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Bill

A 4884

Establishes "Veterans Helping Veterans" program in DVA.

2026-2027 Regular Session

Establishes the Veterans Helping Veterans program to improve veteran outreach, peer support, and coordination with state agencies and partners to boost access to benefits and servi

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Military and Veterans' Affairs Committee
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Bill Summary · A 4884

Summary of New Jersey Bill A-4884 (Session 222)

Title

Establishes the “Veterans Helping Veterans” program in the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DVA).

Purpose and intent

The bill creates a state program designed to support veterans by leveraging veteran peer networks and resources within New Jersey. The overarching goal is to enhance access to benefits, services, and supports for veterans through coordinated outreach, assistance, and collaboration among veterans and relevant state agencies.

Key provisions and changes

  • Creation of a program: Establishes the “Veterans Helping Veterans” program within the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DVA).
  • Program objectives (typical elements anticipated by such bills, as detailed in the text):
    • Facilitate outreach to veterans to inform them of available benefits, programs, and services.
    • Provide or coordinate peer support, mentorship, and guidance to veterans navigating benefits processes.
    • Connect veterans with state and federal agencies, non-profits, and community resources.
    • Promote volunteerism and engagement of veterans in community and state initiatives.
  • Administration and operations:
    • Likely designation of program leadership within DVA (e.g., coordinator or director) and staff support to implement activities.
    • Allocation of resources, including potential use of grants, partnerships, or collaborations with veterans’ service organizations.
  • Funding and appropriations:
    • The bill may authorize the appropriation of funds to establish, maintain, and operate the program, and to support outreach, training, and activities.
    • If specified, it could outline a funding timeline or reporting requirements related to expenditures.
  • Partnerships and coordination:
    • Emphasizes collaboration between DVA, county veteran service agencies, veterans’ organizations, and community groups to maximize reach and effectiveness.
  • Reporting and accountability:
    • Potential requirements for periodic reporting on program activities, outcomes, and fiscal status to the Legislature or DVA leadership.
  • Definitions and scope:
    • Clarifies terms such as “veteran,” “program,” and other key concepts to ensure consistent application.

Who would be affected

  • Veterans in New Jersey: Primary beneficiaries through improved access to benefits, information, and peer support.
  • DVA and state agencies: Responsible for administration, coordination, and oversight of the program.
  • Veterans’ service organizations and community partners: Potential collaborators and program implementers.
  • Taxpayers/state budget: Through any appropriations or program funding approved in the bill.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Enactment and implementation: The bill would become law upon passage and signature, with implementation steps possibly outlined (e.g., establishment of program, initial outreach efforts).
  • Reporting: If included, there would be periodic reports to the Legislature on program progress, outcomes, and fiscal status.
  • Sunset or review provisions: Some bills include sunset dates or periodic reviews; if present, these would define future evaluation timelines.

Potential impacts and considerations

  • Accessibility of benefits: A structured outreach and peer-support program could reduce barriers for veterans seeking benefits and services.
  • Coordination: Enhanced coordination among state agencies and veteran organizations could improve service delivery efficiency.
  • Funding needs: Successful implementation depends on dedicated funding and sustainable resources.
  • Measurement of success: Effectiveness would hinge on clear metrics for outreach reach, benefit uptake, and veteran satisfaction.

If you have access to the bill’s full text, I can extract exact language and provide a more detailed, line-by-line summary of each provision, funding amounts, and specific timelines.

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

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