Reps. McNally, Lawson-Rowe Announce New Bill to Help & Celebrate Veterans

COLUMBUS – State Reps. Lauren McNally (D-Youngstown) and Meredith Lawson-Rowe (D-Reynoldsburg) today introduced a new piece of legislation focused on using state dollars to support veterans. House Bill (HB) 721 will establish the Veterans Organization Grant Program. Through the Department of Development, local veterans’ organizations can use these grants to either celebrate veterans or help provide veterans with necessities. Additionally, this grant program can provide additional funds to existing county programs that provide funds to military and veterans organizations for Memorial Day expenses.  

“Veterans’ organizations are often the first place our veterans turn for support, connection, and community,” said Rep. McNally. “This legislation recognizes the vital role these local groups play and gives them the resources to meet veterans where they are—whether that means honoring their service, preventing homelessness, or helping them age with dignity. Investing state dollars in trusted, community-based solutions is one of the most effective ways we can truly show up for Ohio’s veterans.” 

“Veterans and our military are the literal backbone of our society,” said Rep. Lawson-Rowe. “This bill shows our commitment to celebrating veterans across the state and acknowledging their selfless sacrifice to this nation.”

Ohio is home to over 600,000 veterans. According to a count done in 2024, Ohio had around 589 veterans experiencing homelessness and 7.4% of veterans live in poverty.  According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Ohio Veterans Suicide Rate is higher than the Ohio and national suicide rate, but it is also higher than the national veteran suicide rate. 

Furthermore, Ohio’s largest group of veterans is those who served in the Vietnam War, this population is aging and will be needing more and more support. The goal of this legislation is to create opportunities for local organizations to provide real help with state dollars. The idea of this bill originated from Rep. McNally and Rep. Lawson-Rowe hearing testimony on HB 297, which increases the amount of money a county can provide to military and veterans organizations for Memorial Day expenses.  

HB 721 awaits committee assignment.