Governor Greg Abbott signed three bills in Houston aimed at supporting veterans in Texas. The legislation includes Senate Bill 1814, Senate Bill 1818, and House Bill 114.
“Texas is home to more veterans than any other state,” said Governor Abbott. “We owe every member who serves our country the deepest appreciation that we have. America would not be America, we would not be the freest and strongest, most powerful country in the history of the world if it weren’t for these soldiers willing to stand up and do the things they are doing. Texas will forever honor the service and sacrifice of those who served the United States of America.”
During his remarks, Governor Abbott noted that Texas leads the nation in jobs created by veteran-owned businesses and that this number has more than doubled since 2022. He also mentioned Senate Bill 2308, which he previously signed into law to provide matching funds for research on ibogaine as a potential treatment for neurological and mental health conditions. According to Abbott, ibogaine could help address opioid addiction and behavioral health issues among veterans.
The bill signing took place at the annual Combat Marine Outdoors Gala. Attendees included Acting Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock; Representatives Charles Cunningham, Morgan Meyer, and Dennis Paul; USMC Retired Colonel Alan Orr; USMC Retired Master Gunnery Sergeant Arturo Garcia; and other officials.
Senate Bill 1814 directs the Texas Veterans Commission to create an electronic database with contact information for service members leaving active duty who consent to share their details. This database will help state agencies and veteran organizations connect veterans with resources.
Senate Bill 1818 requires licensing agencies in Texas to issue provisional licenses recognizing out-of-state credentials held by military service members, veterans, and their spouses.
House Bill 114 moves responsibility for several veteran-related programs from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to the Texas Veterans Commission.
