In 2025, Governor Greg Abbott followed through on his commitment to Texas veterans with concrete legislation, record funding, and expanded access to services across the state.
1. Property Tax Relief for Veterans
In June, Governor Abbott signed HB 2508 into law, providing the framework for historic expansion of property tax relief for veterans. This legislation provides a total 100% exemption on the residence homestead of surviving spouses whose veteran died from conditions like burn pit exposure, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances.
Additionally, Texas provides a full 100% property tax exemption on residence homesteads for 100% disabled veterans and their spouses. This applies to all taxing units, not only school districts.
2. Record Funding for Veteran Assistance
In May, Texas distributed $46.3 million through the Fund for Veterans’ Assistance, marking the largest single allocation in the program’s history. The grants went to 175 organizations and are expected to benefit nearly 40,000 veterans and their family members.
The funding supports a broad range of services, including clinical counseling, employment assistance, financial aid, home modifications, homelessness prevention, peer support programs, transportation services, legal aid, and Veterans Treatment Courts.
3. New Laws to Ease the Transition to Civilian Life
At the Combat Marine Outdoors Gala in August, Governor Abbott ceremonially signed three bills designed to make the transition from military service to civilian life more manageable.
Senate Bill 1814 establishes an electronic database to better connect departing service members with state agencies and veteran organizations.
Senate Bill 1818 requires licensing agencies to issue provisional licenses that recognize out-of-state licenses held by service members, veterans, and military spouses.
Along the same lines, House Bill 5629 addresses a common obstacle veterans face when entering the civilian workforce: occupational licensing requirements. The legislation removes barriers to license recognition and waives certain fees, reflecting the training and experience veterans already bring with them. For many veterans, this change allows them to work in jobs they are already qualified to perform.
Finally, House Bill 114 transfers veteran programs from the Health and Human Services Commission to the Texas Veterans Commission, placing those services under a single agency.
Taken together, these changes are intended to cut down on delays, confusion, and unnecessary bureaucracy when veterans seek assistance.
4. Investment in Veteran Mental Health Research
Governor Abbott also signed Senate Bill 2308, which provides state matching funds for research into ibogaine, a treatment being studied for opioid addiction, PTSD, and other neurological and behavioral health conditions.
Because veterans experience these challenges at higher rates than the general population, Texas has positioned itself as a leader in exploring alternative treatment options.
5. Job Growth and Hiring Opportunities
Through the 2025 Hiring Red, White & You! Initiative, Texas hosted more than 30 job fairs across the state for veteran applicants. Employers who hire veterans may qualify for the federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit, worth up to $9,600 per eligible hir
Texas also leads the nation in jobs created by veteran-owned businesses, having more than doubled that number since 2022. Texas is home to 1 in 10 of all veteran-owned businesses in the United States. Employers who hire veterans may qualify for the federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit, worth up to $9,600 per eligible hire.
6. Recognition of Women Veterans
In March 2025, Governor Abbott proclaimed Women Veterans Month in Texas, formally recognizing the service and sacrifices of women who have served in the U.S. military. Texas is home to more women veterans than any other state.
“Texas is home to more veterans than any other state,” Governor Abbott said. “We owe every member who serves our country our deepest appreciation. Texas will always honor the service and sacrifice of those who served the United States of America.”