Senator Jerry Moran, chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, led a committee hearing on Apr. 16 with veterans, advocates from the Veterans Justice Commission and All Rise, as well as representatives from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Department of Justice (DOJ), to review federal, state, and local programs for justice-involved veterans and Veteran Treatment Courts. The committee also discussed DOJ’s plans to establish a National Center for Veterans Justice.
The topic is important because it addresses how specialized court systems can help veterans transition out of military service while providing accountability and support tailored to their experiences. These efforts aim to improve outcomes for veterans who become involved in the justice system.
During the hearing, testimony was given by three Kansans: former Kansas Supreme Court Chief Justice Lawton Nuss; retired U.S. Army Major General Clyde “Butch” Tate; and Corey Schramm, a U.S. Army veteran who graduated from Johnson County's Veterans Treatment Court. Since its inception in 2016, five more such courts have opened across Kansas with 88 graduates completing the program.
“These are the folks that know best when it comes to these issues, and they are relentless on behalf of veterans and veterans justice,” said Sen. Moran. “All of our witnesses provide examples of why we work to support veterans when they transition out of the military, and the value they add to our communities and our country after their service when that transition goes well.”
In January 2026, Congress enacted legislation sponsored by Moran that provided full funding for Veterans Treatment Courts while seeking savings elsewhere in government spending. The law ensures that veterans receive specialized services tailored to their needs as former service members. It also included $4 million in federal funds for DOJ’s planned National Center for Veterans Justice.
“I was encouraged to see DOJ’s March release of a Notice of Funding Availability for Veterans Treatment Courts, followed by their commitment to brief the committee on both their plans for the establishment of the National Center, and technical assistance funding to support the training of treatment court staff and their partners nationwide,” continued Sen. Moran.
The Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee has contributed toward social progress by improving access to VA health care services and helping ease transitions back into civilian life according to its official website. The committee operates offices within the U.S. Capitol complex according to its official website.
As part of its responsibilities within the United States Senate system—including collaboration with entities like VA—the committee oversees benefits programs designed specifically for America’s veteran population according to its official website. Senator Jerry Moran serves as chairman alongside ranking member Richard Blumenthal according to its official website. Its jurisdiction extends over all national veteran-related programs according to its official website.
