This bill addresses the eligibility of certain veterans and former members of the armed forces for state-funded benefits, services, or programs in Minnesota. It stipulates that individuals who have forfeited their entitlement to federal benefits, as determined by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, will not qualify for state assistance. Additionally, the bill proposes the discontinuation of the Environmental Hazards Information and Assistance Program for veterans, which previously provided support and information regarding health issues related to exposure to chemical agents.

The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 196.021, to include a deputy commissioner for administration alongside the existing deputy commissioner for veteran services and the deputy commissioner for veteran health care. It also includes a new section, [197.792], which explicitly states the disqualification of veterans who have forfeited federal benefits from receiving state-funded support. Furthermore, the bill repeals several sections of Minnesota Statutes, including those related to the Environmental Hazards Information and Assistance Act, effectively eliminating the program and its associated definitions and duties.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 196.021