De

American Veterans was chartered by Congress on July 23. 1947

Department of New Jersey Constitution and By-Laws AMVETS National Constitution and By-Laws AMVETS National District One Constitution and By-Laws AMVETS Department of New Jersey Constitution and By-Laws AMVETS Service Foundation of New Jersey Constitution and By-Laws New Jersey AMVETS Convention Rules

AMVETS License Plates Below, find links to forms for ordering New Jersey AMVETS License Plates for your vehicle. NJMVC Form and Instructions MUST BE A MEMBER OF AMVETS TO APPLY NOT AVAILABLE FOR LEASED VEHICLES Branch Specific Plates can be ordered by contacting NJMVC Special Plates Unit 609-292-6500 ext. 5061 *Plates will be mailed to your home. There is no pickup at the NJDMV required*

Veterans In Need of Assistance CRISIS LINE 800-273-8255

Veterans Crisis Line/National Suicide Prevention is now available by dialing 988 - then press 1 This provides easy access to veteran-specific mental health support. **the previous number 800-273-8255 remains active as well** Angelic Home Health Care 609-418-4948 (Atlantic/Cape May/Cumberland Counties) E-mail: info@angelic.health Atlantic County Special Registry 609-909-7847 www.acsnr.org Caregiver Support 855-260-3274 yvww.caregiver.va.gov Catholic Charities 856-261-1177 (Atlantic/Cape May Counties) www.catholiccharitiescamden.org DRNJ (Disability Rights New Jersey) Intake Unit 800-922-7233/609-292-9742 www.DRNJ.org E-mail advocate@disabilityrightsnj.org Heroes on the Water Programs 214-295-4541 www.heroesonthewater.org E-mail: info@heroesonthewater.org Jewish Family Service 609-822-1108 (Atlantic & Cape May Counties) Meadowview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center 609-645-5955 Accepts eligible Veterans for all levels of care including long-term and end of life New Jersey Department of Military Affairs 609-530-4600 www.nj.gov/military New Jersey Mission of Honor for Cremains of American Veterans 201-906-1592 www.njsmissionofhonor.org Operation First Response - Serving Wounded Heroes and Families 888-289-0280 E-mail: info@operationfirstresponse.org Superior Court of New Jersey 609-421-6100 Veterans Administration 800-827-1000 www.va.gov VA Health Benefits 877-222-8387 Veterans Haven South - transitional housing 609-561-0269/609-567-5806 Veterans Multi-Service Center HQ- 215-923-2600 South Jersey/Delaware 856-293-7321 Visiting Angels Home Care 609-641-7200 VETERANS SERVICE OFFICER - Fred Vineyard 609-526-4356/609-626-2675

Veterans Programs and Services

Veteran Affairs: http://www.va.gov/ Branches of the Federal Government The Executive Branch - The White House: www.whitehouse.gov The Legislative Branch - The United States Senate: www.senate.gov The Legislative Branch - The United States House Of Representative: www.house.gov Military Branches The Pentagon: www.defenselink.mil/pubs/pentagon The United States Army: www.army.mil The United States Navy: www.navy.mil The United States Marine Corps: www.usmc.mil The United States Air Force: www.af.mil The United States Coast Guard: www.uscg.mil The American Merchant Marines: www.usmm.org Military Academies United State Military Academy: www.usma.edu United States Naval Academy: www.nadn.navy.mil United States Merchant Marine Academy: www.usmma.edu United States Coast Guard Academy: www.cga.edu United States Air Force Academy: www.usafa.af.mil United States Air Force ROTC: www.afoats.af.mil General / Misc Resources Federal Executive Branch Resources: www.loc.gov/global/executive/fed.htm Federal Judiciary Branch Resources: www.uscourts.gov Memorial and Tribute Web Sites / Military Memorials: Korean War Veterans Memorial: www.nps.gov/kowa Vietnam Veterans Memorial: www.nps.gov/vive/index.htm National World War II Memorial: www.wwiimemorial.comArizona Memorial Museum Association www.nps.gov/usar United State Air Force Museum: www.wpafb.af.mil/museum Arlington National Cemetery: www.arlingtoncemetery.org American Memorial Park: www.nps.gov/amme/main.htm Societies Congressional Medal Of Honor Society: www.cmohs.org

State Department Officers and Trustees

Service Foundation Officers and Trustees

2024-2025

NJ Certified Service Officers

Courtney Johnson Nutley Health and Veteran Bureau Township of Nutley, NJ 973-284-4976 Monday- Friday 9:30- 3:00pm Robert L. Frolow, Veterans Services Officer 201 S. Shore Road, Ground Floor Northfield, NJ 08225 Phone (609) 677-5700 Fax: (609) 677-5705 Fred Vineyard, Veterans Service Officer 415 Shore rd Somers point NJ 08244 For Appointment, Please e-mail Fav1126005@aol.com Veterans Multi-Service Center New Jersey VMC serving Southern NJ 616 Landis Ave, Suite 2, Vineland, NJ 856-293-7321 VA Medical Center Locations We are pleased to produce the following information to assist all veterans in locating VA Medical Care facilities and New Jersey Veterans Memorial Homes.

