North Carolina is home to more than 700,000 veterans—one of the largest veteran populations in the country. These men and women served our country with honor and sacrifice, and in return, they deserve access to high-quality healthcare, job training, education, and housing support when they return home. But a new report from Carolina Forward highlights growing concerns about how state-level decisions could be putting those services at risk.

According to Carolina Forward, state policymakers have failed to prioritize funding and support for programs that directly impact veterans’ lives. Proposed budget decisions could undercut mental health services, reduce access to veteran-specific job programs, and limit housing assistance that many depend on to stay off the streets. These shifts come at a time when demand for veteran services is increasing—not shrinking.

As Democrats, we believe our duty to veterans doesn’t end when they return home. It means fully funding the resources they’ve earned, standing up for their healthcare, and protecting every opportunity available to help them succeed in civilian life.

Read the full Carolina Foward article here.