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On Veterans Day, California Honors and Serves Veterans, Investing in Services and Expanding Opportunities
SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 12 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release:
* * *
Nov 11, 2026
On Veterans Day, California honors and serves veterans, investing in services and expanding opportunities
What you need to know: California is home to one of the largest populations of veterans in the country. Since 2019, California has made significant investments in veteran housing, mental healthcare, earned benefits, and long-term care, strengthening services and expanding opportunities for the state's nearly 1.5 million veterans and their families.
-
ANTALYA, TURKIYE- ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 12 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release: * * * Nov 11, 2026 On Veterans Day, California honors and serves veterans, investing in services and expanding opportunities What you need to know: California is home to one of the largest populations of veterans in the country. Since 2019, California has made significant investments in veteran housing, mental healthcare, earned benefits, and long-term care, strengthening services and expanding opportunities for the state's nearly 1.5 million veterans and their families. - ANTALYA, TURKIYE-On Veterans Day, Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted the state's work since 2019 to support California veterans and their families. Working across the whole of government, California has expanded access to affordable housing and mental healthcare, protected earned benefits, modernized long-term care, and expanded education opportunities to support the nearly 1.5 million veterans who call this state home.
* * *
"California has more military bases, more active duty, among the largest National Guard, and one of the largest veteran populations in the nation -- and we're determined to show up for each and every one of them. From expanding housing and healthcare to protecting hard-earned benefits, we've made significant investments to strengthen the systems that serve our veterans and their families. This work is about more than what we've accomplished today. It's about building a California that continues to stand behind its veterans for generations to come. "
- Governor Gavin Newsom
* * *
* Strengthen mental health and health services by expanding access to community-based, veteran-centered healthcare, providing tens of thousands of veterans with no-cost clinical appointments.
* Modernize long-term care by improving information and clinical infrastructure across eight Veteran Homes and building a new 240-bed skilled nursing and memory care facility.
* Expand veteran housing and homeownership by creating thousands of new affordable housing slots and helping hundreds of thousands of veterans purchase homes.
* Connect veterans to earned benefits by providing support and assistance in filing claims, generating hundreds of millions of dollars in new or increased benefits for veterans and their families.
* Protect veterans and their families against predatory companies and targeted federal actions.
* Support military families by expanding access to Paid Family Leave and childcare.
* Expand educational opportunities for veterans and their families by providing tens of thousands of veterans with college credit for their real-world experience.
"Veterans and their families deserve a system of care that recognizes their experiences, understands their needs, and supports them throughout their lives," said California Veterans Affairs Secretary Lindsey Sin. "Under Governor Newsom's leadership, California has made considerable progress in expanding access to housing, health care, earned benefits, and long-term care. These investments have strengthened our ability to meet veterans where they are and connect them with the resources and opportunities they've earned."
More than $10.5 billion has been invested across state government to support servicemembers, veterans, and their families to:
* Strengthen mental health and health services
- Transforming California's mental health systems with Proposition 1's $6.4 billion Behavioral Health Bond, approved by voters in 2024, for housing, services, and treatment for veterans and people experiencing homelessness.
- Establishing the California Veterans Health Initiative in 2022 to expand access to veteran-centered behavioral healthcare through community partners by supporting and building capacity to provide 100,000 free mental health appointments over three years -- regardless of age, period or type of service, discharge status, or disability rating.
= As of October 2026, participating organizations were averaging more than 5,500 no-cost clinical appointments for veterans and their families each quarter.
- Investing $4.7 million to improve veteran access to clinical trials for psychedelic-assisted therapy. More information on the newly opened Request for Applicants can be found here.
* Modernize long-term care
- Eight CalVet-operated Veterans Homes across California serve more than 1,500 residents and provide a range of services to support aging veterans and those with specialized care needs.
- Completed deployment of the CalVet Electronic Health Record system across all eight Veterans Homes, significantly modernizing clinical and administrative infrastructure and strengthening the quality and continuity of care provided to veteran residents.
- Advancing construction of a new 240-bed skilled nursing and memory care facility at the Veterans Home of California-Yountville to replace the current Depression-era building and provide modernized living environments and specialized care for veterans with skilled nursing and memory care needs.
* Expand veteran housing and homeownership
- Financing over 6,500 housing units, including 3,418 designated for veterans, through the Veterans Housing and Homelessness Prevention Program.
- Creating almost 3,000 affordable homes, with over 800 specifically reserved for veterans, through 57 Homekey+ projects. Homekey+ funding, including more than $2.1 billion in Prop 1 funding, is available for local communities to build permanent supportive housing with wrap-around services, with approximately 50% of the funding set aside for projects serving veterans.
- Supporting nearly 450,000 veterans in purchasing homes through the CalVet Home Loan Program.
- Creating the Veterans Support to Self-Reliance pilot program to support veterans aged 55 and older experiencing or at risk of homelessness by pairing permanent supportive housing with nursing care, behavioral health services, medication management, peer support, and other individualized assistance.
- Maintaining lending capacity and supporting future generations of eligible veterans pursuing homeownership in California through Proposition 1-authorized funding for a $1.25 billion bond.
* Support underserved veterans in accessing benefits and closing disparities
- Hosted Tribal Veteran Mental Health Summits in 2025 and 2026 to bring together tribal leaders, Native American veterans, behavioral health providers, and government partners to honor Native American veterans and identify opportunities for collaboration to address the unique behavioral health and suicide-prevention needs of Native American veterans.
- Supported LGBTQ veterans discharged under "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" to update their records and access education, health, burial, and other benefits available to honorably discharged service members
- Established a cross-department outreach structure in 2025, connecting Veterans Services, Women Veterans, Minority Veterans, and Communications to improve coordination and expand opportunities to reach veterans who may not traditionally connect with state services.
- Increased webinars, workshops, and community events for underserved populations by 20%.
- Surveyed thousands of women veterans across all 58 counties to gather insights into challenges related to benefits access, health and behavioral health, housing, economic security, safety, and caregiving.
- Helped more than 800 veterans and family members take steps toward naturalized citizenship, supporting those who served the nation and are pursuing their path to becoming U.S. citizens.
* Connect veterans to earned benefits
- Strengthened the statewide benefits assistance network, which helped file more than 317,000 claims, generating an estimated $736 million in new or increased federal benefits in fiscal year 2025-26.
- Strengthened County Veterans Service Office capacity, providing additional funding in the 2026 Budget Act and signing legislation to ensure more veterans can receive knowledgeable assistance in their communities.
- Served more than 12,000 veterans through the California Transition Assistance Program educates separating service members and veterans about their earned benefits and connects them with local service providers.
- Eligible veterans can add the word "VETERAN" to the front of their driver's license or ID card to signify their military service. This designation provides easier access to veteran benefits and privileges without the need to carry a Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty.
* Protect veterans, their families, and access to their well-deserved benefits
- Supporting LGBTQ servicemembers discharged as a result of President Trump's ban on trans servicemembers from the military by providing critical housing, employment, and transition-to-civilian-life support.
- Strengthening reproductive care for veterans after the Trump administration imposed one of the most severe abortion bans in the country through the Veterans Affairs system. California is ensuring that veterans have greater access to the full spectrum of health benefits they are owed, including abortion care.
- Cracking down on predatory financial actors and fraudulent claims assistance companies targeting veterans and service members navigating the federal benefits system.
- Helped veterans and their families replace military and federal records, restore access to prescriptions and benefits, and connect with county and emergency resources during wildfires and other disasters. During the Los Angeles wildfire response, CalVet's regional network assisted more than 1,000 veterans and family members.
* Support military families
- Implementing the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood Plus program to expand access to civilian childcare for military families.
- Ensuring military families have access to Paid Family Leave by expanding the definition of "covered active duty" to include stateside missions, extended training, or activation as part of the National Guard or Reserve.
- Reducing the burden on military-connected pupils and their families, the state publicly recognizes and designates specific public schools as California Purple Star schools.
- Creating a new state income tax break for military retirees and their surviving spouses, allowing them to exclude up to $20,000 of their income each year from state income taxes.
- Improving property-tax relief processes for disabled veterans and surviving spouses.
* Expand educational opportunities for veterans and their families
- Expanding Credit for Prior Learning to allow veterans and working Californians to turn real-world experience into college credit. This statewide push is expected to benefit 250,000 people -- including 30,000 veterans -- and generate billions in long-term economic gains by speeding up time to degree and cutting costs.
- Extending eligibility for the Cal Grant and Middle Class Scholarship Program to dependents of a member of the United States Armed Forces who maintains California as their state of legal residence.
- Waiving tuition fees at California public colleges and universities for children and spouses of qualified veterans through the CalVet College Tuition Fee Waiver Program.
