This bill amends R.S.26:8-63 to require the State registrar to furnish one free certified copy of a birth certificate to military veterans upon request. The definition of a "veteran" is specified in the bill as any individual discharged or released from service in any branch of the Armed Forces of the United States, or a discharged member of the American Merchant Marine who served during World War II and is eligible for federal veterans benefits, excluding those discharged under dishonorable circumstances.
Additionally, the bill maintains existing provisions that allow for the issuance of free copies of various certificates for specific purposes, such as public pension claims and military enlistment. It also clarifies that all other copies of the birth certificate requested by veterans will be subject to the regular statutory fee. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon enactment, and the Commissioner of Health is tasked with promulgating rules and regulations to implement its provisions.