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NJ S4376
Bill
Status
Passed
9/11/2025
Primary Sponsor
Joseph Vitale
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AI Summary
- Establishes the Department of Veterans Affairs as a new principal department in the Executive Branch of New Jersey state government, separate from the Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs
- Creates the position of Commissioner of Veterans Affairs, who must be an honorably discharged veteran appointed by the Governor with Senate consent, to oversee veterans' memorial homes, cemeteries, homeless shelters, and regional Veteran Service Offices
- Transfers all veterans-related functions, programs, councils, and commissions from the Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs to the new department, including the Blind Veterans' Allowance Program, Paraplegic and Hemiplegic Allowance Program, veterans' loan authority, and tuition assistance programs
- Establishes the New Jersey Commission on Veterans Benefits to develop a five-year statewide strategic plan for veterans' services, along with advisory councils for veterans' memorial homes, cemeteries, and homeless shelters (Veterans Haven North and South)
- Creates new programs including the Gold Star Family Counseling Program, Homeless Veterans Grant Program, Commission on Women Veterans, and assistance for veterans seeking to change discharge status related to sexual orientation or gender identity
Legislative Description
Establishes Department of Veterans Affairs.
Bills and Joint Resolutions Signed by the Governor
Last Action
Approved P.L.2025, c.139.
9/11/2025
Committee Referrals
Budget and Appropriations6/19/2025
Military and Veterans' Affairs3/24/2025
Full Bill Text
No bill text available