Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB231

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/20/23
• Refer: 4/20/23
• Report Pass: 10/11/23
• Refer: 10/11/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Members of the Council on Veterans Programs.

Impact

By including representatives from educational institutions, AB231 seeks to bridge the gap between higher education and veterans' services, reflecting a growing recognition of the unique needs veterans face when reintegrating into civilian life and navigating educational opportunities. This amendment could potentially lead to more targeted programs and resources tailored for veterans attending technical colleges and universities in Wisconsin.

Summary

Assembly Bill 231 aims to amend the composition of the Council on Veterans Programs within the Department of Veterans Affairs in Wisconsin. The current structure of the council includes representatives from various veterans organizations, who are appointed for one-year terms. This bill proposes to add two new members to the council: a veteran services coordinator from a Wisconsin technical college and another from the University of Wisconsin System. The goal of this addition is to enhance the representation of educational resources and support for veterans within the council's framework.

Contention

The bill also removes several inactive representatives from the council, which may stir discussions among veterans' organizations regarding representation and the influence of inactive groups being removed. These removals could be viewed as necessary to modernize the council but may raise concerns about the balance of interests represented, particularly those of veterans organizations that have historically contributed to veteran advocacy and support. Overall, while the intent of the bill seems to focus on increasing relevant expertise within the council, the implications of excluding certain veteran groups may spark debate among stakeholders.