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Bill

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Bill

A 5109

Establishes "Service Dogs Assisting Veterans Grant Program" in DMVA.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Vicky Flynn and 1 co-sponsor

New Jersey bill creates a state grant program funding service dogs for disabled veterans through the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Military and Veterans' Affairs Committee
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Bill Summary · A 5109

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 5109 establishes a new grant program within New Jersey's Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) to provide service dogs to eligible veterans. The program would fund the procurement, training, and placement of service dogs for veterans with disabilities, particularly those with PTSD, mobility issues, or other service-connected conditions. This represents a state-level expansion of veteran support services beyond federal programs.

Why is this important

Service dogs provide substantial therapeutic and functional benefits to veterans with disabilities, improving mobility, reducing anxiety, and enhancing independence. However, service dog training is expensive (often $15,000-$30,000 per dog), creating a significant financial barrier that limits access. A state-funded grant program would make this proven intervention more accessible to New Jersey's veteran population while potentially reducing reliance on other health services.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding source: The bill does not specify appropriation amounts or identify dedicated funding, raising questions about fiscal impact and sustainability
  • Program administration: Unclear standards exist regarding eligibility criteria, which dogs qualify as "service dogs," and how the DMVA would oversee training standards and vendor selection
  • Scope of coverage: No definition provided regarding which disabilities qualify veterans for grants or whether the program covers all costs or partial reimbursement

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

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