Hospitals East Orange VA Medical Center 385 Tremont Avenue, East Orange, NJ 07018 (973) 676-1000 Lyons VA Medical Center 151 Knollcroft Road, Lyons, NJ 07939 (908) 647-0180 Philadelphia VA Medical Center 3900 Woodland Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19104 (800) 949-1001 Wilmington VA Medical Center 1601 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, DE 19805 (302) 994-2511 New Jersey Veterans Nursing Homes Veterans Memorial Home - Menlo Park 132 Evergreen Road, Menlo Park, NJ 08818-3013 (732) 452-4100 (Main Telephone Number) (732) 454-4272 (Menlo Park Admissions Officer) Veterans Memorial Home - Paramus 1 Veterans Drive, Paramus, NJ 07652 (201) 634-8200 (Main Telephone Number) (201) 634-8435 (Paramus Admissions Officer) Veterans Memorial Home - Vineland 524 North West Boulevard, Vineland, NJ 08360-2895 (856) 405-4200 (Main Telephone Number) (856) 405-4261 (Vineland Admissions Officer) Meadowview Nursing Home 235 Dolphin Avenue, Northfield, NJ 08255 (609) 645-5955

Filing a claim with the Veterans Administration Step 1: Consult With Your National Service Officer Talk with your Service Officer about the condition for which you are considering filing a claim. If, as a result of your discussion with the service officer, the claim appears warranted, go to: Step 2: Collect Documentation. Gather the following documents to support your claim: • Service medical records • Private physician’s records • Applicable photographs • DD Form 214 • Marriage certificate • Birth certificates of children • Copies of dependents’ Social Security cards After assembling these records and forms, take... Step 3: Contact Your Service officer, Again. Discuss with the service officer your findings and what more, if anything, needs to be done to document your claim.

Applications for the Veteran Property Tax Deduction of $250.00 may be obtained from the Tax Assessor's Office. $250 Veterans Proprty Tax Deduction (Form V.S.S.) Link to Requirements Page Disabled Property Tax Relief (Form D.V.S.S.E.) Veterans Income Tax Form

