The bill HB 1415-FN establishes a special veterans license plate program in New Hampshire, creating the "New Hampshire First for Veterans Number Plate Fund" to support veterans, service members, and their families. This fund will be nonlapsing and continually appropriated, ensuring that proceeds from the sale of the special plates are allocated to various programs addressing issues such as employment, mental health, and homelessness among veterans. The bill also amends existing laws to ensure that funds from both the conservation number plate fund and the new veterans fund remain nonlapsing and continually appropriated. A $60 fee for the special plates and a $30 annual renewal fee will be implemented, with specific allocations for departments and initiatives that support veterans.

Additionally, the bill creates the New Hampshire First for Veterans Authority, a nonprofit entity focused on ending veteran homelessness and improving access to healthcare and employment opportunities. The authority will be governed by a board of directors and will manage the New Hampshire First for Veterans Trust Fund, which will be used exclusively for program purposes. The bill includes provisions for the authority to adopt bylaws, oversee fund expenditures, and conduct audits, while also allowing for the hiring of staff and engagement of independent contractors. Key insertions in the bill include the establishment of the trust fund and administrative fund, while it deletes previous restrictions on fund transfers, enhancing flexibility in managing resources for veteran-related programs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 261:97-c
As Amended by the House: 261:97-c, 6:12
HB1415 text: 261:97-c