Hershel Woody Williams State Committal Shelter Act of 2024
If enacted, HB 10345 will require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to solicit applications from states for participation in the program, with the goal of selecting three cemeteries for initial improvement. The bill also emphasizes federal support by stipulating that the federal government will cover 50% of the construction or renovation costs, with a maximum of $2 million allocated to each selected cemetery. The overall federal outlay for this initiative will not exceed $5 million, thereby ensuring a substantial investment in the infrastructure important for veteran services across various states.
House Bill 10345, known as the 'Hershel Woody Williams State Committal Shelter Act of 2024', aims to enhance burial services at state-owned veterans' cemeteries by creating a program for the construction and renovation of committal shelters. These shelters are intended to provide protection from inclement weather to the families and friends attending burial services. The program will be administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, who will select participating cemeteries based on specific criteria, including their geographic location and the severity of weather conditions in the area.
Key points of contention may arise regarding the allocation of federal funds versus state or local contributions, as each participating cemetery is expected to match the federal funds with resources from state or local governments, nonprofit organizations, or private entities. Critics may voice concerns about the sufficient prioritization of which cemeteries are chosen based on demonstrated need, particularly in regions experiencing extreme weather, which could warrant careful considerations when selecting the sites eligible for the program.