NJ Veterans Tax Deduction

New Jersey Military and Veterans Legislation

Fred Vineyard Legislative Director fav1126005@aol.com

I am pleased to present New Jersey legislation that pertains to veterans. I will continually update this information as it changes. Legislation that has passed into law will appear at the end of this listing. Active Duty Military Personnel and Veterans New Jersey provides special consideration for active duty military personnel. Special privileges are also available for service-disabled or blind veterans (see below). License extensions If you are on active military duty and have been deployed, including New Jersey National Guard and Reserve, you and your immediate family are entitled to automatic extensions for your driver's license, registration and inspection requirements. Your license, registration and inspection documents will remain valid for as long as you are deployed.. When you are demobilized, you will need to renew your expired documents within 90 days of your demobilization date or return from duty. Law enforcement officials are aware of this extension. Please carry the Administrative Order along with your active duty military credentials at all times when operating a vehicle. See Related Links below for extension instructions to obtain the Deployed Military Administrative Order. Registration refunds If you enter or are an active member of the U.S. Armed Forces and have a valid New Jersey registration, you can get a refund for the remainder of the registration period. To obtain a refund: Write a letter to the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) stating the reason you are requesting a refund along with proof of service. Complete and return a refund form (RU-9). Refund forms are also available at motor vehicle agencies or by calling the MVC's Customer Support Line at 609- 292-6500 weekdays (except holidays) from 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.. Return the original registration and the New Jersey license plates along with a copy of military orders and a copy of the out-of-state registration. Service-disabled or blind veterans You may qualify for free registration, if you meet the following classifications: Are without sight as a result of war service and eligible for compensation from the State under N.J.S.A. 38:18- 1. Currently have another service-connected disability and have qualified for a free automobile from the US Veterans Administration and: o You have a valid New Jersey driver's license or a generated driver's license number. o The vehicle in question is equipped with special attachments or devices that may be necessary for its safe operation. o The vehicle is properly insured by a New Jersey licensed company. To apply for free registration, call 609 292-6500 extension 5076 for an application. Mail the certified application with affixed seal or stamp of the U.S. Veterans Administration to: New Jersey Motor Vehicle CommissionGovernment UnitP.O. Box 016Trenton, New Jersey 08666-0016 Once the free registration status has been established, all subsequent renewals can be completed at a motor vehicle agency, or through the mail in the envelope provided. Disabled Veteran, Purple Heart Recipient Placards Jersey law (N.J.S.A. 39:4-207.10) permits exemption from payment of municipal parking meter fees, for up to 24 hours, for disabled veterans and Purple Heart recipients under certain, specific circumstances. For more information, click here. We are required to capture a customer’s full face when taking a picture for a driver license or non-driver ID card; therefore we need to be able to see from the top of your forehead to the bottom of your chin. If you have a medical or religious need to wear a head covering in your photo, please advise the MVC staff at the agency camera station. Winner: New Jersey veterans Several bills intended to help the state’s veterans, particularly those who became disabled during their service, were approved by lawmakers during the lame duck, including a measure signed into law by Christie on Monday. The new law creates a 5-year pilot program that would issue grants to nonprofit groups to make improvements to the homes of disabled veterans, such as wheelchair ramps, accessible bathrooms and energy efficient equipment to reduce utility costs. The bill appropriates $5 million from the state’s general fund over the five-year program. Income Tax Exemption for Veterans New for Tax Year 2017. You are eligible for a $3,000 exemption on your Income Tax return if you are a military veteran who was honorably discharged or released under honorable circumstances from active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States by the last day of the tax year. Your spouse (or civil union partner) is also eligible for an exemption if he/she is a veteran who was honorably discharged or released under honorable circumstances and you are filing a joint return. This exemption is in addition to any other exemptions you are entitled to claim and is available on both the resident and nonresident returns. You cannot claim this exemption for a domestic partner or for your dependents. Providing DocumentationYou must provide a copy of Form DD-214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, the first time you claim the exemption.This form does not need to be provided each year. The United States National Archives and Records Administration can assist with obtaining a copy of your DD-214. You can certify for the exemption by sending a copy of your DD-214 and Veteran Exemption Submission Form to the Division before you file, which may help process your return faster. To certify: Use our secure document upload feature to submit your DD-214 and Veteran Exemption Submission Form. Enter the notice code VET and select PO Box 440; or Mail a copy of your DD-214 and Veteran Exemption Submission Form to: The New Jersey Division of Taxation, Veteran Exemption, PO Box 440, Trenton, NJ 08646-0440; or Fax your DD-214 and Veteran Exemption Submission Form to 609-633-8427. If you do not certify before you file for the exemption, you will need to submit a copy of your DD-214 when you file using: A Paper Return. Enclose a copy of your DD-214 with your return; NJ Fill’nFile. Upload your DD-214, along with all of your other documentation, into the repository; Other Electronic Filing Methods. If you file your return using NJ WebFile, third-party software (such as TurboTax), or you have a tax professional who electronically submits your return, you can send a copy of your DD-214 and Veteran Exemption Submission Formusing one of the three certification methods listed above. National Guard and Reserve Finally Get 'Veteran' Status New Jersey NEW Tax deduction for Veterans 2017 The tax deal introduced a $3,000 tax deduction for veterans. The law defines veterans as those who are "honorable discharged or released under honorable circumstances from active duty in the Armed Forces of the United states, a reserve component thereof, or the National Guard of New Jersey in a federal active duty status." Here's how 8 N.J. laws taking effect Jan. 1 might affect you | NJ.com Tax Exemptions for Disabled Veterans by State Jersey Disabled Veterans Real Estate Tax Exemption NJDVSSE Press Release: NJHA, UHF Announce $1.35M Grant to Bolster Veterans’ Mental Health Initiatives in New Jersey. For Immediate Release PRINCETON, N.J. (June 13, 2016) – The New Jersey Hospital Association (NJHA) and United Health Foundation brought together health professionals and military leaders today to raise awareness about the complexities of managing veterans’ health and examine ways to improve access to care through innovative partnerships and community engagement. The forum, “Managing the Complexity of Veteran Health: Serving Those Who Have Served,” highlighted a $1.35 million partnership between NJHA’s Health Research and Educational Trust (HRET) and United Health Foundation to bolster veteran health programs, including the hiring of additional Veteran