Senate Bill 1685 proposes amendments to section 41-608 of the Arizona Revised Statutes concerning the Veterans' Donations Fund (VDF). The bill aims to prevent the Arizona Department of Veterans Services (ADVS) from denying or refusing to award a VDF grant to an applicant solely on the basis that they have previously received a grant. Additionally, the bill mandates that ADVS must award at least $2,000,000 or the balance of the VDF annually, whichever is less.

The bill also includes provisions for increased transparency and accountability. ADVS would be required to publish a list of grant recipients on its website. Starting from fiscal year 2025-2026, ADVS must submit an annual report detailing the number of veterans who have received services through organizations that were awarded grants. This report is to be submitted to the Governor, the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and a copy to the Secretary of State. The bill also makes technical changes and is set to become effective on the general effective date.

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