The bill amends Section 35B.3 of the Iowa Code to expand the qualifications for serving on a county commission of veteran affairs. Previously, only individuals defined as veterans could serve on the commission. The new language allows for the inclusion of Iowa residents who are either current members of the Iowa National Guard or an Iowa unit of the reserve forces of the United States, provided they have satisfactory service as confirmed by a letter of recommendation from their unit commander. Additionally, former members of these forces who were discharged under honorable conditions are also eligible, as evidenced by their DD214 or a recommendation letter.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that if possible, each commission member should have served in a different military branch, although this does not exclude those who have served in multiple branches. This change not only broadens the pool of potential members for the commission but also extends the eligibility to serve as an executive director for a county commission of veteran affairs to these individuals.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 35B.3