The Veterans Bill of Rights Act establishes a comprehensive framework to ensure that veterans in New Jersey are informed of their rights and benefits. Under this act, the Commissioner of the Department of Veterans Affairs is mandated to provide each veteran with both a physical and electronic copy of the Veterans Bill of Rights, which outlines various entitlements including fair treatment, access to information about eligible programs, privacy protections, quality care, mental health support, employment and housing assistance, and involvement in care decisions. The act also emphasizes the importance of transparency and proactive communication regarding benefits and services available to veterans.
Additionally, the act requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to maintain a toll-free hotline and a publicly accessible website for veterans to report complaints about compliance with the provisions of the act. The department is obligated to respond to these complaints within 30 days. Furthermore, the Commissioner must submit an annual report to the Senate and Assembly Military and Veterans Affairs Committees detailing the number of complaints received, response times, resolution rates, corrective actions taken, and recommendations for further legislative or administrative actions. This structured approach aims to enhance the support and services provided to veterans in New Jersey.