Navigators to facilitate access to high-quality, community-based mental health, behavioral health and supportive services for veterans and military families in underserved areas of the state. The forum was attended by U.S. Representative Tom MacArthur (NJ-3), Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno, New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Adjutant General Michael Cunniff and Assemblymember Cleopatra Tucker (28-LD). United Health Foundation Partnership with New Jersey Hospital Association Helping Veterans and Service Members Navigate Health Services to Improve Access to Care Veteran Navigators hired through $1.35 million partnership grant are helping connect veterans, service members and their families to health services and programs in communities throughout New Jersey Forum brings together care providers and military leaders to raise awareness about managing the complexity of veteran health “Veterans and military families face unique health needs, and it is often a challenge for them to access the care and programs that help ensure they receive quality care,” said Betsy Ryan, president and CEO of the New Jersey Hospital Association. “This partnership with United Health Foundation is providing valuable resources that are helping raise awareness and improving the health and wellness of our veterans and service members.” According to the National Institutes of Health, military service members and veterans face health issues differently than civilians. The stressors of being in combat, combined with being separated from family, can put service members and veterans at risk for mental health problems. These include anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse and depression that, in extreme circumstances, can lead to suicide. According to a study commissioned by the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) and United Health Foundation, there is a preparedness gap among most community-based mental health providers in being able to take care of the special needs of military veterans and their families. Through its partnership with United Health Foundation, NJHA is using a peer-to-peer model with Veteran Navigators to connect with their fellow service members to facilitate access to the care that veterans and their families need. “The work of NJHA is improving access to care for veterans and military members,” said New Jersey Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno. “NJHA’s partnership with United Health Foundation is the type of public-private approach that will make a difference in the lives of our neighbors, particularly those with the greatest needs.” “Helping veterans and their families with support to improve their quality of life is mission critical,” said Michael Cunniff, Adjutant General, New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. “Our service members, veterans and their families often face unique challenges to care including having access to care providers who understand their specific needs. By raising awareness and having veterans engage directly with service members and their families, we are helping improve their personal health and recovery.” During the forum, guest speakers discussed important health topics facing veterans and military service members including military culture, injury and recovery programs, PTSD, suicide prevention and navigating the VA system, among others. NJHA provided an overview and update on how the organization is working collaboratively with other partners in the state to implement a comprehensive model to close the gap between providers and veterans through efforts that increase awareness of available support, and improve skills of mental health professionals in addressing veteran-specific issues and needs. U.S. Rep. Tom MacArthur (NJ-3) praised the work on behalf of veterans and service members. “I applaud the work of all the organizations gathered today for this important forum that is raising awareness about improving care for our veterans and service members who have sacrificed so much for our nation. It is important to help connect our troops with the programs and care they need, particularly given the unique situations they face. Programs like this are model initiatives that bring together the best minds and organizations to forge solutions to care.” The Veteran Navigators, along with the entire project team at NJHA, are being cross-trained in Mental Health First Aid, Health Coaching and supplemental topics with an opportunity to become Certified Prevention Specialists to help meet the unique needs of military service members and their families “This partnership between NJHA and United Health Foundation is helping to ensure that our military men and women understand the programs and services available to them to improve their care and quality of life,” said Heather Cianfrocco, President, Northeast Region, UnitedHealthcare. “The Veteran Navigators are a critical resource, understanding their experiences and their needs, and helping to alleviate the stresses that our nation’s service members, veterans and their families endure every day.” About NJHA and the Health Research & Educational Trust The New Jersey Hospital Association is a healthcare trade organization that helps hospitals and post-acute care providers deliver affordable, accessible and quality healthcare to their communities. The Health Research and Educational Trust of New Jersey is a nonprofit affiliate of NJHA. It provides leadership and resources to improve the healthcare delivery system and health of the community. Its mission is to develop research projects and educational initiatives that promote quality, affordable and accessible healthcare and raise public and provider awareness about vital healthcare issues. About United Health FoundationThrough collaboration with community partners, grants and outreach efforts, United Health Foundation works to improve our health system, build a diverse and dynamic health workforce and enhance the well-being of local communities. United Health Foundation was established by UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) in 1999 as a not-for-profit, private foundation dedicated to improving health and health care. To date, United Health Foundation has committed more than $285 million to programs and communities around the world. We invite you to learn more at www.unitedhealthfoundation.org or follow @UHGGives on Twitter or Facebook.com/UHGGives. Contacts: Kerry McKean Kelly L.D. Platt New Jersey Hospital Association United Health Foundation (609) 275-4069 (202) 654-8830 kmckean@njha.com LD_Platt@uhg.com Veteran EMT Support Act signed into law Trained military medics will be put on an accelerated track to receive state EMT certification and licensure Aug 4, 2016 WASHINGTON — New legislation will help military veterans with medic training to transition into the civilian workforce, helping to address a shortage of EMTs. The Veteran Emergency Medical Technician Act of 2016, H.R. 1818, was signed into law with the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) in late July. The bill was a key priority of the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians, who will help create a transition program for trained military medics to meet state EMT certification and licensure requirements. "The Veterans EMT Support Act is an important step forward to help veterans in their transition back to civilian life, while improving emergency care in our communities," said Rep. Lois Capps, D-California one of the officials who introduced the bill. "These heroes have proven their skills on the battlefield. It is only right that we break down any artificial barriers that delay or prevent them from serving our communities here at home." CARA aims to address the growing opioid addiction epidemic by authorizing nearly $900 million over the next five years to support education, prevention and law enforcement efforts. The bill was formally signed into law on July 23.

