Bill > H4152

This bill modernizes Chapter 115 of the Massachusetts General Laws, which covers veterans' benefits. Key provisions include: - Expanding the definition of "veteran" to cover more types of military service, including those who served during the Mexican border service, World War I, and certain foreign campaigns. - Enhancing the role and responsibilities of the Secretary of Veterans' Services, including establishing an appeal process for veterans denied benefits. - Creating a commission to investigate veterans' employment discrimination and a program to assist businesses in hiring and retaining veterans. - Providing information to veterans on civilian licensure and certification opportunities related to their military training and skills. - Outlining the duties and responsibilities of local veterans' agents, including proactive outreach to inform residents about available benefits. - Establishing a veterans equality review board to ensure veterans discharged due to sexual orientation, gender identity or expression receive state benefits. - Expanding access to state-operated veterans' homes and updating oversight and administration of these facilities. - Authorizing the establishment of a toll-free hotline for veterans to ask questions and file complaints about benefits and services. The overall goal is to modernize and improve the administration of veterans' benefits and services in Massachusetts.