(Palmer) - Representative Nick Stepovich (R-Fairbanks) was on site today to witness the signing of legislation designed to establish the State Veterans' Home in Palmer as part of the Pioneers' Home System.

SB 301 will give the State of Alaska access to funds from the US Department of Veterans Affairs to establish and maintain veteran's facilities and allow Alaska's veterans to stay in state for long-term health care.

Of this landmark legislation, Representative Stepovich said, "As Chair of the Veteran's and Military Affairs Committee, I worked to ensure that this piece of legislation met the needs of both Alaska's veterans and its pioneers. I am happy with the end result."

He went on to say, "With the signing of SB 301, The Pioneers' Home System will remain strong, and the State will finally have a Veterans' Home."

Governor Frank Murkowski signed SB 301 into law this afternoon at the Pioneers' Home in Palmer.

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