Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers visited the Richard I Bong Veterans Historical Center to meet with northland veterans about their concerns on Thursday March 3rd.

Gov. Evers has been touting his executive budget across Wisconsin which include multiple investments aimed at helping veterans.

The round table discussion at the Bong Center touched on local issues like housing and traveling for better access to care.
“I’d have a veteran come into the office and wanted help, and that’s huge right there. That’s half the battle,” said Brian Erickson a retired Navy veteran. “The problem was finding them help, and we would end up sending them to the VA hospital in Minneapolis because that’s the closest thing we’ve got here for them.”

Part of Evers’ executive budget including expanding access to health care, affordable housing and property tax relief for veterans. Governor Evers also spoke on the importance of providing mental health services to veterans.

“The issue around mental health services for veterans is something that people feel confident about,” said Gov. Evers. “That’s something we need to invest more money in because of the issues that people are having with mental health.”

Governor Evers is heading back to Madison next to discuss a new community space for veterans and families there.