- Ensuring students relying on the CalVet College Fee Waiver or the federal GI Bill can complete their degrees efficiently and fully use these benefits by granting priority enrollment at California Community Colleges, California State Universities, or the University of California.
- Extending eligibility for in-state tuition for dependents returning to a public higher education institution to finish their degree, even if the Armed Forces member has been transferred out of state or has retired from active duty.
More information about support services for veterans is available at calvet.ca.gov.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/11/11/on-veterans-day-california-honors-and-serves-veterans-investing-in-services-and-expanding-opportunities/
* * *
Nov 11, 2026
On Veterans Day, California honors and serves veterans, investing in services and expanding opportunities
What you need to know: California is home to one of the largest populations of veterans in the country. Since 2019, California has made significant investments in veteran housing, mental healthcare, earned benefits, and long-term care, strengthening services and expanding opportunities for the state's nearly 1.5 million veterans and their families.
-
ANTALYA, TURKIYE- ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 12 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release: * * * Nov 11, 2026 On Veterans Day, California honors and serves veterans, investing in services and expanding opportunities What you need to know: California is home to one of the largest populations of veterans in the country. Since 2019, California has made significant investments in veteran housing, mental healthcare, earned benefits, and long-term care, strengthening services and expanding opportunities for the state's nearly 1.5 million veterans and their families. - ANTALYA, TURKIYE-On Veterans Day, Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted the state's work since 2019 to support California veterans and their families. Working across the whole of government, California has expanded access to affordable housing and mental healthcare, protected earned benefits, modernized long-term care, and expanded education opportunities to support the nearly 1.5 million veterans who call this state home.
* * *
"California has more military bases, more active duty, among the largest National Guard, and one of the largest veteran populations in the nation -- and we're determined to show up for each and every one of them. From expanding housing and healthcare to protecting hard-earned benefits, we've made significant investments to strengthen the systems that serve our veterans and their families. This work is about more than what we've accomplished today. It's about building a California that continues to stand behind its veterans for generations to come. "
- Governor Gavin Newsom
* * *
* Strengthen mental health and health services by expanding access to community-based, veteran-centered healthcare, providing tens of thousands of veterans with no-cost clinical appointments.
* Modernize long-term care by improving information and clinical infrastructure across eight Veteran Homes and building a new 240-bed skilled nursing and memory care facility.
* Expand veteran housing and homeownership by creating thousands of new affordable housing slots and helping hundreds of thousands of veterans purchase homes.
* Connect veterans to earned benefits by providing support and assistance in filing claims, generating hundreds of millions of dollars in new or increased benefits for veterans and their families.
* Protect veterans and their families against predatory companies and targeted federal actions.
* Support military families by expanding access to Paid Family Leave and childcare.
* Expand educational opportunities for veterans and their families by providing tens of thousands of veterans with college credit for their real-world experience.
"Veterans and their families deserve a system of care that recognizes their experiences, understands their needs, and supports them throughout their lives," said California Veterans Affairs Secretary Lindsey Sin. "Under Governor Newsom's leadership, California has made considerable progress in expanding access to housing, health care, earned benefits, and long-term care. These investments have strengthened our ability to meet veterans where they are and connect them with the resources and opportunities they've earned."
More than $10.5 billion has been invested across state government to support servicemembers, veterans, and their families to:
* Strengthen mental health and health services
- Transforming California's mental health systems with Proposition 1's $6.4 billion Behavioral Health Bond, approved by voters in 2024, for housing, services, and treatment for veterans and people experiencing homelessness.
- Establishing the California Veterans Health Initiative in 2022 to expand access to veteran-centered behavioral healthcare through community partners by supporting and building capacity to provide 100,000 free mental health appointments over three years -- regardless of age, period or type of service, discharge status, or disability rating.
= As of October 2026, participating organizations were averaging more than 5,500 no-cost clinical appointments for veterans and their families each quarter.
- Investing $4.7 million to improve veteran access to clinical trials for psychedelic-assisted therapy. More information on the newly opened Request for Applicants can be found here.
* Modernize long-term care
- Eight CalVet-operated Veterans Homes across California serve more than 1,500 residents and provide a range of services to support aging veterans and those with specialized care needs.
- Completed deployment of the CalVet Electronic Health Record system across all eight Veterans Homes, significantly modernizing clinical and administrative infrastructure and strengthening the quality and continuity of care provided to veteran residents.
- Advancing construction of a new 240-bed skilled nursing and memory care facility at the Veterans Home of California-Yountville to replace the current Depression-era building and provide modernized living environments and specialized care for veterans with skilled nursing and memory care needs.
* Expand veteran housing and homeownership
- Financing over 6,500 housing units, including 3,418 designated for veterans, through the Veterans Housing and Homelessness Prevention Program.
- Creating almost 3,000 affordable homes, with over 800 specifically reserved for veterans, through 57 Homekey+ projects. Homekey+ funding, including more than $2.1 billion in Prop 1 funding, is available for local communities to build permanent supportive housing with wrap-around services, with approximately 50% of the funding set aside for projects serving veterans.
- Supporting nearly 450,000 veterans in purchasing homes through the CalVet Home Loan Program.
- Creating the Veterans Support to Self-Reliance pilot program to support veterans aged 55 and older experiencing or at risk of homelessness by pairing permanent supportive housing with nursing care, behavioral health services, medication management, peer support, and other individualized assistance.
- Maintaining lending capacity and supporting future generations of eligible veterans pursuing homeownership in California through Proposition 1-authorized funding for a $1.25 billion bond.
* Support underserved veterans in accessing benefits and closing disparities
- Hosted Tribal Veteran Mental Health Summits in 2025 and 2026 to bring together tribal leaders, Native American veterans, behavioral health providers, and government partners to honor Native American veterans and identify opportunities for collaboration to address the unique behavioral health and suicide-prevention needs of Native American veterans.
- Supported LGBTQ veterans discharged under "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" to update their records and access education, health, burial, and other benefits available to honorably discharged service members
- Established a cross-department outreach structure in 2025, connecting Veterans Services, Women Veterans, Minority Veterans, and Communications to improve coordination and expand opportunities to reach veterans who may not traditionally connect with state services.
- Increased webinars, workshops, and community events for underserved populations by 20%.
- Surveyed thousands of women veterans across all 58 counties to gather insights into challenges related to benefits access, health and behavioral health, housing, economic security, safety, and caregiving.
- Helped more than 800 veterans and family members take steps toward naturalized citizenship, supporting those who served the nation and are pursuing their path to becoming U.S. citizens.
* Connect veterans to earned benefits
- Strengthened the statewide benefits assistance network, which helped file more than 317,000 claims, generating an estimated $736 million in new or increased federal benefits in fiscal year 2025-26.
- Strengthened County Veterans Service Office capacity, providing additional funding in the 2026 Budget Act and signing legislation to ensure more veterans can receive knowledgeable assistance in their communities.
- Served more than 12,000 veterans through the California Transition Assistance Program educates separating service members and veterans about their earned benefits and connects them with local service providers.
- Eligible veterans can add the word "VETERAN" to the front of their driver's license or ID card to signify their military service. This designation provides easier access to veteran benefits and privileges without the need to carry a Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty.
* Protect veterans, their families, and access to their well-deserved benefits
- Supporting LGBTQ servicemembers discharged as a result of President Trump's ban on trans servicemembers from the military by providing critical housing, employment, and transition-to-civilian-life support.
- Strengthening reproductive care for veterans after the Trump administration imposed one of the most severe abortion bans in the country through the Veterans Affairs system. California is ensuring that veterans have greater access to the full spectrum of health benefits they are owed, including abortion care.
- Cracking down on predatory financial actors and fraudulent claims assistance companies targeting veterans and service members navigating the federal benefits system.
- Helped veterans and their families replace military and federal records, restore access to prescriptions and benefits, and connect with county and emergency resources during wildfires and other disasters. During the Los Angeles wildfire response, CalVet's regional network assisted more than 1,000 veterans and family members.
* Support military families
- Implementing the Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood Plus program to expand access to civilian childcare for military families.
- Ensuring military families have access to Paid Family Leave by expanding the definition of "covered active duty" to include stateside missions, extended training, or activation as part of the National Guard or Reserve.
- Reducing the burden on military-connected pupils and their families, the state publicly recognizes and designates specific public schools as California Purple Star schools.
- Creating a new state income tax break for military retirees and their surviving spouses, allowing them to exclude up to $20,000 of their income each year from state income taxes.
- Improving property-tax relief processes for disabled veterans and surviving spouses.
* Expand educational opportunities for veterans and their families
- Expanding Credit for Prior Learning to allow veterans and working Californians to turn real-world experience into college credit. This statewide push is expected to benefit 250,000 people -- including 30,000 veterans -- and generate billions in long-term economic gains by speeding up time to degree and cutting costs.
