Bill > HB2143

This bill establishes new requirements for staff at local veterans service offices across Tennessee, aiming to improve the services provided to veterans. It clarifies that county legislative bodies and municipal governing bodies will hire staff for these offices, with guidance from the department of veterans services. Employees who are veterans will be known as "county veterans service officers" (CVSOs), and those who are not will be "county veterans service representatives" (CVSRs). The bill mandates that all staff undergo background checks, with a preference given to veterans, especially combat veterans, for positions requiring accreditation from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Furthermore, all CVSOs and CVSRs must obtain VA accreditation within six months of being hired, or they will be removed from their positions. They will also be required to complete ongoing training to maintain their accreditations and meet performance standards, with failure to do so potentially leading to removal. The bill encourages local governments to adequately staff their veteran offices and designates a director of veterans services in offices with three or more CVSOs or CVSRs, or in offices with a single CVSO. The commissioner of veterans services will annually publish guidance on recommended staffing levels and establish minimum salary rates and paid hours for CVSOs and CVSRs, including a probationary rate. The department of veterans services will also offer salary grants to help local offices meet state staffing requirements and minimum salary rates, and may provide additional grants for training and certifications, as well as annual bonuses for high-performing staff. The department can also partner with nationally chartered veterans service organizations for training and data system access, and provide them with funds to promote veteran services. Finally, all state funding for local veterans service offices must be used solely for salaries, benefits, supplies, and training, and these office budgets must be published separately in the political subdivision's annual budget.

Government Affairs

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/Default?BillNumber=HB2143&ga=114