Department of Veterans Affairs?

If passed, HB 636 would establish a department of veterans affairs to coordinate and oversee veterans benefits and services offered by organizations within the state of New Hampshire.

According to the bill, the administrative and executive direction of the department would be under the direction of a commissioner who would be appointed by the governor and council.

Opponents of the bill argue there already exists an Office of Veterans Services, which is charged with the same functions as the proposed department. They contend the bill would incur an unnecessary increase in cost to New Hampshire taxpayers.

Supporters, however, counter that the Office of Veterans Services is under-performing. They note New Hampshire boasts one of the fastest growing veteran homeless populations compared with declining rates nationwide, which further demonstrates the need for more formal coordination and oversight.

Do you think NH should establish a department of veterans affairs? Join the discussion on Facebook or comment below. Comments will be included in a summary of this discussion and presented as testimony at the House public hearing on this bill. Only comments from NH residents will be counted, so please indicate if you are from NH in your response.