- Extending eligibility for the Cal Grant and Middle Class Scholarship Program to dependents of a member of the United States Armed Forces who maintains California as their state of legal residence.
- Waiving tuition fees at California public colleges and universities for children and spouses of qualified veterans through the CalVet College Tuition Fee Waiver Program.
- Ensuring students relying on the CalVet College Fee Waiver or the federal GI Bill can complete their degrees efficiently and fully use these benefits by granting priority enrollment at California Community Colleges, California State Universities, or the University of California.
- Extending eligibility for in-state tuition for dependents returning to a public higher education institution to finish their degree, even if the Armed Forces member has been transferred out of state or has retired from active duty.
More information about support services for veterans is available at calvet.ca.gov.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/11/11/on-veterans-day-california-honors-and-serves-veterans-investing-in-services-and-expanding-opportunities/
Governor Newsom is Delivering for Veterans - With More Opportunities, Education, and Support $20,000 Income Tax Cut
SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 12 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release:
* * *
Nov 11, 2026
Governor Newsom is delivering for veterans -- with more opportunities, education, and support $20,000 income tax cut
What you need to know: Under the Newsom administration, California is delivering tax cuts, expanded access to higher education, and opportunities for veterans to grow their families, careers, and businesses.
-
SACRAMENTO - Beyond Governor Gavin Newsom's investment in veterans' well-being and stability this Veterans Day, he reflects on the service and sacrifice ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 12 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release: * * * Nov 11, 2026 Governor Newsom is delivering for veterans -- with more opportunities, education, and support $20,000 income tax cut What you need to know: Under the Newsom administration, California is delivering tax cuts, expanded access to higher education, and opportunities for veterans to grow their families, careers, and businesses. - SACRAMENTO - Beyond Governor Gavin Newsom's investment in veterans' well-being and stability this Veterans Day, he reflects on the service and sacrificeof California's veterans and our responsibility to ensure that service is met with real opportunity when they come home. Under his leadership, California has lowered costs, expanded benefits, strengthened protections, and opened more pathways to education, careers, and economic security for veterans and military families.
Since taking office, Governor Newsom has worked to make California a place where veterans can save more, build on the skills they earned through service, and create a strong future for themselves and their families. California's commitment is simple: honor service not just with words, but with opportunity, security, and support for those who have sacrificed for our country.
California's veterans answered the call to serve, and we have a responsibility to stand with them when they come home. That means protecting the benefits they earned, lowering costs, and opening doors to education, careers, and opportunity.
Governor Gavin Newsom
Saving money for those who served
Governor Newsom has delivered cost savings for veterans during his administration by:
* Giving veterans receiving military retirement pay and families receiving payments from the federal Survivor Benefit Plan a $20,000 tax break from state income taxes.
* Expanding property-tax relief for qualifying disabled veterans and surviving spouses from 2027 through 2031, including larger exemptions for eligible low-income households.
* Cutting local business-license fees for honorably discharged California veterans operating service businesses as sole proprietors.
* Cracking down on fraudulent practices targeting veterans and service members navigating the federal benefits system, strengthening California's nation-leading protections for those who served.
* Ensuring military families have access to Paid Family Leave by clarifying the definition of "covered active duty" to include stateside missions, extended training, or activation as part of the National Guard or Reserve.
Helping veterans build careers in California
California is home to more than 30 federal military installations, and the U.S. Department of Defense directly employs more than 236,000 people statewide. California is supporting this defense economy while expanding training and career opportunities for veterans.
* Investing in career training. Governor Newsom's California Jobs First designated space, defense, and satellite industries as statewide economic priorities. Through Jobs First Catalyst funding, the Kern County Coalition awarded $276,000 to the Veteran and Workforce Talent Accelerator Initiative. It will expand training for transitioning service members, student veterans, and unemployed veterans in Kern County and strengthen employer partnerships in aerospace, defense, energy, and manufacturing.
* Expanding access to apprenticeships. The Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS) awarded more than $51 million through two rounds of Equal Representation in Construction Apprenticeship (ERiCA) grants, supporting 44 program awards for underserved populations, including veterans. As of September 30, 2026, California had 4,320 active veteran apprentices. Since 2019, 14,794 veterans have participated in DAS-registered apprenticeships.
* Informing economic investment. The California Military Economic Impact Study assessed the defense economy's $66 billion annual contribution. Its findings continue to guide statewide workforce, infrastructure, and investment strategies.
* Building on military experience. Military service can prepare veterans for a range of civilian careers. According to 2025 workforce data, California veterans work in management and professional roles, financial services and business, and service and sales industries.
* Supporting veteran-owned small businesses. Since the beginning of 2026, the California Office of the Small Business Advocate's (CalOSBA) Technical Assistance Program has supported 1,688 veteran-owned small businesses.
Supporting veterans and their families pursuing higher education
Through Governor Newsom's Master Plan for Career Education, California is making it easier for veterans, service members, and other Californians to turn skills they already have into college credit. A $35 million statewide initiative is expanding Credit for Prior Learning so military training, service corps experience, and other prior learning can count toward a degree or credential.
The initiative set a goal of serving 30,000 veterans. California has already surpassed that milestone, with more than 31,000 veterans served through Credit for Prior Learning, helping Californians translate their skills and knowledge into real progress toward a degree or career.
During his administration, Governor Newsom has helped veterans and their families pursue higher education after service by:
* Waiving tuition fees at California public colleges and universities for children and spouses of qualified veterans, including those who are disabled, deceased, or 100% service-disabled.
* Expanding access to education by granting priority enrollment at California Community Colleges, California State Universities, or the University of California to students relying on the CalVet College Fee Waiver or the federal GI Bill to ensure they can complete their degrees efficiently and fully utilize these benefits.
* Extending eligibility for in-state tuition for dependents returning to a public higher education institution to finish their degree, even if the Armed Forces member has been transferred out of state or has retired from active duty.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/11/11/governor-newsom-is-delivering-for-veterans-with-more-opportunities-education-and-support/
* * *
Nov 11, 2026
Governor Newsom is delivering for veterans -- with more opportunities, education, and support $20,000 income tax cut
What you need to know: Under the Newsom administration, California is delivering tax cuts, expanded access to higher education, and opportunities for veterans to grow their families, careers, and businesses.
-
SACRAMENTO - Beyond Governor Gavin Newsom's investment in veterans' well-being and stability this Veterans Day, he reflects on the service and sacrifice ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 12 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release: * * * Nov 11, 2026 Governor Newsom is delivering for veterans -- with more opportunities, education, and support $20,000 income tax cut What you need to know: Under the Newsom administration, California is delivering tax cuts, expanded access to higher education, and opportunities for veterans to grow their families, careers, and businesses. - SACRAMENTO - Beyond Governor Gavin Newsom's investment in veterans' well-being and stability this Veterans Day, he reflects on the service and sacrificeof California's veterans and our responsibility to ensure that service is met with real opportunity when they come home. Under his leadership, California has lowered costs, expanded benefits, strengthened protections, and opened more pathways to education, careers, and economic security for veterans and military families.
Since taking office, Governor Newsom has worked to make California a place where veterans can save more, build on the skills they earned through service, and create a strong future for themselves and their families. California's commitment is simple: honor service not just with words, but with opportunity, security, and support for those who have sacrificed for our country.
California's veterans answered the call to serve, and we have a responsibility to stand with them when they come home. That means protecting the benefits they earned, lowering costs, and opening doors to education, careers, and opportunity.
Governor Gavin Newsom
Saving money for those who served
Governor Newsom has delivered cost savings for veterans during his administration by:
* Giving veterans receiving military retirement pay and families receiving payments from the federal Survivor Benefit Plan a $20,000 tax break from state income taxes.
* Expanding property-tax relief for qualifying disabled veterans and surviving spouses from 2027 through 2031, including larger exemptions for eligible low-income households.
* Cutting local business-license fees for honorably discharged California veterans operating service businesses as sole proprietors.
* Cracking down on fraudulent practices targeting veterans and service members navigating the federal benefits system, strengthening California's nation-leading protections for those who served.
* Ensuring military families have access to Paid Family Leave by clarifying the definition of "covered active duty" to include stateside missions, extended training, or activation as part of the National Guard or Reserve.
Helping veterans build careers in California
California is home to more than 30 federal military installations, and the U.S. Department of Defense directly employs more than 236,000 people statewide. California is supporting this defense economy while expanding training and career opportunities for veterans.
* Investing in career training. Governor Newsom's California Jobs First designated space, defense, and satellite industries as statewide economic priorities. Through Jobs First Catalyst funding, the Kern County Coalition awarded $276,000 to the Veteran and Workforce Talent Accelerator Initiative. It will expand training for transitioning service members, student veterans, and unemployed veterans in Kern County and strengthen employer partnerships in aerospace, defense, energy, and manufacturing.