P.L.2021, c.37.A2244 Approved 3/15/2021 Revises provisions of State law concerning claiming and proper disposal of cremains of veterans and eligible spouses or dependents. P.L.2021, c.49.S275 Approved 4/19/2021 Provides resident tuition rate to certain non-resident dependent children of United States military personnel attending public institutions of higher education. P.L.2021, c.56.S2815 Approved 4/19/2021 Requires DMVA assist service members discharged solely due to LGBTQ status with petitions to change discharge designation. P.L.2022, c.59.A1455 approved 7/5/2022 Permits county clerk or register of deeds and mortgages to issue identification card to Gold Star Family Member. P.L.2021, c.174.S278 Approved 7/22/2021 Establishes certain rights for students with military obligations attending public institutions of higher education and permits late registration for students with military obligations.* P.L.2021, c.175.S956 Approved 7/22/2021 Extends veterans' property tax exemption to tenant shareholders in cooperatives and mutual housing corporations. P.L.2021, c.176.S961 Approved 7/22/2021 Establishes annual grant program to recognize institutions of higher education that offer comprehensive array of veteran programs and services.* P.L.2021, c.214.A5849 Approved 9/16/2021 Requires Adjutant General of DMVA send weekly reports to Commissioner of DOH on status of veterans' homes in State during every future public health emergency; requires such reports through December 31, 2021. * P.L.2021, c.215.A5850 Approved 9/16/2021 Requires DMVA veterans' memorial homes to hold quarterly town hall meetings with veterans' guardians. P.L.2021, c.216.A5851 Approved 9/16/2021 Allows veteran's guardian to remove veteran from DMVA veterans' memorial home under certain emergency circumstances. P.L.2021, c.217.A5852 Approved 9/16/2021 Requires DMVA veterans' memorial homes to communicate with veterans' guardians via at least two communication means. P.L.2021, c.218.A5853 Approved 9/16/2021 Requires administrator and assistant administrator at State veterans' memorial home have prior work experience in clinical setting. P.L.2021, c.219.A5854 Approved 9/16/2021 Requires position of resident advocate at each State veterans' memorial home. P.L.2021, c.220.A5855 Approved 9/16/2021 Requires DMVA veterans' facilities provide payroll-based journal information to NJ Long-Term Care Ombudsman. P.L.2021, c.221.A5856 Approved 9/16/2021 Requires Director of Division of Veterans' Healthcare Services in DMVA to have prior clinical and long-term care experience. P.L.2021, c.241.A3123 Approved 9/28/2021 Allows veteran or personal representative to withdraw honorable discharge papers from county clerk. P.L.2021, c.300.A4861 Approved 11/8/2021 Requires DOH to publish total number of COVID-19 deaths and cases in long-term care facilities.* P.L.2021, c.340.S2817 Approved 1/10/2022 Allows active duty service members to provide document other than DD-214 when claiming veterans' preference for civil service. P.L.2021, c.429.A259 Approved 1/18/2022 Provides civil service preference to military service members who did not serve in theater of operation but received campaign or expedition medal. P.L.2021, c.435.A1121 Approved 1/18/2022 Upgrades certain crimes of misrepresenting oneself as member or veteran of US Armed Forces or organized militia. P.L.2021, c.470.A5694 Approved 1/18/2022 Permits dependents of military member to enroll in school district in advance of military member's relocation to district. P.L.2021, c.474.A6012 Approved 1/18/2022 Appropriates $500,000 for USS New Jersey Commissioning Committee to support commissioning of boat and assigned personnel. P.L.2022, c.59.A1455 Approved 7/5/2022 Permits county clerk or register of deeds and mortgages to issue identification card to Gold Star Family Member. P.L.2022, c.84.S875 Approved 8/2/2022 Requires Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services in DHS to accept permanent change of station order for purposes of satisfying residency requirement for provision of home and community based services under certain circumstances. P.L.2022, c.105.A1477 Approved 9/15/2022 Increases allowance paid to war veterans with certain service-connected disabilities. P.L.2022, c.108.A3694 Approved 9/15/2022 Establishes "Purple Star Schools Program" in DOE to recognize schools which emphasize importance of assisting children of military families. * P.L.2022, c.125.A655 Approved 12/5/2022 Exempts discharge of student loan debt of certain veterans through the federal Total and Permanent Disability discharge process from taxation under the gross income tax. P.L.2022, c.126.A325 Approved 12/12/2022 Authorizes military service members, spouses, and dependents with out-of-state domicile to operate motor vehicles in New Jersey. P.L.2023, c.17.A2493 Approved 3/10/2023 Defines indigent veteran and veteran status for certain veteran interment purposes. P.L.2023, c.18.A2722 Approved 3/10/2023 Permits veteran to receive credit toward licensure as licensed practical nurse upon completing certain military medical training programs. Summary of Fiscal Year 2023 Appropriations for Veterans Affairs, Programs and Related Agencies The Military Construction, Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies bill (H.R. 2617, (P.L. 117-328). The FY2023 Consolidated Appropriations Act) for fiscal year 2023, provides the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and related agencies with $135.2 billion in non-defense discretionary funding, as well as $168.6 billion in mandatory funding. This is $34 billion above fiscal year 2022 levels. The bill further provides advance appropriations for fiscal year 2024, including $128.1 billion for veterans' medical care and $155.4 billion for veterans' benefits. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) – $134.7 billion in discretionary appropriations for VA, an increase of $22.5 billion above the fiscal year 2022 enacted level and $328.7 million below the President’s budget request: • $118.7 billion for Veterans Medical Care, an increase of $21.7 billion above the fiscal year 2022 enacted level and equal to the President’s budget request. This will provide care for 7.3 million patients expected to be treated by VA in fiscal year 2023. This amount includes: • $13.9 billion for Mental Healthcare, including $498 million for suicide prevention outreach. This will support the nearly 2 million veterans who receive mental health services in a VA specialty mental health setting, as well as support suicide prevention services like the Veterans Crisis Line. • $2.7 billion for Homeless Assistance Programs. This funding will enhance VA’s ability to reach homeless veterans. • $337 million Rural Health, $10 million more than fiscal year 2022, to support improved access to care, including expanded access to transportation and telehealth. • $1.9 billion for Caregivers, $493 million more than fiscal year 2022, to help VA implement this program consistent with Congressional intent. • $840.5 million for Women’s Health, equal to fiscal year 2022, for gender-specific healthcare services, as well as initiatives and improvements to healthcare facilities. • $183.3 million for Substance Use Disorder programs. This funding will help support care for the over 540,000 veterans who had a substance-use disorder diagnosis in 2021. Additionally, $663 million is for opioid abuse prevention, an increase of $41 million above the fiscal year 2022 enacted level and equal to the budget request. • $86 million for Whole Health Initiatives. This will enable