(Radio Iowa) – Veterans groups are seeking a state tax break for the estimated 47-thousand disabled veterans in Iowa who are homeowners. Darlene McMartin is chair of the Iowa Commission on Veterans Affairs. “We fully support disabled veterans rated 10% through 90% having their property taxes offset by the percentage of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Compensation Rating,” she said. McMartin was among today’s (Wednesday’s) speakers at a ceremony during Veterans Day at the Iowa Capitol. McMartin and others are calling on legislators to expand Veterans Treatment Courts where criminal cases against veterans may be resolved by referrals to substance abuse or mental health treatment.

“We stand unified in our commitment to honor the sacrifices of those who have served our nation,” McMartin said, “to listen to their voices, to actively work toward ensuring they receive the support and the care they deserve.” Governor Kim Reynolds is proposing adding half a million dollars for the state program that provides grants to veterans who are buying a home. The five-thousand dollar grants can be used to cover down payments and closing costs.

Governor Kim Reynolds posed for a photo with veterans at the Capitol on Jan, 22, 2025. (Photo courtesy of governor’s office)

“I’m also asking the legislature to allow the Department of Veterans Affairs to continue using the $500,000 annually from the Iowa Lottery to help pay claims from our most vulnerable veterans for many years to come,” Reynolds said. The grants to low income veterans may cover expenses for things like hearing aids, eye glasses and dental work as well as repairs to homes and vehicles. According to the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs, 178-thousand veterans live in Iowa. That’s about five percent of the state’s population.