* Expanding access to apprenticeships. The Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS) awarded more than $51 million through two rounds of Equal Representation in Construction Apprenticeship (ERiCA) grants, supporting 44 program awards for underserved populations, including veterans. As of September 30, 2026, California had 4,320 active veteran apprentices. Since 2019, 14,794 veterans have participated in DAS-registered apprenticeships.
* Informing economic investment. The California Military Economic Impact Study assessed the defense economy's $66 billion annual contribution. Its findings continue to guide statewide workforce, infrastructure, and investment strategies.
* Building on military experience. Military service can prepare veterans for a range of civilian careers. According to 2025 workforce data, California veterans work in management and professional roles, financial services and business, and service and sales industries.
* Supporting veteran-owned small businesses. Since the beginning of 2026, the California Office of the Small Business Advocate's (CalOSBA) Technical Assistance Program has supported 1,688 veteran-owned small businesses.
Supporting veterans and their families pursuing higher education
Through Governor Newsom's Master Plan for Career Education, California is making it easier for veterans, service members, and other Californians to turn skills they already have into college credit. A $35 million statewide initiative is expanding Credit for Prior Learning so military training, service corps experience, and other prior learning can count toward a degree or credential.
The initiative set a goal of serving 30,000 veterans. California has already surpassed that milestone, with more than 31,000 veterans served through Credit for Prior Learning, helping Californians translate their skills and knowledge into real progress toward a degree or career.
During his administration, Governor Newsom has helped veterans and their families pursue higher education after service by:
* Waiving tuition fees at California public colleges and universities for children and spouses of qualified veterans, including those who are disabled, deceased, or 100% service-disabled.
* Expanding access to education by granting priority enrollment at California Community Colleges, California State Universities, or the University of California to students relying on the CalVet College Fee Waiver or the federal GI Bill to ensure they can complete their degrees efficiently and fully utilize these benefits.
* Extending eligibility for in-state tuition for dependents returning to a public higher education institution to finish their degree, even if the Armed Forces member has been transferred out of state or has retired from active duty.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/11/11/governor-newsom-is-delivering-for-veterans-with-more-opportunities-education-and-support/
Governor Newsom Announces Nearly $1.3 Billion for Cleaner Transportation, Stronger Transit Connections
SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 12 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release:
* * *
Nov 10, 2026
Governor Newsom announces nearly $1.3 billion for cleaner transportation, stronger transit connections
While Trump pushes transit cuts, California is keeping trains running, putting cleaner buses on the road, and building better connections to jobs and schools
What you need to know: As Governor Newsom and the California delegation travel to Turkiye for COP31, California is putting nearly $1.3 billion to work protecting essential train service, expanding clean transportation ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 12 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release: * * * Nov 10, 2026 Governor Newsom announces nearly $1.3 billion for cleaner transportation, stronger transit connections While Trump pushes transit cuts, California is keeping trains running, putting cleaner buses on the road, and building better connections to jobs and schools What you need to know: As Governor Newsom and the California delegation travel to Turkiye for COP31, California is putting nearly $1.3 billion to work protecting essential train service, expanding clean transportationand better connecting communities statewide. The investments will help prevent major Metrolink service cuts, move Caltrain's downtown San Francisco extension forward and bring more than 75 zero-emission buses and smaller transit vehicles to California communities.
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SACRAMENTO - As Governor Gavin Newsom and the California delegation take the Golden State's clean transportation leadership to Turkiye for the United Nations climate conference, COP31, the Governor today announced nearly $1.3 billion to protect passenger rail service, expand clean transportation and make everyday trips easier for Californians.
The 28 awards are through the California State Transportation Agency's Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP) and State Rail Assistance program and help prevent major Metrolink service cuts in Southern California, advance Caltrain's extension into downtown San Francisco and bring more than 75 zero-emission buses and smaller transit vehicles to communities across the state. The investments connect California's climate goals with everyday needs: dependable transportation to work, school, and other destinations.
* * *
"California has shown that investing in cleaner transportation can improve people's everyday lives. These investments build on that progress, funding cleaner buses, better rail connections, and the train service families count on to get to work and school. As we take California's experience to the world stage, we're continuing to build a cleaner, more connected state."
- Governor Gavin Newsom
* * *
"California is turning big transit ideas into everyday trips," said California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin. "From Caltrain's extension into downtown San Francisco to clean buses in the Central Valley and tap-and-pay fares across Metrolink, these awards make transit cleaner, faster and easier for riders across the state."
Connecting more Californians to jobs, schools, and communities
Under Governor Newsom's leadership, California is investing in cleaner transportation that connects more people to jobs, schools and their communities. These awards build on that work with new buses, stronger rail connections, and improvements that make transit easier to use
In the Bay Area, a $750 million investment will advance The Portal, a major project that will extend Caltrain approximately two miles from Fourth and King streets into downtown San Francisco.
Led by the Transbay Joint Powers Authority, the project will connect Caltrain to the Salesforce Transit Center, creating a major regional transit connection and establishing the future San Francisco terminus for California high-speed rail. The state's investment builds on local and regional funding commitments as the project advances through the Federal Transit Administration's Capital Investment Grant program.
Other projects expanding transportation connections across California include:
* Central Valley: Modernizing transit facilities and introducing battery-electric buses in Kings County to connect communities to future high-speed rail service, while expanding zero-emission microtransit options in Merced County.
* Sacramento Region: Adding 21 hydrogen fuel cell electric buses to support increased service between Sacramento and Davis.
* Central Coast: Advancing rail infrastructure improvements needed to bring passenger rail service to Salinas and supporting transit facility improvements in Santa Cruz County.
* Bay Area: Adding a second main track through Fremont and Newark to improve Altamont Corridor Express (ACE) operations and advancing Caltrain's battery-electric train pilot between San Jose and Gilroy.
* Southern California: Expanding local transit options in Ventura, Riverside and Los Angeles counties, including new fixed-route service, microtransit and zero-emission buses.
Additional projects will improve transit access at BART's Ashby Station in Berkeley, expand e-bike share in Truckee, and improve pedestrian safety near Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) tracks.
Delivering cleaner, more convenient transportation
Governor Newsom's investment in cleaner transportation, backed by the Legislature, will help put more than 75 new zero-emission buses and microtransit vehicles will help agencies transition to cleaner fleets while improving service for riders.
In Santa Monica, new battery-electric buses will complete the transition of the city's Big Blue Bus fleet to all-electric vehicles. Additional zero-emission buses will serve communities in Sacramento, Kings County, Marin County and Montebello, while Merced County will expand cleaner microtransit options.
The awards will also make transit more convenient, including introducing tap-to-pay fares using a bank card or phone across Metrolink, improving access at Downtown Burbank Station and modernizing California's statewide bi-level intercity passenger rail fleet.
Other projects include new track and safety infrastructure for Caltrain, pedestrian safety improvements at SMART's Ward neighborhood rail crossing, and planning to improve service along the Los Angeles-San Diego-San Luis Obispo rail corridor ahead of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Keeping Californians moving
Governor Newsom secured a $4.64 billion transit recovery package with the Legislature to help keep buses and trains running and fund transit improvements across California. Today's awards build on that commitment, helping keep essential trains running while requiring work toward long-term financial stability.
In Southern California, a $20 million investment will help Metrolink avoid proposed service reductions of 29% on weekdays and 40% on weekends compared with its 2025 schedule. The funding will help maintain service for workers, students and families through summer 2028, as the region prepares to host the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The investment comes with an expectation that Metrolink and its member agencies will work with the state to identify long-term solutions to the system's funding challenges.
Additional investments will help maintain existing COASTER commuter rail service in San Diego County and improve reliability along some of California's busiest passenger rail corridors.
Projects include replacing aging railroad signals and infrastructure near Davis Station to reduce disruptions along the Capitol Corridor, constructing new rail infrastructure in Santa Clara County to improve passenger and freight rail operations, and upgrading signals and communications along the SPRINTER rail line between Oceanside and Escondido.
"We are grateful to Governor Newsom, Secretary Omishakin and the State of California for recognizing the essential role Metrolink plays in connecting Southern California's communities," said Metrolink CEO Darren Kettle. "This critical investment helps us maintain the service our riders depend on to get to work, attend school and access opportunities throughout the region. It also provides much-needed stability as we work with the state and our member agencies to build a more sustainable future for regional rail. Reliable, accessible transportation is vital to our region's economic health and quality of life, and this funding helps ensure we can continue delivering on that commitment."
