by Ethan Faverino | Apr 25, 2026 | Economy, News
By Ethan Faverino |
Congressman Abraham Hamadeh (R-AZ-08) announced his letter to Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins to adopt common-sense reforms to the VA Home Loan Guarantee Program.
The goal is to eliminate outdated bureaucratic hurdles, reduce unnecessary costs, and better align the program with today’s competitive housing market so more young veterans can achieve the American Dream of homeownership.
In a formal letter to Secretary Collins, Congressman Hamadeh highlighted the Trump administration’s strong progress in refocusing the Department of Veterans Affairs on its core mission: delivering timely benefits, expanding access to quality care, slashing the claims backlog, and eliminating waste. Building on that momentum, Hamadeh expressed confidence that practical improvements to the home loan program will receive serious consideration.
“As my fellow veteran and Committee member, Congressman Van Orden said in our hearing on the subject, we must find ways to eliminate the unnecessary administrative costs of the VA Home Loan program and better align it with other Federal housing programs,” said Congressman Hamadeh. “My family is in real estate. I am very familiar with housing, and I know the unintended consequences of bureaucratic policies that have little to no protective value and ignore the realities of the marketplace.”
Congressman Hamadeh’s recommendations focus on four key areas where the VA Home Loan program lags behind other federal housing programs, such as FHA and USDA loans:
Ending Origination Fee Stacking: VA rules cap lender origination and administrative fees at 1% of the loan amount, intended to cover all lender labor and overhead. However, veterans report lenders charging the full 1% while adding separate itemized fees for processing, underwriting, and other services. This practice amounts to an unfair cash grab that increases costs for veterans and should be strictly enforced.
Modernizing Underwriting Process: The VA continues to rely heavily on manual underwriting, resulting in average closing times of about 10 business days. In contrast, the FHA has implemented semi-automated systems that can approve straightforward loans in as little as 2 to 7 days. The Mortgage Bankers Association has testified that automated underwriting would accelerate the process and help reduce the perception that VA loans are slower and more cumbersome.
Raising the Seller Concessions Cap: The VA currently limits seller concessions to 4% of the home’s reasonable value. Both FHA and USDA programs allow up to 6%. In competitive markets, this 2-percentage point difference can mean the difference between a veteran’s offer being accepted or denied.
Addressing Appraiser Shortages Through Reasonable Certification Requirements: The VA has identified 436 counties in 31 states facing appraiser shortages that delay loans and drive up costs. A major contributor is the VA’s stringent experience requirement of 3 to 5 years for certification, compared to just 12 to 18 months for FHA and USDA programs. Aligning standards would increase the pool of qualified appraisers, shortening waiting times and lowering fees.
These targeted reforms would remove barriers without compromising program integrity, helping young veterans secure homes more efficiently and affordably. By modernizing the program, VA can better fulfill its promise to those men and women who have sacrificed for our country.
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
by Matthew Holloway | Mar 3, 2026 | News
By Matthew Holloway |
The Arizona House of Representatives passed House Concurrent Memorial 2007, a measure that would designate sections of State Route 69 as a memorial highway honoring U.S. veterans from major conflicts over the past century.
The measure, sponsored by State Representative Quang Nguyen (R-LD1) and passed with bipartisan support, urges the Arizona State Board on Geographic and Historic Names to divide State Route 69 into six equal segments. Each section would be designated to honor veterans of a specific conflict: World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and the “Iraq and Afghanistan War,” as described in the resolution.
Under HCM 2007, the memorial also calls on the Secretary of State to transmit a copy to the chairperson of the state geographic board for implementation.
“State Route 69 is a major corridor in our state. When Arizonans drive it, I want them to see names that mean something,” Nguyen said in a statement. “World War I. World War II. Korea. Vietnam. Desert Storm. Iraq and Afghanistan. Those names stand for sacrifice, courage, and victory.”
Nguyen also said the measure recognizes the service and sacrifices of Arizona veterans across generations, and that the memorial would keep the contributions of those service members visible to motorists throughout the state.
“Arizona owes a debt that can never be fully repaid to the men and women who fought for this country,” Nguyen said. “They answered the call in the world’s darkest hours, on frozen hillsides, in jungles, across deserts, and in the streets and mountains where terrorists tried to make war on Americans. They did not hesitate. They put their lives on the line so the United States would stay free, our families could live in peace, and our flag would never be lowered to an enemy.”
State Route 69 is a significant regional corridor in northern Arizona that runs from Yavapai County’s seat, Prescott, and its suburbs, like Prescott Valley and Dewey-Humboldt, and connects a series of rural communities before meeting I-17 at Cordes Junction.
