Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed three bills Saturday aimed at improving services for veterans, marking the legislation at a Houston gala honoring combat Marines.
The new laws will create a veteran contact database, streamline professional licensing for military families, and consolidate veteran programs under a single state agency.
Texas leads the nation in jobs created by veteran-owned businesses, doubling such positions since 2022, according to a press release.
“Texas is home to more veterans than any other state,” Abbott said at the Combat Marine Outdoors annual gala. “We owe every member who serves our country the deepest appreciation that we have.”
“America would not be America, we would not be the freest and strongest, most powerful country in the history of the world if it weren’t for these soldiers,” he added.
Senate Bill 1814 establishes an electronic database for service members leaving active duty. The voluntary system will connect veterans with state resources and support organizations.
Senate Bill 1818 requires Texas licensing agencies to immediately issue provisional licenses to military members, veterans, and spouses holding out-of-state credentials.
House Bill 114 transfers several veteran programs from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to the Texas Veterans Commission. The consolidation aims to streamline service delivery.
Abbott also highlighted Senate Bill 2308, which has been previously signed, which provides matching funds for ibogaine research. The substance shows promise in treating opioid addiction and behavioral health conditions affecting veterans.
Joining the governor were Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock, several state representatives, and Combat Marine Outdoors founders Alan Orr and Arturo Garcia, both retired Marines.