Putting California's climate investments to work
Governor Newsom is putting California's climate investments to work building cleaner transportation and stronger transit connections. Backed by the Legislature, these awards will help preserve transportation services that Californians count on today while funding improvements for the future. Nearly $1.3 billion will support 19 projects through the eighth cycle of TIRCP, which funds improvements to California's intercity, commuter and urban rail systems, as well as bus and ferry transit systems.
Since 2015, TIRCP has awarded more than $12.7 billion to 171 projects statewide, supporting improvements that expand transit service, increase ridership, improve safety and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
An additional $66.5 million in State Rail Assistance funding will support eight projects that protect existing passenger rail service and improve rail safety, reliability, and operations.
Both programs receive funding through Senate Bill 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017. TIRCP also receives funding through California's Cap-and-Invest program and is part of California Climate Investments, which puts Cap-and-Invest dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy and improving public health and the environment.
Together, these investments help preserve the transportation Californians rely on today while building cleaner, more connected communities for the future.
California's transportation leadership
Under Governor Newsom, California is investing in cleaner transportation, stronger transit connections, and infrastructure that helps people and goods move across the state.
* Transportation and innovation. The California State Transportation Agency oversees more than $12 billion in annual transportation funding across eight state agencies -- delivering roads, bridges, rail, transit, and zero-emission infrastructure to every corner of the state. The California Transportation Commission allocates an additional $10 billion annually for transportation projects. Caltrans manages more than 50,000 miles of highway, and recently launched Traffic Mobility Insights, an AI-powered platform that unifies seven statewide traffic systems, refreshes highway bottleneck detection every 25 minutes, and can generate emergency evacuation routes in minutes during wildfires or earthquakes.
* High-speed rail. California's high-speed rail project is advancing daily, with major segments from Merced to Bakersfield under design and construction. More than 90 miles of guideway are complete, along with 70 fully completed major structures and 22 more structures underway across Madera, Fresno, Kings, and Tulare counties. In October, the California High-Speed Rail Authority reached two major milestones: approving a contract for high-speed trains and completing the final environmental review for the San Francisco-Los Angeles/Anaheim system.
* Cleaner cars, trucks, and school buses. Under the Governor's leadership, Californians have purchased almost 2.8 million zero-emission vehicles, and nearly 12,000 have switched to electric cars with incentives from California's MyFirstEV rebate program. The state's clean vehicle manufacturing and infrastructure industries have also announced more than 25,000 jobs. In 2025, San Bernardino County made history by welcoming the first hydrogen-powered passenger train into revenue service in North America. In May, Governor Newsom launched a $1 billion rebate program for electric medium- and heavy-duty trucks, and in April 2025, announced $500 million for 1,000 clean school buses statewide. Demand for zero-emission bus and truck incentives has more than doubled year-over-year.
Governor Newsom's Build More, Faster - For All infrastructure agenda has driven historic investments in transportation that will benefit all Californians for decades to come. More than 29,000 California infrastructure projects are tracked at build.ca.gov.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/11/10/governor-newsom-announces-nearly-1-3-billion-for-cleaner-transportation-stronger-transit-connections/
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Nov 10, 2026
Governor Newsom announces nearly $1.3 billion for cleaner transportation, stronger transit connections
While Trump pushes transit cuts, California is keeping trains running, putting cleaner buses on the road, and building better connections to jobs and schools
What you need to know: As Governor Newsom and the California delegation travel to Turkiye for COP31, California is putting nearly $1.3 billion to work protecting essential train service, expanding clean transportation ... Show Full Article SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 12 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release: * * * Nov 10, 2026 Governor Newsom announces nearly $1.3 billion for cleaner transportation, stronger transit connections While Trump pushes transit cuts, California is keeping trains running, putting cleaner buses on the road, and building better connections to jobs and schools What you need to know: As Governor Newsom and the California delegation travel to Turkiye for COP31, California is putting nearly $1.3 billion to work protecting essential train service, expanding clean transportationand better connecting communities statewide. The investments will help prevent major Metrolink service cuts, move Caltrain's downtown San Francisco extension forward and bring more than 75 zero-emission buses and smaller transit vehicles to California communities.
-
SACRAMENTO - As Governor Gavin Newsom and the California delegation take the Golden State's clean transportation leadership to Turkiye for the United Nations climate conference, COP31, the Governor today announced nearly $1.3 billion to protect passenger rail service, expand clean transportation and make everyday trips easier for Californians.
The 28 awards are through the California State Transportation Agency's Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP) and State Rail Assistance program and help prevent major Metrolink service cuts in Southern California, advance Caltrain's extension into downtown San Francisco and bring more than 75 zero-emission buses and smaller transit vehicles to communities across the state. The investments connect California's climate goals with everyday needs: dependable transportation to work, school, and other destinations.
* * *
"California has shown that investing in cleaner transportation can improve people's everyday lives. These investments build on that progress, funding cleaner buses, better rail connections, and the train service families count on to get to work and school. As we take California's experience to the world stage, we're continuing to build a cleaner, more connected state."
- Governor Gavin Newsom
* * *
"California is turning big transit ideas into everyday trips," said California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin. "From Caltrain's extension into downtown San Francisco to clean buses in the Central Valley and tap-and-pay fares across Metrolink, these awards make transit cleaner, faster and easier for riders across the state."
Connecting more Californians to jobs, schools, and communities
Under Governor Newsom's leadership, California is investing in cleaner transportation that connects more people to jobs, schools and their communities. These awards build on that work with new buses, stronger rail connections, and improvements that make transit easier to use
In the Bay Area, a $750 million investment will advance The Portal, a major project that will extend Caltrain approximately two miles from Fourth and King streets into downtown San Francisco.
Led by the Transbay Joint Powers Authority, the project will connect Caltrain to the Salesforce Transit Center, creating a major regional transit connection and establishing the future San Francisco terminus for California high-speed rail. The state's investment builds on local and regional funding commitments as the project advances through the Federal Transit Administration's Capital Investment Grant program.
Other projects expanding transportation connections across California include:
* Central Valley: Modernizing transit facilities and introducing battery-electric buses in Kings County to connect communities to future high-speed rail service, while expanding zero-emission microtransit options in Merced County.
* Sacramento Region: Adding 21 hydrogen fuel cell electric buses to support increased service between Sacramento and Davis.
* Central Coast: Advancing rail infrastructure improvements needed to bring passenger rail service to Salinas and supporting transit facility improvements in Santa Cruz County.
* Bay Area: Adding a second main track through Fremont and Newark to improve Altamont Corridor Express (ACE) operations and advancing Caltrain's battery-electric train pilot between San Jose and Gilroy.
* Southern California: Expanding local transit options in Ventura, Riverside and Los Angeles counties, including new fixed-route service, microtransit and zero-emission buses.
Additional projects will improve transit access at BART's Ashby Station in Berkeley, expand e-bike share in Truckee, and improve pedestrian safety near Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) tracks.
Delivering cleaner, more convenient transportation
Governor Newsom's investment in cleaner transportation, backed by the Legislature, will help put more than 75 new zero-emission buses and microtransit vehicles will help agencies transition to cleaner fleets while improving service for riders.
In Santa Monica, new battery-electric buses will complete the transition of the city's Big Blue Bus fleet to all-electric vehicles. Additional zero-emission buses will serve communities in Sacramento, Kings County, Marin County and Montebello, while Merced County will expand cleaner microtransit options.
The awards will also make transit more convenient, including introducing tap-to-pay fares using a bank card or phone across Metrolink, improving access at Downtown Burbank Station and modernizing California's statewide bi-level intercity passenger rail fleet.
Other projects include new track and safety infrastructure for Caltrain, pedestrian safety improvements at SMART's Ward neighborhood rail crossing, and planning to improve service along the Los Angeles-San Diego-San Luis Obispo rail corridor ahead of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Keeping Californians moving
Governor Newsom secured a $4.64 billion transit recovery package with the Legislature to help keep buses and trains running and fund transit improvements across California. Today's awards build on that commitment, helping keep essential trains running while requiring work toward long-term financial stability.
In Southern California, a $20 million investment will help Metrolink avoid proposed service reductions of 29% on weekdays and 40% on weekends compared with its 2025 schedule. The funding will help maintain service for workers, students and families through summer 2028, as the region prepares to host the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The investment comes with an expectation that Metrolink and its member agencies will work with the state to identify long-term solutions to the system's funding challenges.
Additional investments will help maintain existing COASTER commuter rail service in San Diego County and improve reliability along some of California's busiest passenger rail corridors.
Projects include replacing aging railroad signals and infrastructure near Davis Station to reduce disruptions along the Capitol Corridor, constructing new rail infrastructure in Santa Clara County to improve passenger and freight rail operations, and upgrading signals and communications along the SPRINTER rail line between Oceanside and Escondido.