The House Concurrent Resolution notes in historical context that State Route 69, currently named “Black Canyon Highway,” was declared the first public road in the new Arizona territory in 1864 and utilized by the United States Army as part of its route from the then-critical military installations of Fort Whipple to Fort McDowell.
HCM 2007 now advances as a formal request to the Arizona State Board on Geographic and Historic Names for consideration of the designations.
Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.
by Matthew Holloway | Feb 16, 2026 | News
By Matthew Holloway |
Arizona lawmakers approved a Republican-sponsored bill granting full property tax exemptions to veterans with a 100% service-connected disability, advancing the measure with bipartisan support before it was signed into law last week.
The bill, HB 2792, was approved unanimously by the Arizona House and moved through the Senate as SB 1268 with near-unanimous support before reaching the governor’s desk. The House measure was sponsored by Majority Leader Carbone (R-LD25). Senator David Gowan (R-LD19) sponsored the corresponding legislation in the Senate.
According to Senate records, the sole dissenting vote was cast by Democratic Senator Sally Ann Gonzales, who represents Legislative District 20.
Under the legislation, a veteran determined by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to have a 100% service-connected disability will qualify for a full property tax exemption on their primary home. The exemption also extends to surviving spouses, provided they remain in the residence and do not remarry.
“This bill keeps a simple promise,” Carbone said in a statement. “If a veteran sacrifices their health in service to America, the government should not tax them out of their home. We worked directly with county assessors to ensure the law is clear and properly implemented. Preserving homeownership for those who earned it is central to the House Republican Majority Plan and to preserving the American Dream. This law delivers direct relief, limits government reach, and stands up for veterans and their families.”
The change codifies and expands existing law that previously provided partial exemptions based on disability percentage and income limits. State personal exemption programs already allow a reduction in assessed value for certain disabled veterans, widows, and widowers, and can result in full relief in some cases.
In a post to X, Senate GOP leaders wrote, “Arizona Republicans are fighting to eliminate property taxes for veterans with 100% service-connected disabilities. SB 1268 and HB 2792 deliver full property tax relief on their primary residence. These men and women gave everything for our country. The least we can do is make sure they can stay in their homes.”
County assessors across the state have begun notifying eligible residents of the change and encouraging veterans and surviving spouses to file applications for the exemption through their local assessor’s offices. For example, the Santa Cruz County Assessor’s Office states that the new law is effective for the 2026 tax year and details documentation requirements, including VA disability certification and proof of property ownership.
Applications for individual exemption programs generally must be filed with county assessor offices by the February 28 deadline, according to the Maricopa County Assessor’s Office. This deadline may be extended to September 1 with an approved Exemption Deadline Waiver.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Carbone said, “This is about fairness. It’s about honoring service, and it’s about ensuring the most vulnerable among us can remain in their homes with dignity and integrity.”
The legislation brings Arizona in line with property tax relief policies in several other states that offer full or partial exemptions for disabled veterans on their primary residences.
Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.
by Ethan Faverino | Jan 21, 2026 | News
By Ethan Faverino |
Congressman Abe Hamadeh (AZ-08) has secured a much needed victory for Arizona’s 8th Congressional District, as the U.S. House of Representatives approved more than $7 million in federal funding for critical local projects.
The allocation supports enhanced public safety for first responders and vital legal assistance for veterans, fulfilling the congressman’s commitment to prioritize these community needs.
The funding will benefit several key initiatives across cities in the district, including Peoria, Phoenix, Surprise, Glendale, and Arizona State University (ASU).
Funding Breakdown:
- City of Peoria: $2.85 million for Police Helicopter
These funds will enable the purchase of a police helicopter for the City of Peoria’s Public Safety Aviation Unit. The aircraft will provide rapid air support, strengthen public safety infrastructure, and meet growing demands across the West Valley.
- City of Phoenix: $1.9 million for Law Enforcement Simulator Training Equipment
The allocation supports the purchase of a helicopter training simulator for the Phoenix Police Department’s Air Support Unit, expanding training capabilities for flight crews and improving mission readiness in support of community safety.
- City of Surprise: $999,000 for Police Cruisers
The Surprise Police Department will use these funds to acquire 15 new, fully equipped police vehicles, strengthening its ability to prevent crime, enhance community safety, and support day-to-day operations.
- City of Glendale: $1 million for Police Radio Equipment Upgrades
Glendale Police Department officers will receive modern radio technology to replace aging equipment nearing the end of its life. The upgrades will improve field communications, incorporate officer safety features such as location tracking, and reduce malfunction risks.
