The bill amends Section 30-24-10 of the General Laws regarding admission to the Rhode Island Veterans Home. It changes the eligibility requirement for veterans from having served a minimum of ninety days to a minimum of two years, while also expanding the definition of eligible veterans to include those who have earned a campaign ribbon or expeditionary medal for service in any conflict or undeclared war. Additionally, it establishes a priority admission system where, one year after the bill's passage, war veterans will be given precedence over non-war veterans. The director of the office of veterans services is granted authority to waive certain requirements for veterans who can provide clear and convincing evidence of combat service.

The bill also mandates the maintenance of two separate waiting lists for war veterans and non-war veterans, stating that no non-war veteran may be admitted until the waiting list of war veterans is depleted. Veterans on the waiting list on the effective date of this subsection shall remain eligible for admission. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5052: 30-24-10