"We are grateful to Governor Newsom, Secretary Omishakin and the State of California for recognizing the essential role Metrolink plays in connecting Southern California's communities," said Metrolink CEO Darren Kettle. "This critical investment helps us maintain the service our riders depend on to get to work, attend school and access opportunities throughout the region. It also provides much-needed stability as we work with the state and our member agencies to build a more sustainable future for regional rail. Reliable, accessible transportation is vital to our region's economic health and quality of life, and this funding helps ensure we can continue delivering on that commitment."
Putting California's climate investments to work
Governor Newsom is putting California's climate investments to work building cleaner transportation and stronger transit connections. Backed by the Legislature, these awards will help preserve transportation services that Californians count on today while funding improvements for the future. Nearly $1.3 billion will support 19 projects through the eighth cycle of TIRCP, which funds improvements to California's intercity, commuter and urban rail systems, as well as bus and ferry transit systems.
Since 2015, TIRCP has awarded more than $12.7 billion to 171 projects statewide, supporting improvements that expand transit service, increase ridership, improve safety and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
An additional $66.5 million in State Rail Assistance funding will support eight projects that protect existing passenger rail service and improve rail safety, reliability, and operations.
Both programs receive funding through Senate Bill 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017. TIRCP also receives funding through California's Cap-and-Invest program and is part of California Climate Investments, which puts Cap-and-Invest dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy and improving public health and the environment.
Together, these investments help preserve the transportation Californians rely on today while building cleaner, more connected communities for the future.
California's transportation leadership
Under Governor Newsom, California is investing in cleaner transportation, stronger transit connections, and infrastructure that helps people and goods move across the state.
* Transportation and innovation. The California State Transportation Agency oversees more than $12 billion in annual transportation funding across eight state agencies -- delivering roads, bridges, rail, transit, and zero-emission infrastructure to every corner of the state. The California Transportation Commission allocates an additional $10 billion annually for transportation projects. Caltrans manages more than 50,000 miles of highway, and recently launched Traffic Mobility Insights, an AI-powered platform that unifies seven statewide traffic systems, refreshes highway bottleneck detection every 25 minutes, and can generate emergency evacuation routes in minutes during wildfires or earthquakes.
* High-speed rail. California's high-speed rail project is advancing daily, with major segments from Merced to Bakersfield under design and construction. More than 90 miles of guideway are complete, along with 70 fully completed major structures and 22 more structures underway across Madera, Fresno, Kings, and Tulare counties. In October, the California High-Speed Rail Authority reached two major milestones: approving a contract for high-speed trains and completing the final environmental review for the San Francisco-Los Angeles/Anaheim system.
* Cleaner cars, trucks, and school buses. Under the Governor's leadership, Californians have purchased almost 2.8 million zero-emission vehicles, and nearly 12,000 have switched to electric cars with incentives from California's MyFirstEV rebate program. The state's clean vehicle manufacturing and infrastructure industries have also announced more than 25,000 jobs. In 2025, San Bernardino County made history by welcoming the first hydrogen-powered passenger train into revenue service in North America. In May, Governor Newsom launched a $1 billion rebate program for electric medium- and heavy-duty trucks, and in April 2025, announced $500 million for 1,000 clean school buses statewide. Demand for zero-emission bus and truck incentives has more than doubled year-over-year.
Governor Newsom's Build More, Faster - For All infrastructure agenda has driven historic investments in transportation that will benefit all Californians for decades to come. More than 29,000 California infrastructure projects are tracked at build.ca.gov.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/11/10/governor-newsom-announces-nearly-1-3-billion-for-cleaner-transportation-stronger-transit-connections/
Governor Ayotte Joins Bipartisan Call for Federal Energy Assistance
CONCORD, New Hampshire, Nov. 12 -- Gov. Kelly Ayotte, R-New Hampshire, issued the following news release:
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November 10, 2026
Governor Ayotte Joins Bipartisan Call for Federal Energy Assistance
New England Governors Call for Additional $3 Billion in LIHEAP Funds
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CONCORD, NH -- Today, Governor Kelly Ayotte joined fellow New England Governors in calling on Congress PDF document to provide an additional $3 billion in funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) ahead of winter.
"No one should have to worry about how to heat their home this winter, and Congress ... Show Full Article CONCORD, New Hampshire, Nov. 12 -- Gov. Kelly Ayotte, R-New Hampshire, issued the following news release: * * * November 10, 2026 Governor Ayotte Joins Bipartisan Call for Federal Energy Assistance New England Governors Call for Additional $3 Billion in LIHEAP Funds - CONCORD, NH -- Today, Governor Kelly Ayotte joined fellow New England Governors in calling on Congress PDF document to provide an additional $3 billion in funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) ahead of winter. "No one should have to worry about how to heat their home this winter, and Congressmust act to ensure families in New Hampshire and across our region have the support they need," said Governor Ayotte. "I'm joining fellow New England Governors today in calling for the federal government to increase funding for LIHEAP to help sustain this critical assistance and protect our most vulnerable citizens through the winter."
The Governors' letter calls for an additional $3 billion as soon as possible, through increased annual funding or an emergency supplemental appropriation.
* * *
INFODOC: https://www.governor.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt971/files/media/media_document/ne-govs-liheap.pdf
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Original text here: https://www.governor.nh.gov/news/governor-ayotte-joins-bipartisan-call-federal-energy-assistance
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November 10, 2026
Governor Ayotte Joins Bipartisan Call for Federal Energy Assistance
New England Governors Call for Additional $3 Billion in LIHEAP Funds
-
CONCORD, NH -- Today, Governor Kelly Ayotte joined fellow New England Governors in calling on Congress PDF document to provide an additional $3 billion in funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) ahead of winter.
"No one should have to worry about how to heat their home this winter, and Congress ... Show Full Article CONCORD, New Hampshire, Nov. 12 -- Gov. Kelly Ayotte, R-New Hampshire, issued the following news release: * * * November 10, 2026 Governor Ayotte Joins Bipartisan Call for Federal Energy Assistance New England Governors Call for Additional $3 Billion in LIHEAP Funds - CONCORD, NH -- Today, Governor Kelly Ayotte joined fellow New England Governors in calling on Congress PDF document to provide an additional $3 billion in funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) ahead of winter. "No one should have to worry about how to heat their home this winter, and Congressmust act to ensure families in New Hampshire and across our region have the support they need," said Governor Ayotte. "I'm joining fellow New England Governors today in calling for the federal government to increase funding for LIHEAP to help sustain this critical assistance and protect our most vulnerable citizens through the winter."
The Governors' letter calls for an additional $3 billion as soon as possible, through increased annual funding or an emergency supplemental appropriation.
* * *
INFODOC: https://www.governor.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt971/files/media/media_document/ne-govs-liheap.pdf
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Original text here: https://www.governor.nh.gov/news/governor-ayotte-joins-bipartisan-call-federal-energy-assistance
Governor Abbott Announces $281 Million In Rural Healthcare Grants
AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 12 -- Gov. Greg Abbott, R-Texas, issued the following news release:
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Governor Abbott Announces $281 Million In Rural Healthcare Grants
November 10, 2026 | Austin, Texas
Governor Greg Abbott today announced the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will receive $281 million in federal funding for the second year of Rural Texas Strong, a five-year initiative to improve rural healthcare throughout the state.
"This $281 million will deliver critical resources for patients and facilities in rural Texas," said Governor Abbott. "Providers will recruit and retain ... Show Full Article AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 12 -- Gov. Greg Abbott, R-Texas, issued the following news release: * * * Governor Abbott Announces $281 Million In Rural Healthcare Grants November 10, 2026 | Austin, Texas Governor Greg Abbott today announced the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will receive $281 million in federal funding for the second year of Rural Texas Strong, a five-year initiative to improve rural healthcare throughout the state. "This $281 million will deliver critical resources for patients and facilities in rural Texas," said Governor Abbott. "Providers will recruit and retainpersonnel, upgrade equipment and facilities, and expand preventative care so rural Texans receive the healthcare they need close to home."
"Rural Texas Strong laid a strong foundation for improving access to care in rural communities," said HHS Executive Commissioner Stephanie Muth. "We look forward to building on that momentum in year two and continuing to bring healthcare closer to home through trusted local providers who serve their neighbors."
Rural Texas Strong, the CMS-approved state plan, is 100% federally funded and features six initiatives to help rural communities improve access to healthcare.
HHSC will use a competitive process to allocate funds for initiatives that:
* Reduce chronic disease through prevention, wellness and nutrition services.
* Invest in consumer-facing technology to engage patients on improving their health.
* Deploy artificial intelligence and telehealth services to bridge service gaps.
* Recruit and retain rural healthcare workers through career development. scholarships, relocation payments, and training programs.
* Improve cybersecurity defenses to protect patient data.