- ASU West Campus: $500,000 for Veterans Legal Services Hub
ASU’s Veterans Legal Services Hub will expand free legal assistance to veterans, addressing service-connected criminal charges, discharge upgrades, disability claims, and other legal issues for veterans throughout Arizona.
Local leaders praised the congressman’s advocacy in securing these resources:
“I am grateful that the City of Phoenix is poised to receive these federal funds to modernize how we train our police officers. By equipping the Phoenix Police Department with state-of-the-art training technology, we will improve decision making, reduce operational costs, and strengthen public safety. Investing in advanced simulation technology helps our officers train safely, effectively, and with the highest level of preparedness for situations they may encounter on the job. I urge the Senate to pass this critical funding.”- Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego
“Thank you, Congressman Hamadeh, for your efforts to support local law enforcement here in Glendale. The federal appropriation toward new police radios for the Glendale PD will enhance local capabilities and help make our neighborhoods safer.” – Glendale Mayor Jerry Weiers
“The passage of this earmark is a win for public safety in Surprise. With this funding, we can modernize our police fleet and better support the officers who protect our community. I thank Congressman Abe Hamadeh for his partnership and support.” – Surprise Mayor Kevin Sartor
“Congressman Hamadeh’s support for Peoria’s Aviation Unit demonstrates a real commitment to our city and the safety of our residents. Securing federal support for local priorities like this makes a tangible difference in our police and fire response capabilities. We’re grateful for Congressman Hamadeh’s continued partnership and advocacy on behalf of Peoria in Washington.” – Peoria Mayor Jason Beck
“On behalf of Arizona State University’s more than 24,000 veterans and military-connected learners, I sincerely thank Rep. Abe Hamadeh for his leadership and support of those who have served our nation. This Veterans Legal Services Hub at ASU’s West Valley campus will remove critical legal barriers, helping veterans and their families resolve issues related to service, housing, and justice so they can focus on successful transitions to civilian life.” – Pat Tillman Veterans Center Executive Director Shawn Banzhaf
Congressman Hamadeh, as a veteran himself, emphasized the importance of supporting those who serve our country and giving them the justice and support they deserve.
“I’m proud to have secured more than $7 million in federal funding for critical projects that will strengthen our local law enforcement agencies, allowing for increased training of our law enforcement professionals and giving them the equipment they need to proudly serve our residents,” stated Hamadeh.
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
by Matthew Holloway | Jan 9, 2026 | News
By Matthew Holloway |
Scammers are targeting veterans with fraudulent fees to register for the National Veterans Golden Age Games, prompting a Federal Trade Commission warning that the VA-hosted event is, and always has been, free for entrants to compete and caregivers, coaches, and loved ones to watch.
The alert was issued in a December 19th Consumer Notice published on the agency’s website.
In its alert, the FTC said veterans have reported finding websites or social media pages that purport to charge a fee to register for the Golden Age Games. According to the notice, these offers are fraudulent and not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Registration for the Games is handled only through VA.gov using verified veteran credentials.
Local veterans and staff with the Phoenix VA Health Care System have long participated in the National Veterans Golden Age Games, with the system’s adaptive sports clinic helping prepare competitors for the event. In June, VA officials in Phoenix publicly recognized a team of Arizona veterans who won multiple medals at the Games. This local involvement underscores the importance of protecting veterans from bad actors online who charge illegitimate fees for an event that is officially free.
The National Veterans Golden Age Games is organized by the VA’s Veterans Sports Programs to promote health, wellness, and physical activity among older veterans. The FTC notice states the Games are free for veterans, coaches, caregivers, and spectators, and that official registration for the 2026 Games, scheduled for June 27 through July 2 in Tampa, Florida, will open January 28, 2026. Registration is only available through VA.gov using an ID.me account. Any online offer claiming immediate registration or requiring payment is likely a scam.
FTC Consumer Sentinel Network data show that Arizona residents filed more than 54,000 fraud reports in 2024, including thousands from military consumers, resulting in more than $336 million in reported losses statewide. Fraud involving imposter schemes, such as fake government fees or event registrations, was one of the top complaint categories among Arizona consumers.
The FTC recommends registering only through official VA channels and avoiding sharing login information or personal credentials with third-party websites. Veterans and families encountering potential fraud schemes are encouraged to report them through ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
The Arizona Attorney General’s Office also maintains a scam-reporting portal and consumer alerts for veteran-related fraud, directing residents to file complaints through the AG Office’s website or the FTC’s federal system.
Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.
