The bill SB67 Enrolled amends the Code of Alabama 1975 to transfer the authority to appoint the Commissioner of the State Department of Veterans Affairs from the State Board of Veterans Affairs to the Governor, allowing the Commissioner to serve at the Governor's discretion. This change shifts the board's role to an oversight capacity, where it will advise the Commissioner on veterans' matters, develop policy recommendations, and ensure that its composition reflects the diversity of the veteran community. The bill also introduces term limits for board members, stipulating that they cannot serve more than two consecutive terms, and allows the Governor to appoint members in specific circumstances, such as when an organization fails to nominate candidates.

Furthermore, the bill streamlines the governance structure by removing the requirement for board approval in various instances, thereby granting the Commissioner direct authority to appoint assistant commissioners and veteran service officers. It clarifies the department's responsibilities regarding state veterans homes, including the management of funding and the establishment of rules for admissions and discharges. The bill also mandates annual reporting to the Governor on the department's activities and financials, while ensuring that residents of state veterans homes are responsible for their maintenance costs. Overall, these amendments aim to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of services provided to veterans and their families in Alabama.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 31-5-2, 31-5-3, 31-5-5, 31-5-6, 31-5-7, 31-5-8, 31-5-9, 31-5-10, 31-5-13, 31-5A-3, 31-5A-4, 31-5A-5, 31-5A-6, 31-5A-7, 31-5A-8, 31-5A-9, 31-5A-10
Engrossed: 31-5-2, 31-5-3, 31-5-5, 31-5-6, 31-5-7, 31-5-8, 31-5-9, 31-5-10, 31-5-13, 31-5A-3, 31-5A-4, 31-5A-5, 31-5A-6, 31-5A-7, 31-5A-8, 31-5A-9, 31-5A-10
Enrolled: 31-5-2, 31-5-3, 31-5-5, 31-5-6, 31-5-7, 31-5-8, 31-5-9, 31-5-10, 31-5-13, 31-5A-3, 31-5A-4, 31-5A-5, 31-5A-6, 31-5A-7, 31-5A-8, 31-5A-9, 31-5A-10