Bill > H3859

This bill modifies veterans' benefits regulations in Massachusetts by updating two key sections of Chapter 115 of the General Laws. First, it establishes more specific residency requirements for veterans and their dependents seeking benefits, stipulating that veterans must have resided in the state for at least one day before applying, and dependents must have continuously lived in Massachusetts for three years prior to their application. Additionally, the veteran on whose behalf the dependent is applying must have also resided continuously in the state for three years. Second, the bill redefines the application process for veterans' benefits, designating the local Veterans Service Officer as the primary administrator responsible for processing applications. The Veterans Service Officer must now comprehensively document and certify each application to the Commonwealth, including detailed information such as recipients' names, benefit amounts, reasons for granting benefits, residency dates, veteran service details (including specific units or organizations), and the relationship between the veteran and dependent. These changes aim to streamline and standardize the veterans' benefits application and approval process at the local and state levels.

Military Affairs and Security

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3859