Representative Eli Crane's (R-AZ) bill to establish a 232-acre veterans' center in Young, Gila County, has passed the House of Representatives for a second time, and it may become law this time.
Rep. Crane introduced the legislation in March 2023, his first year in Congress. The legislation transfers ownership of the 232 acres of land from the Federal government to Gila County, allowing for the construction of a veterans' center "providing resources and support to primarily rural veterans and their families."
In his press release, Rep. Crane said, "This veterans center is so crucial for rural veterans in northern Arizona who selflessly served our nation. I'm grateful to see my colleagues in the House recognize the significance of this land transfer."
"This was the first piece of legislation I introduced and is a testament to the significance of northern Arizona's veterans. Anytime Congress can vote on legislation that returns power to the states is a good thing," the Arizona Congressman continued.
Crane also acknowledged House Natural Resources Chair Bruce Westerman (R-AR) in his statement for his work in getting the bill through the House.
Rep. Westerman said, "America's veterans and their families have sacrificed so much to defend our freedom, and Congress must do everything in its power to provide our servicemembers with proper care and opportunities. The commonsense, bipartisan land transfer provided by H.R.837 will do just that by opening up new experiences to veterans in the area for recreation and recovery."
Moreover, the Arkansas Congressman acknowledged Crane's ex-Navy SEAL status, adding, "A veteran himself, Representative Crane has led on these issues this Congress, and I look forward to continuing to work with him to get this bill through the Senate and signed into law."
The bill's passage in the House again comes on the heels of nearby Maricopa County's groundbreaking for its veterans' community in Glendale, providing 50 fully furnished homes for veterans across eight acres. It will also provide additional services, including health and wellness, education, employment, and financial literacy, all personalized for the residents.