VA to expand and improve a program that focuses on veterans’ overall health and well-being. • Additionally, $128.1 billion in advance of fiscal year 2024 funding for Veterans Medical Care, equal to the President’s budget request. This funding will provide for medical services, medical community care, medical support and compliance, and medical facilities. VA Non-Medical Care Programs - VA non-Medical Care programs, which are $1.2 billion above the fiscal year 2022 enacted level. This amount includes: • $916 million for Medical and Prosthetic Research, an increase of $34 million above the fiscal year 2022 enacted level and equal to the President’s budget request. This funding will allow VA to fund approximately 2,697 total projects and partner with more than 200 medical schools and other academic institutions. • $1.76 billion for VA Electronic Health Records Modernization, to continue implementation of the VA Electronic Health Record Modernization initiative, $741 million below the fiscal year 2022 enacted level and equal to the President’s budget request. • $3.86 billion for operating expenses of the Veterans Benefits Administration, an increase of $409 million above the fiscal year 2022 enacted level and equal to the President’s budget request, to ensure the prompt processing of disability claims and efforts to continue reducing the disability claims backlog. • $2.1 billion for VA Construction programs, equal to the President’s budget request. Within this amount, $1.45 billion is for Major Construction and $626 million is for Minor Construction. • $150 million for Grants for Construction of State Extended Care Facilities, an increase of $100 million above the fiscal year 2022 enacted level and equal to the President’s budget request. This increase will allow VA to provide more grants to assist states in constructing state home facilities, for furnishing domiciliary or nursing home care to veterans, and to expand, remodel, or alter existing buildings. • $5 billion in new mandatory funds for the Cost of War Toxic Exposures Fund, established to support costs related to providing veterans and their families with the benefits and care associated with the eligibility expansions included in the Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022 (P.L. 117-168). • Additionally, $155.4 billion in advance mandatory funding for VA benefit programs. Related Agencies - $442.7 million in discretionary appropriations for related agencies, an increase of $8.5 million above the fiscal year 2022 enacted level and $700,000 above the President’s budget request. This amount includes: • $156 million for Arlington National Cemetery, including $60 million to continue the urgently needed Southern Expansion project that will create 80,000 additional burial spaces. This is equal to the President’s budget request. • $87.5 million for the American Battle Monuments Commission, equal to the fiscal year 2022 enacted level and $700,000 more than the President’s budget request. This will support continued maintenance of the graves of 124,000 American war dead in overseas cemeteries, as well as visitor and education services for the more than 3 million visitors expected to visit these sites in fiscal year 2023. • $152 million for the Armed Forces Retirement Home, $75 million above the fiscal year 2022 enacted level and equal to the President’s budget request. This will support the needs of the over 800 residents at the two retirement home campuses and invest in life and safety infrastructure improvements, including construction funds for the renovation of the main resident building on the Washington campus. • $46.9 million for the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, $5.2 million above the fiscal year 2022 enacted level and equal to the President’s budget request. This increase supports the planned temporary expansion, which will improve the court’s capacity to adjudicate appeals in a timely manner. Additional Veterans Bills Cleland-Dole Act – TheJoseph Maxwell Cleland and Robert Joseph Dole Memorial Veterans Benefits and Health Care Improvement Act of 2022 will: • Expand eligibility for VA hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care to include all veterans of World War II. • Establish a clinical pathway for prostate cancer, along with increased research. • Cut bureaucratic red tape for veterans who receive clothing allowances. These veterans will no longer need to reapply annually. • Increase oversight of health care providers to ensure veterans receive high quality care. • Improve measurements of wait times for the community care program and pilot scheduling. • Extend eligibility for GI Bill and Veterans Readiness and Employment (VR&E) during national emergencies so educational benefits are not left unused. STRONG Veterans Act - The Support the Resiliency of Our Nation’s Great (STRONG) Veterans Act of 2022 is a comprehensive mental health package that addresses mental health care provided by the VA, including provision to: • Strengthen VA’s mental health care workforce, expand care options, and support mental health research at the Department. • Improve the Veterans Crisis Line’s (VCL) staff training, management, and response to veteran callers at risk of suicide. • Strengthen the Solid Start program, which was created by VA in 2019 to contact every veteran three times by phone in the first year after they leave active duty service to check-in and help connect them to VA programs and benefits. • Designate one week per year as “Buddy Check Week” to organize outreach events and educate veterans on how to conduct peer wellness checks. • Expand VA’s peer specialist support program, established through the VA MISSION Act, to all VA medical centers. • Expand Vet Center eligibility for counseling and related mental health services to family members of servicemembers or veterans of the Armed Forces who died by suicide. • Require VA to report to Congress on the Department’s Veterans Integration to Academic Leadership (VITAL) program and assess the number of VA medical centers, institutions of higher learning, non-college degree programs, and student veterans supported by the program. • The package also includes provisions to improve mental health outreach to Native American veterans and minority veterans, bolster VA’s outreach to justice-involved veterans, expand Vet Center eligibility to student veterans, and allow Native American tribes to participate in VA’s Governors’ Challenge veteran suicide prevention program. Please go to Congress.gov to view Fiscal Year 2023 Appropriations for Veterans Affairs, H.R. 2617, (P.L. 117-328 Click the link below to log in and send your message: https://www.votervoice.net/BroadcastLinks/kw-tvYfsgQxYRL_GKYqeDw On June 14, 2023, the president signed into law S. 777, the Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2023, which authorizes a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for veterans receiving Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability compensation, clothing allowance, and survivors receiving dependency indemnity compensation (DIC) payments. To view Public Law 118-6, click here. VA adjusts veterans’ monthly disability compensation amounts based on the yearly change in the cost of living as determined by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Later this year, SSA will announce the exact percentage of increase. We will inform you of the percentage when it is announced. The COLA adjustment will be effective December 2023, and will be reflected in January 2024 compensation payments.

