Bill > A5520

This bill establishes the New Jersey Department of Veterans Affairs as a principal department in the state's executive branch, replacing the previous veterans-related functions within the Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs. The bill creates a new department led by a Commissioner of Veterans Affairs, who must be an honorably discharged veteran qualified by training and experience. The Commissioner will have broad responsibilities, including administering veterans' services, maintaining veterans' memorial homes and cemeteries, developing programs to support veterans, and providing information about veteran benefits. Key provisions include creating a financial planning assistance program for disabled veterans, establishing a Gold Star Family Counseling Program, developing a comprehensive veterans benefits registry, and creating advisory councils for veterans' facilities. The bill also transfers existing veterans-related functions and programs from the previous department to the new Department of Veterans Affairs, ensures continuity of existing services, and makes numerous technical amendments to existing statutes to reflect the department's new structure. The bill aims to improve and streamline veterans' services in New Jersey by creating a dedicated department focused specifically on supporting veterans and their families.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A5520