The proposed bill, SB1685, amends the Arizona Revised Statutes regarding the Veterans' Donations Fund (VDF) by introducing several key provisions. It prohibits the Arizona Department of Veterans Services (ADVS) from denying or refusing to award grants to applicants solely based on their status as previous grant recipients. Additionally, the bill mandates that ADVS must award a minimum of $2,000,000 or the remaining balance of the VDF annually, whichever is less. Furthermore, it requires ADVS to publish a list of grant recipients on its website and to submit an annual report starting in fiscal year 2025-2026 detailing the number of veterans served by organizations that received grants.

In contrast to current law, which does not explicitly address the treatment of previous grant recipients or set a minimum grant amount, this bill aims to enhance transparency and accessibility of funding for veterans' programs. The new requirements for reporting and publishing grant recipient information are also significant changes intended to improve accountability within the ADVS. Overall, SB1685 seeks to ensure that veterans have continued access to funding and support through the VDF.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-608
Senate Engrossed Version: 41-608