Dauphin News

The Senate has unanimously passed legislation sponsored by Sen. Chris Gebhard (R-48) aimed at improving the quality of life for service members, veterans, and their families. The bill creates and funds the Service Member Veterans and Their Families Fund (SMVF Fund).

Senate Bill 1192 allows the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs to lease real estate at Fort Indiantown Gap, using the proceeds to fund the SMVF Fund.

"My bill is a significant step forward in our commitment to the welfare and support of our service members, veterans, and their families. It will help ensure our military community receives the support and resources it needs to thrive," Gebhard said.

The fund would be dedicated to paying for quality-of-life programs, including physical fitness, personal growth, social interaction, and recreational activities for the military community. These programs are designed to support the readiness and well-being of service members, veterans, and their families.

"Currently, there is land around Fort Indiantown Gap that’s outside the base and will never be utilized for training purposes, so allowing the land to be leased to fund this important program makes sense," Gebhard said.

To ensure transparency and accountability in the fund's operations, the bill includes provisions for annual reporting on revenues, expenditures, and activities funded by the SMVF Fund.

Senate Bill 1192 now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.

CONTACT: Alex Gamble