Kirk, Durbin, Shimkus Introduce Legislation to Allow for Danville VA Land Transfer

Press Release

U.S. Senators Mark Kirk (R-Ill.) and Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) this week introduced a bill that would allow the Illiana Health Care System of the Department of Veterans Affairs in Danville to convey land to the Danville Area Community College (DACC). The mutually beneficial land transfer would allow the VA to consolidate their property, build a straight fence line and move their aging library to the DACC. The DACC would then be able to renovate the library on the new land they receive.

"The Danville VA provides essential services to our veterans, including assisted living for seniors," Senator Kirk said. "This land transfer will improve the VA campus so our nation's heroes can continue to receive the quality care they deserve."

"This bill will allow both the Danville VA and DACC to improve their respective campuses," said Senator Durbin. "I will continue working with both parties to secure the federal land transfer for the mutual benefit of Danville-area veterans and students."

U.S. Representative John Shimkus (R-Ill.-15) introduced companion legislation before the House adjourned for August recess.

"Given that all parties are in agreement with this land transfer between the VA and DACC," said Rep. Shimkus, "I am pleased that we will now also have bills in both the House and Senate to move forward with."

The Danville campus was the 8th VA facility established in the country and is responsible for servicing 150,000 eligibles veterans for healthcare services. In 2014, 33,000 veterans received their healthcare at Danville. The VA Illiana Healthcare System employs 1,500 men and women who work at five community-based outpatient clinics and the Danville VA campus.

Source