WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1171

Relating to a study on state land use to facilitate health and wellness for veterans.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Philip Cortez and 2 co-sponsors

Texas bill directs study of state-owned land availability to develop health and wellness facilities and programs specifically for veterans.

Left pending in subcommittee
#generallandoffice(v2808) #historicalcommission #texas(v0238) #health--general(i0385) #interimstudies(i0448) #military&veterans(i0535) #parks&wildlifedepartment(v0045) #parks&wildlife--general(i0585) #veteranscommission #texas(v0016)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1171

Legislative bill overview

HB 1171 directs Texas to conduct a comprehensive study on how state-owned lands could be utilized to support health and wellness programs for veterans. The bill requires examination of existing state properties and identifies opportunities for establishing veteran-focused facilities, recreational areas, or services on public land.

Why is this important

Veterans face elevated rates of mental health challenges, physical disabilities, and social isolation, which evidence suggests can be mitigated through access to outdoor recreation and wellness programs. By studying state land availability, Texas could potentially create low-cost or no-cost wellness resources specifically designed for the veteran population without requiring significant new expenditures on property acquisition.

Potential points of contention

  • Land use prioritization: Determining whether dedicating state lands to veteran wellness represents the best use of those properties compared to other public needs (education, conservation, economic development)
  • Implementation costs: While the bill funds a study, the actual creation of veteran wellness facilities could require substantial ongoing operational and maintenance budgets beyond what the study itself costs
  • Geographic equity: Rural veterans may have limited access to facilities if programs concentrate in urban areas where state land availability differs significantly

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.