This bill establishes a budget for the Department of Military Affairs and the Department of Veterans Affairs, including specific appropriations for various initiatives aimed at supporting veterans and their families. Key provisions include a one-time appropriation of $800,000 for Holistic Health and Fitness initiatives, funding for staffing Veteran Community Health Navigators, and resources for a veteran suicide prevention program. The bill also modifies accreditation and disclosure requirements for providers of veterans benefits services, mandating that such providers be accredited by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and prohibiting them from guaranteeing specific benefits.
Additionally, the bill requires the commissioner of administration to place a memorial plaque on State Capitol grounds to honor Gold Star and Blue Star families, recognizing their sacrifices. It includes provisions for the design and installation of the plaque, ensuring that the design is selected from public submissions and approved by the commissioner of veterans affairs. The bill amends existing statutes to enhance compliance and enforcement mechanisms related to veterans benefits services, shifting penalties for violations to align with consumer protection laws.
Statutes affected: Introduction: 197.6091