Legislative budget writers have approved a legislative intent clause for the Division of Veterans Services budget for next year that asks the division, working with the legislative and executive branches, to analyze why a fund balance of more than $30 million has grown and how it can best be used for the benefit of veterans, rather than tapping into the fund for other purposes next year. That balance had been discussed as a possible funding source for various other projects, from the Youth Challenge project in Orofino to replacing hospital assessments propping up Medicaid.

Rep. Marv Hagedorn, R-Meridian, said, "If there are funds there that maybe belong in the general fund, then let's get those funds back into the general fund for general use. If the nexus of those funds are for veterans, then let's get those back into veterans services." The clause asks for updates on the analysis at least quarterly.