Gov. Henry McMaster, Veterans, Members of S.C. General Assembly Call for Cabinet-level Division of Veterans Affairs

Columbia, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster was joined today by veterans, members of the General Assembly, and S.C. Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Van McCarty in supporting proposed legislation which would make the South Carolina Division of Veterans Affairs a standalone cabinet agency. Currently, the Division of Veterans Affairs is housed under the Department of Administration.

“Our history in South Carolina is all about the military,” said Gov. Henry McMaster. “It is time to pass this legislation. This is one of those things we don't need to study any longer. It is important to the Pentagon. It is important to our defense. It is important that our veterans, through a cabinet agency, have the status, attention, and focus they have earned through their service to our state and country.”

To watch video of the full event, click here.

“South Carolina has a rich history of supporting the armed forces and our veterans,” said Senator Katrina Shealy, the sponsor of S. 454. “With the bill that I've introduced, we will alleviate the needs of the veterans who have answered the call to serve our country. The Division of Veterans Affairs will have an expanded role in serving not just former members of the military, but also those who are currently serving and those who wish to serve in the future.”

“This legislation is near and dear to my heart,” said Representative Bobby Cox, a combat veteran and sponsor of H. 3438. “During my time in active duty, my family moved to seven different bases and I deployed for combat four times. My story is not unique. There are thousands of people leaving the military every day who are looking to move to a place that is military friendly. South Carolina has a deep appreciation of veterans worn into its DNA.”

“This is not only a good thing to do, it is the right thing to do,” said Maj. Gen. Van McCarty, South Carolina’s Adjutant General. “South Carolina has a rich military history all the way back to colonial days with our militia, and through the years the men and women of our state have answered the call when our nation has asked them to do so.”