Governor Brad Little and U.S. Senator Jim Risch welcomed U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Doug Collins to Boise, spotlighting Idaho’s strengthened partnership with the federal government in serving the state’s veterans.
“Idaho is honored to host Secretary Collins and celebrate our support for Idaho veterans,” Governor Little said. “Unlike the previous administration, we now have a true partner at the federal level. Secretary Collins’ presence here demonstrates his commitment to Idaho’s veterans and the importance of federal-state cooperation.”
Secretary Collins echoed the governor’s remarks, emphasizing efforts to streamline and improve veterans’ services nationwide. “Under the leadership of President Trump, we are reforming Veterans services so they’re better, faster, and more convenient. I look forward to continuing our work with Gov. Little and Sen. Risch to improve VA benefits in Idaho and across the nation,” Collins said.
The ceremony was held at the construction site of the new Boise Veterans Home, a long-awaited facility designed to provide permanent, supportive housing for Idaho’s veterans. The project had faced delays due to federal bureaucracy, but a waiver facilitated by Secretary Collins cleared the way for construction to proceed.
Originally, Idaho received federal grants to build and renovate veterans homes, committing significant state resources in good faith. However, under the previous administration, the VA tied the funding to a separate law passed after the grants were awarded, effectively halting progress. Idaho’s projects in Boise, Pocatello, and Lewiston faced delays and cost increases as a result.
To address the issue, Idaho’s congressional delegation introduced the WAIVER Act, mandating that the VA Secretary grant waivers to keep state veterans home projects on track. Shortly after taking office, President Trump and Secretary Collins approved Idaho’s waiver request, cutting through the red tape and allowing construction to move forward.
“The waiver is more than paperwork,” Governor Little said. “It is a symbol of cutting through red tape to honor those who served. Secretary Collins’ leadership in making this possible reflects the type of partnership Idaho needs to serve its veterans effectively.”
Senator Risch, Idaho Division of Veterans Services Director Mark Tschampl, and Secretary Collins also spoke at the ceremony, reaffirming a shared commitment to improving services and care for veterans across the state.