Requires DMVA notify certain veteran organizations and county officers and municipal registers of names of persons buried or cremated in State veteran cemeteries.
The bill amends existing statutes concerning the responsibilities of the DMVA regarding personal information related to deceased veterans. By creating a requirement for regular reporting, S2361 strengthens the link between the DMVA and veteran organizations, thereby enhancing the ability of these organizations to fulfill their missions. However, it also imposes an administrative duty on the DMVA, which may require additional resources for effective implementation. The requirement for a representative's waiver before releasing burial information is intended to protect the privacy of the deceased's family.
Senate Bill S2361 requires the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs (DMVA) to provide a monthly report to appropriate veteran organizations and county officers of the names of persons who have been buried or cremated in State veteran cemeteries. This legislative measure aims to enhance communication between state authorities and veteran organizations, ensuring that vital information regarding veterans' final resting places is shared regularly. This is particularly important for the support of veteran communities, allowing organizations to pay their respects and possibly assist the families left behind.
Overall, S2361 is positioned to improve the flow of information between state entities and veteran organizations, enhancing the way veterans are honored after death. As this bill is deliberated, the discussions surrounding its implications for privacy and organizational responsibilities will likely play a critical role in shaping any amendments or adjustments moving forward.
One notable aspect of S2361 is the provision that mandates consent in the form of a waiver from a representative of the deceased before information regarding burial or cremation can be released. This could be a point of contention among those who feel that the information should be publicly accessible, thus facilitating the remembrance and honor of veterans without barriers. Conversely, advocates for user privacy suggest that such consent is essential to respect the wishes of families during their time of loss.