State Representative Pat Conway of Saint Joseph says one of his priorities this legislative session is making sure Missouri veterans are taken care of. Conway says new funding is needed and it should not all come from gaming revenue. Casino operators say taking care of veterans is everyone’s responsibility, and Conway agrees.

Conway, a Vietnam veteran, asked to serve on the House Veterans Committee because of the problems facing the state’s seven veterans homes. They all have a waiting list, they need better maintenance, and more homes are needed. He says no new revenue source has been recommended, and in an election year with a tight economy, such a recommendation is not likely.