This bill appropriates funds for the Department of Veterans' Affairs in North Dakota for the biennium from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027. It includes a total appropriation of $5,007,966, which encompasses base level enhancements and specific allocations for various programs, such as transportation grants and service dogs for veterans. Notably, the bill introduces a new funding line for a veterans' home cemetery and outlines one-time funding for homeless veterans' services. Additionally, it specifies that certain appropriations are exempt from unexpended fund provisions, allowing them to continue into the next biennium.

The bill also amends several sections of the North Dakota Century Code, primarily shifting oversight and administrative responsibilities from the "administrative committee on veterans' affairs" to the governor. Key amendments include the requirement that the commissioner of veterans' affairs be a bona fide resident and qualified veteran, and the establishment of a governing board to advise the governor on veterans' home administration. The bill emphasizes the governor's role in the oversight of veterans' affairs and modifies the committee's responsibilities to focus on advising the governor rather than direct administration. An emergency clause is included for immediate effect on certain provisions.

Statutes affected:
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for House Appropriations - Human Resources Division Committee: 37-15-03, 37-15-07, 37-15-16, 37-18-01, 37-18-07, 37-18-12, 37-18.1-03
Enrollment: 37-15-03, 37-15-07, 37-15-16, 37-18-01, 37-18-07, 37-18-12, 37-18.1-03