Existing law requires the Director of the Department of Veterans Services to appoint: (1) a Deputy Director for Programs and Services; and (2) a Deputy Director for Health and Wellness. (NRS 417.030) Section 1 of this bill changes the titles of the deputy directors appointed by the Director to: (1) the Deputy Director of Benefits; and (2) the Deputy Director of Healthcare Services. Existing law requires the Director to assist veterans, certain members presently serving in the Armed Forces of the United States and certain persons related to veterans in preparing, submitting and presenting claims against the United States and any state for adjusted compensation and other benefits to which the person is entitled. (NRS 417.090) Section 2 of this bill removes the obligation of the Director to assist such persons in preparing, submitting and presenting claims for adjusted compensation, while leaving in place the requirement that the Director assist such persons with other types of claims. Existing law requires the Director to ensure that each person who participates as an advocate for veterans in a volunteer program sponsored by the Department is assigned a veterans service officer employed by the Department that will offer assistance to the volunteer. (NRS 417.090) Section 2 removes that requirement and instead requires the Director to provide each such volunteer with: (1) the opportunity to participate in annual training; and (2) mentorship upon request. Existing law requires the Director to provide semiannual training to each veterans service officer employed by the Department. (NRS 417.090) Section 2: (1) increases the frequency of such training to quarterly; and (2) additionally requires the Director to offer such training to representatives of veterans service organizations who are accredited by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 417.030, 417.090
Reprint 1: 417.030, 417.090
As Enrolled: 417.030, 417.090
BDR: 417.030, 417.090