Legal Assistance

Military Veterans Legal Assistance Program 614-230-6769 Military Veterans Resource Center 614-230-0662

SEC Meeting Schedule ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ SEC MEETING 2024 Check Back for more information * Meeting dates are subject to change **We will keep you advised if there is a change to any of these dates due to pandemic guidelines**

VA Benefits for Reimbursement of Cremation Expenses A. $300 is available for honorably discharged veterans if one of the following conditions are met: Veteran was receiving a pension or disability benefits from the VA at the time of death. Death occurred in a VA hospital. Death occurred in a VA nursing home or VA contracted health care facility. B. $2,000 is available if one of the following conditions are met: Veterans died during active duty. Honorably discharged veteran died of a service-connected injury. C. $300 Burial Plot Allowance is available when an honorably discharged veteran is not interred in a cemetery that is under the jurisdiction of the U.S. government if one of the following conditions are met: Veteran was receiving a pension or disability benefits from the VA at the time of death. Death occurred in a VA hospital. Death occurred in a VA nursing home or VA contracted health care facility. D. Transportation Allowance for deceased veterans will be reimbursed by the VA for: Transportation expenses from the place of death to the cremation facility if the death occurred in a VA hospital or military hospital for retired and active duty personnel. Transportation expenses from the crematory to a National cemetery for veterans that either: Died from a service connected injury, were receiving a VA pension or disability benefits, or died in a VA or military hospital. Interment In a National Cemetery Many families of deceased veterans take advantage of interment benefits available through the Veterans Administration National Cemetery System. FREE gravespace for interment of cremated remains is available in any one of a number of VA National cemeteries located throughout the country. Eligibility Requirements All honorably discharged veterans, their spouses and minor children who have been cremated are eligible for interment in a national cemetery. In addition, certain members of the Reserve Component of the Armed Forces, World War II Merchant Marines and Commissioned Officers of NOAA and the Public Health Service may also eligible. For a complete listing of eligibility requirements contact your local veterans affairs office or visit the Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery System Web Site. Interment Options There is no charge for interment of cremated remains in a National Cemetery. Cremated remains may be interred in either an in-ground grave, a garden niche, or placed in a columbarium depending upon the family's preference. Please note that not all National cemeteries provide for each of these three interment options. A complete listing of VA National Cemeteries and telephone numbers can be found at http://www.va.gov/cemetery/address.htm. Scheduling an Interment Funeral Director will arrange for an interment in a National Cemetery as part of their service. Normally, all that is required to make these arrangements is a copy of the official military discharge document or a Form DD 214. The funeral director will forward the required documentation to the cemetery director and a tentative date for interment will be set. Cremated remains may not be delivered to the cemetery until interment eligibility is verified and the arrangements are confirmed. Please note that memorialization in a National Cemetery is available only on an at-need basis at the time of death. Eligible veterans may not reserve burial or niche space in a National Cemetery on a pre-need basis. Military Honors Section 578 on the National Defense Act provides free military honors for eligible veterans whose families request them. The law includes a basic military funeral honor ceremony consisting of the folding and presentation of the American flag and the playing of Taps. The military detail performing this ceremony will consist of two or more uniformed members of the military, with at least one member representing the branch in which the veteran served. Each military branch may also include additional elements of the ceremony such as a rifle volley. In most cases, the funeral director that you select will handle the details of scheduling the military ceremony if they assisted the family is setting up and coordinating the memorial service. For more information about military honors, you may visit the Department of Defense web site at www.militaryfuneralhonors.osd.mil. Headstones, Markers and Monuments If burial of the cremated remains takes place in a National Cemetery, the VA will provide a free granite or marble headstone or a granite, marble, or bronze marker. If burial takes place in a private cemetery, the VA will provide a free headstone consistent with the cemetery requirements. For veterans who's cremated remains have been scattered, a memorial monument is available. Most cremation societies will take care of arranging for installation of a headstone, marker or memorial monument at no charge. Social Security Benefits Some of the deceased's family members may be able to receive Social Security benefits if the deceased person worked long enough under Social Security to quality for benefits. Funeral Parlor contacts Social Security as soon as possible to make sure the family receives all of the benefits to which it may be entitled. Please read the following information carefully to learn what benefits may be available. A one-time payment of $255.00 may / can be paid to the surviving spouse if he or she was living with the deceased; or, if living apart, was receiving certain Social Security benefits on the deceased's record. If there is no surviving spouse, the payment is made to a child who is eligible for benefits on the deceased's record in the month of death. This money cannot be applied to the funeral home expense of the deceased, as it can come several weeks/months after death. Certain family members may be eligible to receive monthly benefits, including: • A widow or widower age 60 or older (age 50 or older if disabled); • A surviving spouse at any age who is caring for the deceased's child under age 16 or disabled; • An unmarried child of the deceased who is younger than age 18 (or age 18 or 19 if he or she is a full-time student in an elementary or secondary school); or age 18 or older with a disability that began before age 22; • Parents, age 62 or older, who were dependent on the deceased for at least half of their support; and • A surviving divorced spouse, under certain circumstances. The Social Security Administration website is a valuable resource for information about all of The Social Security Administration’s programs. In addition to using the Social Security Administration website, you can call them toll-free at 1.800.772.1213. Staff can answer the most specific questions from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. They can also provide information by automated phone service 24 hours a day. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call the TTY number at 1.800.325.0778. Who is eligible for Military Funeral Honors? • Military members on active duty or in the Selected Reserve. • Former military members who served on active duty and departed under conditions other than dishonorable (who received a documented Honorable Discharge or a documented Disabled Release from the United States Armed Forces). • Former military members who completed at least one term of enlistment or period of initial obligated service in the Selected Reserve and departed under conditions other than dishonorable (who received a documented Honorable Discharge or a documented Disabled Release from the United States Armed Forces). • Former military members discharged from the Selected Reserve due to a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty. Who is not eligible for Military Funeral Honors? • Any person separated from the Armed Forces under dishonorable conditions (Dishonorable Discharge) or whose character of service results in a bar to veteran's benefits. • Any person who was ordered to report to an induction station, but was not actually inducted into military service. • Any person discharged from the Selected Reserve prior to completing one term of enlistment or period of initial obligated service for reasons other than a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty. • Any person convicted of a Federal or State capital crime sentenced to death or life imprisonment. How do the Surviving Family Members establish the Veteran’s eligibility? The preferred method is by locating / providing the DD 214 Form (also known as the DD Form 214), Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. If the DD 214 Form is not available, any discharge document showing other than dishonorable service may/can be used. The DD 214 Form may be obtained by filling out a Standard Form 180 and sending it to: National Personnel Records Center(NPRC) 9700 Page Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63132 The Standard Form 180 may be obtained from the National Records Center or via the following web site: http://www.archives.gov/research/order/standard-form-180.pdf Is anyone else eligible to receive funeral honors? Yes. Members of the Commissioned Officer Corps of the Public Health Service (PHS) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), as members of a Uniformed Service, are also eligible to receive funeral honors. • For PHS personnel, funeral honors eligibility is established using PHS Form 1867, Statement of Service (equivalent to the DD Form 214). If the family does not have a copy of the Statement of Service, it may be obtained by contacting the Privacy Coordinator for the Commissioned Corps at (240) 453-6041 or by writing to: Division of Commissioned Personnel/HRS/PSC Attention: Privacy Act Coordinator 5600 Fishers Lane 4-36 Rockville, Maryland 20857 • For NOAA personnel, eligibility is established using NOAA Form 56-16, Report of Transfer or Discharge. If the family does not have a copy of the NOAA Form 56-16, it may be obtained by contacting the Chief, Officer Services Division, NOAA Commissioned Personnel Center at (301) 713-7715. or by writing to: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Personnel Center Chief, Officer Services Division (CPC1) 1315 East-West Highway, Room 12100 Silver Spring, Maryland 20910 Veteran Burial Flag United States flag is provided, at no cost, to drape the casket, accompany the casket, or accompany the urn of a deceased veteran who served honorably in the U. S. Armed Forces. The Funeral Home / Funeral Director will be able to best provide direction when it comes to making that decision, based on the conditions present on the day of the funeral. It is furnished to honor the memory of a veteran's military service to his or her country. VA will furnish a burial flag for memorialization for: • A veteran who served during wartime • A veteran who died on active duty after May 27, 1941 • A veteran who served after January 31, 1955 • A peacetime veteran who was discharged or released before June 27, 1950 • Certain persons who served in the organized military forces of the Commonwealth of the Philippines while in service of the U.S. Armed Forces and who died on or after April 25, 1951 • Certain former members of the Selected Reserves Who Is Eligible to Receive the Burial Flag? Generally, the flag is given to the next-of-kin, as a keepsake, after its use during the funeral service. When there is no next- of-kin, VA will furnish the flag to a friend making request for it. For those VA national cemeteries with an Avenue of Flags, families of Veterans buried in these national cemeteries may donate the burial flags of their loved ones to be flown on patriotic holidays. How Can You Apply? You may apply for the flag by completing VA Form 27-2008, Application for United States Flag for Burial Purposes. You may get a flag at any VA regional office or U.S. Post Office. Generally, the funeral director obtain the flag. Can a Burial Flag Be Replaced? The law allows us to issue one flag for a veteran's funeral. We cannot replace it if it is lost, destroyed, or stolen. Ho How Should the Burial Flag Be Displayed? The proper way to display the flag depends upon whether the casket is open or closed. Again, The Funeral Home / Funeral Director will be able to best provide direction when it comes to making that decision, based on the conditions present on the day of the funeral. VA Form 27-2008 provides the correct method for displaying and folding the flag. The burial flag is not suitable for outside display (flying / hoisting) because of its size and fabric. It is made of cotton and can easily be damaged by weather. For More Information Call Toll-Free at 1-800-827-1000

