting its veterans through targeted funding and programs designed to address their needs, particularly in areas like homelessness and service accessibility.