This bill establishes the Office of the Veteran Advocate within the Executive Branch of the State Government, specifically under the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), while ensuring its independence from departmental supervision. The Veteran Advocate, who must be a veteran and is appointed by the Governor with Senate approval, will oversee the welfare and services provided to veterans. The Advocate's responsibilities include administering the office, investigating complaints, ensuring compliance with regulations, and acting as a liaison between veterans and various agencies. The Advocate is also granted the authority to issue subpoenas and conduct investigations into incidents involving veterans receiving care from the department.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the appropriation of necessary funds from the General Fund to support the Office of the Veteran Advocate's operations. It emphasizes the importance of monitoring state entities responsible for veterans' care and developing corrective action responses to systemic issues identified by the Advocate. The Advocate will serve a maximum of two five-year terms with a minimum salary of $150,000 per year, and will act as an ombudsman for veterans and their families, addressing complaints regarding state and state-funded private services. An annual report detailing the office's activities and recommendations for improving veterans' services will be submitted to the Governor, the Legislature, and the DMVA, and made publicly available.