* Upgrade equipment in rural hospitals and clinics.
Eligible providers may apply for these initiatives beginning in November. Public notices and procurement opportunities for Rural Texas Strong will be announced through GovDelivery email notifications.
Federal funding is contingent upon meeting all applicable program requirements. For more information, visit the HHSC Rural Health Transformation webpage.
* * *
Original text here: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-announces-281-million-in-rural-healthcare-grants
* * *
Governor Abbott Announces $281 Million In Rural Healthcare Grants
November 10, 2026 | Austin, Texas
Governor Greg Abbott today announced the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will receive $281 million in federal funding for the second year of Rural Texas Strong, a five-year initiative to improve rural healthcare throughout the state.
"This $281 million will deliver critical resources for patients and facilities in rural Texas," said Governor Abbott. "Providers will recruit and retain ... Show Full Article AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 12 -- Gov. Greg Abbott, R-Texas, issued the following news release: * * * Governor Abbott Announces $281 Million In Rural Healthcare Grants November 10, 2026 | Austin, Texas Governor Greg Abbott today announced the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will receive $281 million in federal funding for the second year of Rural Texas Strong, a five-year initiative to improve rural healthcare throughout the state. "This $281 million will deliver critical resources for patients and facilities in rural Texas," said Governor Abbott. "Providers will recruit and retainpersonnel, upgrade equipment and facilities, and expand preventative care so rural Texans receive the healthcare they need close to home."
"Rural Texas Strong laid a strong foundation for improving access to care in rural communities," said HHS Executive Commissioner Stephanie Muth. "We look forward to building on that momentum in year two and continuing to bring healthcare closer to home through trusted local providers who serve their neighbors."
Rural Texas Strong, the CMS-approved state plan, is 100% federally funded and features six initiatives to help rural communities improve access to healthcare.
HHSC will use a competitive process to allocate funds for initiatives that:
* Reduce chronic disease through prevention, wellness and nutrition services.
* Invest in consumer-facing technology to engage patients on improving their health.
* Deploy artificial intelligence and telehealth services to bridge service gaps.
* Recruit and retain rural healthcare workers through career development. scholarships, relocation payments, and training programs.
* Improve cybersecurity defenses to protect patient data.
* Upgrade equipment in rural hospitals and clinics.
Eligible providers may apply for these initiatives beginning in November. Public notices and procurement opportunities for Rural Texas Strong will be announced through GovDelivery email notifications.
Federal funding is contingent upon meeting all applicable program requirements. For more information, visit the HHSC Rural Health Transformation webpage.
* * *
Original text here: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-announces-281-million-in-rural-healthcare-grants
Gov. Ayotte: Adam J. Crepeau Confirmed as DNCR Commissioner
CONCORD, New Hampshire, Nov. 12 -- Gov. Kelly Ayotte, R-New Hampshire, issued the following news release:
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November 10, 2026
Adam J. Crepeau Confirmed as DNCR Commissioner
CONCORD, NH - Today, the Governor and Executive Council unanimously confirmed the nomination of Adam J. Crepeau of Gilford as Commissioner of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
Crepeau began serving as interim commissioner of the department in February and was nominated by Governor Kelly Ayotte for a four-year term on October 21.
"Adam Crepeau has done an exceptional job leading the Department of Natural ... Show Full Article CONCORD, New Hampshire, Nov. 12 -- Gov. Kelly Ayotte, R-New Hampshire, issued the following news release: * * * November 10, 2026 Adam J. Crepeau Confirmed as DNCR Commissioner CONCORD, NH - Today, the Governor and Executive Council unanimously confirmed the nomination of Adam J. Crepeau of Gilford as Commissioner of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. Crepeau began serving as interim commissioner of the department in February and was nominated by Governor Kelly Ayotte for a four-year term on October 21. "Adam Crepeau has done an exceptional job leading the Department of Naturaland Cultural Resources as Interim Commissioner, ensuring our state parks and historical landmarks remain a jewel for residents and visitors alike," said Governor Ayotte. "I'm pleased Adam was confirmed by the Council today, and I look forward to continuing to work together to protect and preserve the natural beauty and history that make New Hampshire so special."
The DNCR includes the State Library, Division of Forests and Lands, State Parks, the State Council on the Arts and the Division of Historical Resources. It was formed by Gov. Christopher T. Sununu in 2017.
"Serving as commissioner of the DNCR is both a tremendous privilege and a profound responsibility," said Crepeau. "I am proud to lead such a dedicated staff that stewards the assets we call home, from our natural landscapes to our historic and cultural resources. "Preserving and strengthening these treasures for future generations is essential to protecting the unique character, heritage and quality of life that make New Hampshire, New Hampshire."
Prior to joining the DNCR, Crepeau had spent nearly three years as assistant commissioner at the N.H. Department of Environmental Services, where his accomplishments included implementing a new information technology solution for NHDES' land resources programs and streamlining that department's permitting processes.
Crepeau served as a policy advisor and then policy director for Governor Sununu, assisting with negotiations for the bipartisan $15.2 billion state budget for the 2024-25 biennium.
He graduated summa cum laude from the University of New Hampshire, received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Justice Studies.
The N.H. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources' five divisions are dedicated to protecting, promoting and managing a wide variety of New Hampshire's natural, recreational and cultural resources. Together, these resources help define our state and are major drivers of our economy and high quality of life. For more information, visit dncr.nh.gov.
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Original text here: https://www.governor.nh.gov/news/adam-j-crepeau-confirmed-dncr-commissioner
* * *
November 10, 2026
Adam J. Crepeau Confirmed as DNCR Commissioner
CONCORD, NH - Today, the Governor and Executive Council unanimously confirmed the nomination of Adam J. Crepeau of Gilford as Commissioner of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
Crepeau began serving as interim commissioner of the department in February and was nominated by Governor Kelly Ayotte for a four-year term on October 21.
"Adam Crepeau has done an exceptional job leading the Department of Natural ... Show Full Article CONCORD, New Hampshire, Nov. 12 -- Gov. Kelly Ayotte, R-New Hampshire, issued the following news release: * * * November 10, 2026 Adam J. Crepeau Confirmed as DNCR Commissioner CONCORD, NH - Today, the Governor and Executive Council unanimously confirmed the nomination of Adam J. Crepeau of Gilford as Commissioner of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. Crepeau began serving as interim commissioner of the department in February and was nominated by Governor Kelly Ayotte for a four-year term on October 21. "Adam Crepeau has done an exceptional job leading the Department of Naturaland Cultural Resources as Interim Commissioner, ensuring our state parks and historical landmarks remain a jewel for residents and visitors alike," said Governor Ayotte. "I'm pleased Adam was confirmed by the Council today, and I look forward to continuing to work together to protect and preserve the natural beauty and history that make New Hampshire so special."
The DNCR includes the State Library, Division of Forests and Lands, State Parks, the State Council on the Arts and the Division of Historical Resources. It was formed by Gov. Christopher T. Sununu in 2017.
"Serving as commissioner of the DNCR is both a tremendous privilege and a profound responsibility," said Crepeau. "I am proud to lead such a dedicated staff that stewards the assets we call home, from our natural landscapes to our historic and cultural resources. "Preserving and strengthening these treasures for future generations is essential to protecting the unique character, heritage and quality of life that make New Hampshire, New Hampshire."
Prior to joining the DNCR, Crepeau had spent nearly three years as assistant commissioner at the N.H. Department of Environmental Services, where his accomplishments included implementing a new information technology solution for NHDES' land resources programs and streamlining that department's permitting processes.
Crepeau served as a policy advisor and then policy director for Governor Sununu, assisting with negotiations for the bipartisan $15.2 billion state budget for the 2024-25 biennium.
He graduated summa cum laude from the University of New Hampshire, received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Justice Studies.
The N.H. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources' five divisions are dedicated to protecting, promoting and managing a wide variety of New Hampshire's natural, recreational and cultural resources. Together, these resources help define our state and are major drivers of our economy and high quality of life. For more information, visit dncr.nh.gov.
