New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S3261

Introduced
5/16/24  

Caption

Creates Veterans' Memorial Homes Oversight Board.

Impact

The bill outlines the board's responsibilities to review complaints related to various aspects of care, including any reported incidents of abuse—whether physical, verbal, or mental—as well as issues regarding the dignity of residents, quality of care, and overall resident welfare. Upon identification of such issues, the board will have the authority to make recommendations for corrective actions and improvements. This legislation is seen as a significant step towards enhancing the accountability of veterans’ care facilities in New Jersey, fostering a system that prioritizes the rights and dignity of residents.

Summary

Senate Bill 3261 proposes the establishment of the Veterans' Memorial Homes Oversight Board in New Jersey, aimed at ensuring the proper oversight of veteran care facilities. This independent board will not be governed by the Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs, allowing it to operate independently in its review of policies, activities, and complaints related to veterans' memorial homes, specifically in Menlo Park, Vineland, and Paramus. One of the primary roles of this board is to examine reports of violations and complaints to identify systemic issues within these homes and offer recommendations for improvement.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise concerning the board's authority and independence, particularly related to its operational oversight. Stakeholders could debate the adequacy of the proposed structure in handling complaints effectively. Critics might argue that legislative oversight alone does not sufficiently address deeper systemic risks, advocating instead for more comprehensive reform of veterans’ services beyond mere oversight. Furthermore, concerns may be raised regarding the balance of power between state oversight and the operational autonomy of veterans' memorial homes.

Companion Bills

NJ A4186

Same As Creates Veterans' Memorial Homes Oversight Board.

Previously Filed As

NJ A4186

Creates Veterans' Memorial Homes Oversight Board.

NJ S3262

Establishes program for recruitment, training, and retention of health care professionals in veterans memorial homes; appropriates $370,000.

NJ S3168

Requires DMVA establish veterans memorial home emergency hotline.

NJ A4187

Requires DMVA establish veterans memorial home emergency hotline.

NJ AJR91

Calls upon Congress to release funds to offset COVID-19 related losses to DMVA's veteran memorial homes, and to fully fund rebuilding two veteran memorial homes.

NJ AJR22

Calls upon Congress to release funds to offset COVID-19 related losses to DMVA's veteran memorial homes, and to fully fund rebuilding two veteran memorial homes.

NJ A1297

Requires DMVA establish veterans facility in Ocean or Monmouth County.

NJ A5119

Requires DMVA establish veterans facility in Ocean or Monmouth County.

NJ A4183

Establishes program for recruitment, training, and retention of health care professionals in veterans memorial homes; appropriates $370,000.

NJ S3998

Creates Military and Veterans Affairs Oversight Board.

Similar Bills

NJ A4186

Creates Veterans' Memorial Homes Oversight Board.

NJ AR170

Establishes special committee of General Assembly entitled "New Jersey Veterans' Memorial Homes Investigation Committee."

NJ AR26

Establishes special committee of General Assembly entitled "New Jersey Veterans' Memorial Homes Investigation Committee."

NJ A1297

Requires DMVA establish veterans facility in Ocean or Monmouth County.

NJ A5119

Requires DMVA establish veterans facility in Ocean or Monmouth County.

CA AB376

Student loan servicing.

CA SB852

Searches: supervised persons.

NJ A3203

Creates sexual assault prevention and response program and coordinator for service members.