U.S. House extends funding for grants to retrofit vets’ homes after returning from combat

A bill introduced by U.S. Rep. Bruce Braley (D-Waterloo) and named after a Dubuque war veteran has been granted unanimous passage through the U.S. House as part of a larger legislative package.

The Andrew Connolly Veterans’ Housing Act calls for the extension of a grant program that helps injured and disabled military veterans retrofit their homes after they return from combat. Connolly, a Dubuque resident now confined to a wheelchair, testified earlier this month before the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, urging the members to move forward with Braley’s proposed extension. Connolly is an Iowa Army National Guard veteran who returned home in 2007 from Iraq.

Braley said, “Today is a very important day for many young men and women who return home from combat with severe life-altering injuries and find that the fight is far from over. Veterans like Andrew Connolly return to a completely new life — with new, special needs. I’m very proud that today the House unanimously voted to ensure that these brave veterans have the support they need to adjust to their new lives, reach their full potential and feel comfortable in their homes.”

The bill would extend the housing program to the end of 2016. Without reauthorization, the program will expire at the end if this year.