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HSB 28

A bill for an act relating to county commissions of veteran affairs.

2025-2026 Regular Session

HSB 28 enhances training and accountability for county veteran affairs leaders, ensuring better support and services for veterans in Iowa through stricter compliance measures.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 250.
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Bill Summary · HSB 28

Summary of HSB 28 - County Commissions of Veteran Affairs

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HSB 28
Title: A bill for an act relating to county commissions of veteran affairs
Status: Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 250
Introduced: January 15, 2025
Classification: Proposed bill
Subject: County veteran affairs commissions, veterans affairs

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HSB 28 is to amend existing regulations concerning county commissions of veteran affairs in Iowa. The bill aims to enhance the accountability and training requirements for executive directors or administrators of these commissions, ensuring that they are adequately prepared to serve veterans and comply with federal and state standards.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several important amendments to the Iowa Code:

  1. Training Compliance Reporting:

    • Section 35A.5 is amended to require county commissions to report:
      • Compliance with training requirements under Section 35B.6 for the previous fiscal year.
      • The total number of hours of veterans’ services provided by the executive director or administrator during the previous fiscal year.

  2. Certification and Training Requirements:

    • Section 35B.6 is amended to stipulate that:
      • Upon hiring, the executive director or administrator must complete a certification course as directed by the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs.
      • They must also obtain a personal identification verification card to access the veterans benefits management system.
      • If certification or the verification card is not obtained within one year, the individual will be removed from office, although extensions may be granted under extenuating circumstances.

  3. Continuing Education:

    • The executive director or administrator must meet ongoing education requirements set by both the national association of county veterans service officers and the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs.
    • Failure to maintain certification will also result in removal from office.

Impact

The bill is expected to impact:
- County Commissions of Veteran Affairs: These entities will have stricter oversight and accountability measures in place, ensuring that their leadership is well-trained and compliant with necessary regulations.
- Veterans: Improved training and service provision may enhance the quality of support and resources available to veterans at the county level.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 15, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to Veterans Affairs.
  • January 16, 2025: Subcommittee meeting held.
  • January 21, 2025: Subcommittee recommends passage.
  • February 5, 2025: Committee report recommending amendment and passage; committee vote results: Yeas 16, Nays 0, Excused 1.
  • February 6, 2025: Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 250.

This summary provides a clear understanding of HSB 28, its provisions, and its potential effects on county veteran affairs in Iowa.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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