This bill establishes a veterans service organization grant program administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs, aimed at providing matching funds to veterans service organizations. These funds are specifically designated for employing staff who assist veterans with claims. The bill defines a veterans service organization in accordance with federal regulations and mandates the department to create necessary application procedures, forms, and administrative guidelines for the program's implementation.
Additionally, the bill creates a veterans service organization grant fund within the state treasury, which will consist of appropriated moneys and other funds accepted by the department. An appropriation of $250,000 is allocated from the general fund for the fiscal year 2025-2026 to support this grant fund. The bill ensures that any unencumbered or unobligated moneys at the end of a fiscal year will remain available for future expenditures related to the program.