House approves $4.5 million state match for northern Utah veterans nursing home

The Utah House on Feb. 23 approved funding to help build a new veterans nursing home in northern Utah, voting 67–0 to refer the measure to the Senate.

Representative Greg Buxton, sponsor of House Bill 241, told colleagues the bill modifies the veterans code to permit more than one state veterans home and includes a $4,500,000 appropriation from the general fund as a state match to federal funds for a 120‑bed facility. “The total package is about $12,300,000 or $12,800,000,” Buxton said, and added that the Veterans Administration would pay for maintenance and operations if the facility is built.

Supporters said the investment would expand scarce long‑term care capacity for veterans. Representative Hughes described the grant opportunity as a limited window that could yield a $12 million facility with a $4.5 million state investment and urged the body to prioritize the project. Representative Hansen, a cosponsor, noted the growing population of veterans aged 65 and older in Utah and said many returning servicemembers will need such care.

Lawmakers asked technical questions about the project’s fiscal structure during floor debate. Buxton acknowledged a fiscal note and repeated the estimate of total project cost and state contribution. Several members emphasized local economic benefits and gaps in veterans’ long‑term care capacity in parts of the state.

The bill, as passed by the House, will be transmitted to the Senate for further consideration. The sponsor said federal participation would relieve the state of ongoing maintenance and operating costs if the VA accepts the project.

Vote: House Bill 241 passed the House 67–0 and was referred to the Senate.