Posted: | February 15, 2023 09:07 AM |
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From: | Senator Lisa Baker |
To: | All Senate members |
Subject: | State Veterans Homes Advisory Councils |
Pennsylvanians have a very rich history of answering the call through military service. As a commonwealth, we honor this service and sacrifice in many ways, not the least of which is the operation of our six veterans homes across the state. As you know, these homes prioritize a care setting for those who have served our state and nation through military service. Currently, well over 1,000 residents are receiving care in these homes. Clinical and professional care is supplemented by tens of thousands of hours donated by volunteers who are all committed to providing the very best for those who have selflessly given through their military service. Each veterans home is served by an unpaid, volunteer advisory council. Title 51, Section 704 provides for a 15-member council appointed by the governor, with advice and counsel from the War Veterans Council, the legislature, and one member selected by the residents of each home. Based on my experience serving on the Gino Merli Veterans’ Center Advisory Council, and in speaking with family members of residents, I believe membership should be expanded to include a family member of a current or past resident on each council, as they are uniquely qualified to offer a differing perspective and insight into care at that facility. We have observed this most recently in responding to the challenges and impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic. To this end, I will be re-introducing Senate Bill 1080 from last Session. Previous co-sponsors included Senators Hughes, Kane, Laughlin, Martin, Mastriano, Robinson, Schwank, and J. Ward. Please consider joining this effort to enhance the care and experience at our six veterans homes. Thank you. |
Introduced as SB499