Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon says bond money should be used to pay for a new veterans' home.
Senate Budget Committee chair Kurt Schaefer said Thursday that there is a need for the new nursing home. But the Columbia Republican noted there were several competing priorities for bond funds.
The governor highlighted the proposal during Wednesday's State of the State address.
He says shortening wait times for about 2,000 veterans seeking care should be a priority.
Currently, Missouri has seven veterans' homes with a total of 1,350 beds. The governor also suggested $14.5 million in bond proceeds be used for repairs and renovations at the existing homes.
Both proposals need to be approved by the Legislature.