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Original text here: https://www.governor.nh.gov/news/adam-j-crepeau-confirmed-dncr-commissioner
Florida Surpasses 540 Purple Star Schools of Distinction, Recognizing Commitment to Military Families
TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Nov. 12 -- The Florida Department of Education issued the following news release:
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Florida Surpasses 540 Purple Star Schools of Distinction, Recognizing Commitment to Military Families
Florida Recognizes 94 Newly Designated Purple Star Schools, 69 Renewals, and Three New Purple Star Districts
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Tallahassee, Fla., November 11, 2026 -- In recognition of Veterans Day, the Florida Department of Education recognizes Florida's continued commitment to military-connected students and families. Florida now has over 540 Purple Star Schools of Distinction, with 94 new schools ... Show Full Article TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Nov. 12 -- The Florida Department of Education issued the following news release: * * * Florida Surpasses 540 Purple Star Schools of Distinction, Recognizing Commitment to Military Families Florida Recognizes 94 Newly Designated Purple Star Schools, 69 Renewals, and Three New Purple Star Districts - Tallahassee, Fla., November 11, 2026 -- In recognition of Veterans Day, the Florida Department of Education recognizes Florida's continued commitment to military-connected students and families. Florida now has over 540 Purple Star Schools of Distinction, with 94 new schoolsearning the designation, and 69 schools renewing their designation. Additionally, three school districts--Clay County Schools, Escambia County Schools, and Flagler County Schools--have earned the Purple Star School District Designation, bringing the statewide total to nine districts recognized for their commitment to supporting military families. The Purple Star School of Distinction designation is valid for three years.
"Congratulations to the schools and districts earning the Purple Star School of Distinction designation," said Commissioner of Education Henry Mack. "Every student deserves a school environment where they feel welcomed, supported, and ready to succeed. The schools and districts receiving this designation have demonstrated a commitment to recognizing the unique experiences of military-connected students and ensuring they have the support and opportunities to succeed academically and personally."
Supporting Military-Connected Students
Established by the Florida Legislature in 2021, the Purple Star School of Distinction program recognizes schools that demonstrate a commitment to supporting military-connected students and their families. The program began with 124 schools and has grown to more than 540 designated schools statewide.
To earn the Florida Purple Star School of Distinction Designation, schools must meet several requirements, including:
* Designating a school military point of contact to serve as the central liaison for military families.
* Maintaining a dedicated school webpage with resources for military students and families, including academic planning, transition planning, and educational opportunities.
* Establishing a student-led transition program to assist military students coming into the school.
* Providing professional development for staff to help them identify and respond to the needs of military families.
* Reserving five percent of open enrollment seats for military-connected students
* Offering at least three additional activities to support military families, such as participating in a community service project that connects the school with the military community, hosting an annual military recognition event, or offering a JROTC program.
Recognizing Districtwide Support
Established in 2024, the Florida Purple Star School District Designation honors districts that demonstrate a strong commitment to meeting the unique needs of military families and ensuring educational continuity for students of active-duty service members. In accordance with Rule 6A-1.0999(4)(c), F.A.C., districts must have at least 75% of their schools earn the Purple Star School of Distinction Designation to qualify for district-level recognition.
Six school districts previously earned the Florida Purple Star School District Designation, setting a standard for excellence in service to military families. This year, Clay County Schools, Escambia County Schools, and Flagler County Schools join Bay, Brevard, Citrus, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and Florida Virtual School, bringing the total to nine.
Supporting Military Families
During his administration, Governor Ron DeSantis has continued to champion active military and veteran families through numerous initiatives and legislation, including:
* Heroes in the Classroom Bonus Program: Signed House Bill 1035 (2023) to provide a one-time sign-on bonus to retired first responders and veterans who become full-time classroom teachers.
* Collegiate Purple Star Campuses Program: Established a program to support military members, veterans, and their families while attending a Florida college or university.
* Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children: Re-enacted the compact to ensure a smooth transition for children of active-duty military families by enabling seamless school placement, enrollment, records transfers, and verification of graduation requirements.
* Military Veterans Certification Pathway: Signed Senate Bill 896 (2022) into law to help veterans access jobs in education by allowing their military service to count toward the requirement for a temporary educator certificate under the mentorship of a certified teacher.
* Military experience in state employment: Allowed state agencies to substitute work experience, including military experience, for post-secondary education to allow veterans to use the job experience to apply for civilian jobs.
* Military experience credit: Facilitated credit for military experience to guarantee military service members receive uniform postsecondary college credit or clock hours based upon their completion of military courses, training, and occupations when applying to any Florida public postsecondary institution.
For the full list of Purple Star Schools of Distinction and details on how to join Florida's growing roster of military-friendly schools, visit the Florida Department of Education's Purple Star webpage.
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Original text here: https://www.fldoe.org/newsroom/latest-news/florida-surpasses-540-purple-star-schools-of-distinction-recognizing-commitment-to-military-families.stml
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Florida Surpasses 540 Purple Star Schools of Distinction, Recognizing Commitment to Military Families
Florida Recognizes 94 Newly Designated Purple Star Schools, 69 Renewals, and Three New Purple Star Districts
-
Tallahassee, Fla., November 11, 2026 -- In recognition of Veterans Day, the Florida Department of Education recognizes Florida's continued commitment to military-connected students and families. Florida now has over 540 Purple Star Schools of Distinction, with 94 new schools ... Show Full Article TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Nov. 12 -- The Florida Department of Education issued the following news release: * * * Florida Surpasses 540 Purple Star Schools of Distinction, Recognizing Commitment to Military Families Florida Recognizes 94 Newly Designated Purple Star Schools, 69 Renewals, and Three New Purple Star Districts - Tallahassee, Fla., November 11, 2026 -- In recognition of Veterans Day, the Florida Department of Education recognizes Florida's continued commitment to military-connected students and families. Florida now has over 540 Purple Star Schools of Distinction, with 94 new schoolsearning the designation, and 69 schools renewing their designation. Additionally, three school districts--Clay County Schools, Escambia County Schools, and Flagler County Schools--have earned the Purple Star School District Designation, bringing the statewide total to nine districts recognized for their commitment to supporting military families. The Purple Star School of Distinction designation is valid for three years.
"Congratulations to the schools and districts earning the Purple Star School of Distinction designation," said Commissioner of Education Henry Mack. "Every student deserves a school environment where they feel welcomed, supported, and ready to succeed. The schools and districts receiving this designation have demonstrated a commitment to recognizing the unique experiences of military-connected students and ensuring they have the support and opportunities to succeed academically and personally."
Supporting Military-Connected Students
Established by the Florida Legislature in 2021, the Purple Star School of Distinction program recognizes schools that demonstrate a commitment to supporting military-connected students and their families. The program began with 124 schools and has grown to more than 540 designated schools statewide.
To earn the Florida Purple Star School of Distinction Designation, schools must meet several requirements, including:
* Designating a school military point of contact to serve as the central liaison for military families.
* Maintaining a dedicated school webpage with resources for military students and families, including academic planning, transition planning, and educational opportunities.
* Establishing a student-led transition program to assist military students coming into the school.
* Providing professional development for staff to help them identify and respond to the needs of military families.
* Reserving five percent of open enrollment seats for military-connected students
* Offering at least three additional activities to support military families, such as participating in a community service project that connects the school with the military community, hosting an annual military recognition event, or offering a JROTC program.
Recognizing Districtwide Support
Established in 2024, the Florida Purple Star School District Designation honors districts that demonstrate a strong commitment to meeting the unique needs of military families and ensuring educational continuity for students of active-duty service members. In accordance with Rule 6A-1.0999(4)(c), F.A.C., districts must have at least 75% of their schools earn the Purple Star School of Distinction Designation to qualify for district-level recognition.
Six school districts previously earned the Florida Purple Star School District Designation, setting a standard for excellence in service to military families. This year, Clay County Schools, Escambia County Schools, and Flagler County Schools join Bay, Brevard, Citrus, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and Florida Virtual School, bringing the total to nine.
Supporting Military Families
During his administration, Governor Ron DeSantis has continued to champion active military and veteran families through numerous initiatives and legislation, including:
* Heroes in the Classroom Bonus Program: Signed House Bill 1035 (2023) to provide a one-time sign-on bonus to retired first responders and veterans who become full-time classroom teachers.
* Collegiate Purple Star Campuses Program: Established a program to support military members, veterans, and their families while attending a Florida college or university.
* Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children: Re-enacted the compact to ensure a smooth transition for children of active-duty military families by enabling seamless school placement, enrollment, records transfers, and verification of graduation requirements.
* Military Veterans Certification Pathway: Signed Senate Bill 896 (2022) into law to help veterans access jobs in education by allowing their military service to count toward the requirement for a temporary educator certificate under the mentorship of a certified teacher.
* Military experience in state employment: Allowed state agencies to substitute work experience, including military experience, for post-secondary education to allow veterans to use the job experience to apply for civilian jobs.
* Military experience credit: Facilitated credit for military experience to guarantee military service members receive uniform postsecondary college credit or clock hours based upon their completion of military courses, training, and occupations when applying to any Florida public postsecondary institution.
For the full list of Purple Star Schools of Distinction and details on how to join Florida's growing roster of military-friendly schools, visit the Florida Department of Education's Purple Star webpage.
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Original text here: https://www.fldoe.org/newsroom/latest-news/florida-surpasses-540-purple-star-schools-of-distinction-recognizing-commitment-to-military-families.stml