The proposed bill establishes a grant program administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) to support municipalities and nonprofit organizations in capital expenditure projects aimed at placing or maintaining war or veterans' memorials or monuments. Starting in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2028, the DVA will provide grants funded by up to $2 million in state general obligation bonds. The bill mandates that by January 1, 2027, the DVA must develop eligibility criteria for grant applicants, create application forms and deadlines, and make this information publicly available on its website.
Additionally, the bill requires the DVA to submit an annual report to the Veterans' and Military Affairs Committee beginning January 1, 2028. This report will include data on the number of grant applications received, the number of grants awarded, and a list of the municipalities and nonprofits that received funding. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, and includes provisions for the issuance and repayment of the bonds in accordance with existing statutory requirements.