Public Media from Michigan State University

MI Rep: GR veterans home scandal highlights need for improved services

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Rep. Tom Barrent (R-Potterville)
Courtesy photo

Republican state Rep. Tom Barrettand Democratic State Sen. David Knezek are working together to form the Michigan Veterans Institute. The non-profit will work to help vets get services they need. Current State talks with Representative Barrett about the project.

A new effort to boost the lives of veterans in Michigan has been announced by a state House Republican and a state Senate Democrat. The recent announcement of formation of the Michigan Veterans Institute came close on the heels of a scathing state audit of the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. The audit found the private company operating the facility has a poor record when it comes to performing basic but crucial tasks like bed checks and responding to emergency calls.

Current State talks with one of the lawmakers forming the Michigan Veterans Institute, Potterville Republican Rep. Tom Barrett. He says this project, with Senate Democrat David Knezek, was already in the works when the news from Grand Rapids broke.

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Scott Pohl is a general assignment news reporter and produces news features and interviews. He is also an alternate local host on NPR's "Morning Edition."