OK SB543

Department of Veterans Affairs is authorized to construct, establish, administer, operate and maintain a State Veterans' Cemetery System consisting of one or more cemeteries serving veterans, spouses, and eligible dependents of Oklahoma veterans.

Department may employ staff, purchase equipment and supplies necessary for cemetery operations, and charge fees for interment of eligible spouses and dependents.

Department shall promulgate rules for burial eligibility and cemetery standards, develop expansion plans, establish necessary accounts, apply for federal funding from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and accept donations of real or personal property.

Department may seek, accept and expend private, state, and federal funds for cemetery establishment, construction, maintenance, and operation, and may accept land donations or utilize Department-owned land.

Act becomes effective November 1, 2017.