Veterans Outdoor Rehabilitation Act would help veterans in New Hampshire and across the country connect with community and strengthen their well-being
Concord, N.H. — Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (NH-02) and Congressman Jeff Hurd (CO-03) introduced the bipartisan Veterans Outdoor Rehabilitation Act, legislation to help veterans in New Hampshire and across the country access outdoor recreation programs that support their mental and physical well-being.
The Veterans Outdoor Rehabilitation Act would establish a grant program through the Department of Veterans Affairs for state veterans’ agencies to develop, administer, and expand outdoor recreation programs for veterans. States could operate programs directly or partner with local outfitters, guides, nonprofit organizations, and community-based outdoor recreation providers.
“Our obligation to those who served doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. In New Hampshire, our mountains, lakes, and trails offer veterans opportunities to build community and strengthen their physical and mental well-being,” said Congresswoman Goodlander. “I’m proud to help introduce the bipartisan Veterans Outdoor Rehabilitation Act with Congressman Hurd to make those opportunities available to more veterans. By helping cover equipment, transportation, and program costs, our bill would help more veterans get outdoors, connect with one another, and find the support they’ve earned.”
“For many veterans, the transition from military service can mean losing the sense of purpose, community, and connection that came with serving alongside others,” said Congressman Hurd. “Colorado’s public lands and outdoor spaces offer opportunities to rebuild those connections while supporting veterans’ physical and mental well-being. This bipartisan legislation gives states more tools to work with local organizations and expand outdoor recreation opportunities so that more veterans can benefit from time outdoors and with one another.”
Under the legislation, grant funding could be used to reduce financial barriers that may prevent veterans from participating in outdoor recreation programs, including the costs of equipment, program fees, and reasonable transportation expenses. Funding could also support outreach to veterans and the expansion of existing programs.
The bill would also encourage state veterans’ agencies to work with federal land management agencies, including the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, to expand veterans’ access to outdoor spaces, reduce administrative barriers, and identify appropriate locations for organized activities.
The legislation defines eligible outdoor recreation programs broadly as nature-based activities designed to improve veterans’ mental and physical well-being through physical engagement, peer connection, skill-building, or therapeutic benefit. Programs may also include adaptive or accessible activities for veterans with disabilities.
Each eligible state entity whose application meets the bill’s requirements would receive at least $200,000 per fiscal year, subject to available appropriations. The legislation authorizes $10 million annually for the grant program. Participating states would also report information including the number of veterans served, types of activities offered, participation frequency, and observations related to veterans’ well-being, social connectedness, and physical activity.
Read the full bill text here. Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) leads the Senate companion to this bill.
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