Bill > HB1

This bill establishes a new Delaware Department of Veterans Affairs led by a cabinet-level Secretary, which will be initially housed administratively within the Department of State until a planned transition to full independence by July 1, 2030. The Secretary, who must be a veteran, will be appointed by the Governor and will have broad powers to administer veterans' programs, including developing strategies for elder care, operating veterans' memorial cemeteries, maintaining veterans' service records, and administering the Delaware Veterans Trust Fund. The existing Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs will continue to operate but will serve in an advisory capacity to the new Secretary, providing oversight of the Delaware State Veterans Home and recommending policy. The bill mandates that the Department prioritize hiring veterans and will maintain existing staff from the current Commission and Office of Veterans Services, ensuring they retain their current salary, seniority, and benefits. A key requirement is the development of a detailed Transition Report outlining the fiscal and operational details of separating the new Department from the Department of State, which must be approved by the General Assembly through a concurrent resolution. The legislation aims to enhance and consolidate veterans' services in Delaware while maintaining continuity of existing programs and support for veterans.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Military Affairs and Security

https://legis.delaware.gov/BillDetail?LegislationId=141733