This bill seeks to amend the definition of "veteran" in New Jersey law to include "discharged LGBTQ veterans," specifically those who were discharged under less than honorable conditions due to their sexual orientation, gender identity, or related conduct. The new legal language defines a "discharged LGBTQ veteran" and mandates the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) to establish a review process to determine eligibility for this classification, which includes creating a uniform method for verifying a veteran's status and issuing an eligibility form upon verification. This initiative aims to address historical injustices faced by LGBTQ individuals in the military and restore the rights and benefits of an estimated 100,000 LGBTQ veterans who were unjustly discharged.

Additionally, the bill incorporates the new category of discharged LGBTQ veterans into various sections of New Jersey law, ensuring they are recognized alongside other veterans. It reflects a commitment to inclusivity and acknowledges the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals in the military. By updating legal definitions and establishing a review process, the bill aims to ensure that discharged LGBTQ veterans can reclaim their rightful state benefits, thereby enhancing support for veterans and their families in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 10:5-39, 13:1L-12.1, 18A:36-13.2, 18A:62-4.1, 18A:75A-3, 34:15D-4, 38A:3-6.3, 39:3-10, 39:3-29.3, 40:37A-114.1, 40:61-22.20, 40A:9-78.2, 40A:12A-20.2, 43:15A-6, 43:16A-11.7, 45:19A-4, 46:8-51, 52:27D-517, 52:32-50, 53:5A-3, 54:4-8.10