MONTGOMERY – Lieutenant Governor Kay Ivey on Friday announced the restoration of funding for a vital hospital transportation service for disabled veterans. She made the announcement while speaking at the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Department of Alabama and DAV Auxiliary Joint State Convention in Montgomery.
The DAV provides free transportation for veterans to VA medical facilities in the region, but the program’s funding was discontinued in 2009 due to Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs budget cuts.
As Chair of the Military Stability Commission, Lieutenant Governor Kay Ivey worked with General Fund Budget Chairs, Senator Arthur Orr (R-Decatur) and Representative Steve Clouse (R-Ozark) to ensure the continuation of this valuable program.
“As a strong pro-military state, Alabama is committed to taking care of our veterans and in light of recent revelations regarding the VA, it’s important now more than ever to ensure our veterans receive timely and quality care. Free transportation to doctor visits is a small way we can say thank you for their service as well as aid in the effort to create a more military-friendly environment in our state,” said Lieutenant Governor Ivey.
“These funds will have a very positive impact on the quality of life for so many veterans in our state. Approximately 418,000 veterans live in Alabama. Last year, volunteer DAV drivers traveled more 245,483 miles transporting 6,077 veterans to VA facilities. We are extremely grateful for the restoration of these state funds so we can continue our transportation service statewide,” said DAV Auxiliary Senior Vice Commander Rebecca Culver.
The FY15 budget appropriated $120,000 for the program. The funds will cover the cost to manage and operate the transportation service for veterans.
The purpose of the Military Stability Commission is to strengthen Alabama’s military installations, advocate for our military men and women, and prepare for the BRAC process.
