Bill > SB67

This bill revises the structure and operations of Alabama's State Board of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Veterans Affairs, shifting significant administrative authority from the board to the commissioner. The bill modifies board membership by allowing the Governor more flexibility in appointing representatives, requiring board members to represent diverse veteran communities, and limiting members to two consecutive terms. The board's role will transition from direct administrative control to an advisory and oversight capacity, with responsibilities including advising the commissioner, developing policy recommendations, and assisting veterans. The commissioner will now have expanded powers, including setting board member per diem, appointing personnel, and making administrative decisions previously requiring board approval. The bill also clarifies the commissioner's appointment process, specifying that they will serve at the Governor's pleasure and must be a veteran with active duty experience. Additionally, the changes affect how state veterans homes are managed, with the department and commissioner gaining more direct control over operations, contracts, admissions, and budget processes. These modifications aim to streamline veterans' services administration and provide more agile, responsive leadership in supporting Alabama's veteran community.

Military Affairs and Security

https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/bill-search