Indiana Governor Mike Braun used his first two years in office to spotlight a suite of veteran‑focused initiatives that lower costs, expand housing options and create career pathways for those who have served our nation. The measures, announced in Indianapolis, reflect the administration’s dedication to honoring veterans and strengthening families across the Hoosier State.
Property tax relief for disabled veterans
Earlier this year Braun signed legislation that eliminates property taxes on the primary residences of totally disabled veterans. The bill also removed the previous assessed‑value cap, opening eligibility to more than 50,000 additional veterans with disability ratings of at least 10 percent, as well as their surviving spouses. The tax credits can be combined with other eligible credits, delivering even greater relief. Veterans seeking guidance can contact their county veteran service officer through the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs.
Doubling housing assistance
Braun’s office reports that the state has doubled resources for nonprofit organizations that assist Indiana veterans. The increased funding aims to prevent homelessness and connect veterans with essential services. According to the governor’s office, Indiana saw an 18.7% drop in veteran homelessness between 2024 and 2025 – the second‑largest percentage decline among states, based on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s annual assessment. The Military Family Relief Fund also provides direct financial assistance to eligible veterans and their families facing hardship, helping cover basic household expenses.
Employment opportunities and workforce development
Indiana’s veteran unemployment rate stood at 1.7% in 2025, well below the national rate of 3.5%, according to figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics cited by the governor’s office. To build on this success, the state joined the Even Exchange Program, allowing qualified military drivers to waive the commercial driver’s license knowledge test. Coupled with an existing waiver for the military skills test, the program creates a faster route into civilian trucking careers.
The Jobs for Veterans State Grants program continues to provide specialized employment assistance through WorkOne career centers. In fiscal year 2026, Local Veterans’ Employment Representatives delivered nearly 7,000 business services to more than 1,700 Indiana businesses. Disabled Veterans’ Outreach Program specialists managed casework for 697 eligible veterans and spouses, with more than 65% exiting the program into gainful employment.
Helping veterans purchase and grow businesses
In the fall, Braun unveiled “Pass the Guidon: Veteran ETA Cohort,” an initiative designed to prepare veterans and military‑connected leaders to purchase, operate and expand existing Indiana businesses. The program is part of the governor’s Keep IN initiative, which seeks to keep businesses, jobs and talent within the state.
“Our veterans have proven they can lead and succeed in the toughest environments,” Braun said. “These programs ensure they have the financial tools, training and community support to thrive as homeowners, workers and entrepreneurs.”
Why these actions matter
By targeting tax relief, housing stability and workforce development, the Braun administration is addressing three core pillars of a strong community: faith in service, traditional family stability and individual liberty. The policies not only honor the sacrifices of Indiana’s veterans but also reinforce the state’s economic vitality, creating jobs and keeping families rooted in their hometowns.
Local veterans and community leaders have welcomed the announcements, noting that the combined tax, housing and employment measures provide a comprehensive safety net that respects the dignity and contributions of those who served.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