AMVETS (American Veterans) offers one of the most liberal membership criteria of any national veterans service organization. Anyone who has served honorably in the Armed Forces of the United States from World War II to the present - including those on active duty, in the National Guard, Reserves or wartime Merchant Marine - is eligible to join. There is no limitation on when your service occurred (war-time period or not), what service you were in, what grade you held or how long you served. The assistance that AMVETS offers to veterans is free of charge, and a veteran doesn't have to be an AMVETS member to receive it. AMVETS members serve active duty armed forces personnel, their fellow veterans and their communities through a variety of programs. AMVETS also keeps a watchful eye on all Capitol Hill legislation and aggressively comments on every bill that is likely to affect veterans and active duty and reserve personnel in the armed forces. LIFE MEMBERSHIP CHANGE Life Membership Dues, effective September 1, 2023, shall not be less than $500 for those members age up to and including 55, ages 56-65 will be $400 and those 66 and over $300, nonrefundable.

Membership News

This is your application for membership in AMVETS Department of New Jersey. Please print this form and mail it with your check to the address below. Please include a copy of your discharge papers. I am applying for: New Annual $30.00:__________ (Member At Large-varies by Post) Life Member: SEE BELOW Post # :______________ State:_____________ Sponsor :________________________________ Name :__________________________________________________ Spouse Name :__________________________________________________ Address :__________________________________________________ City :_________________________________ State:____________________ Zip:_____________ Phone :__________________ Fax:__________________ E-mail:_____________________________ Branch of Service :___________________ Discharge Type :______________________ Date Entered Service :_______________ Date Discharged :_______________ Service # :_____________________ Sex :_____________ Date of Birth:______________________ Today's Date :_______________ Signature:__________________________________________ “Life membership dues, effective September 1, 2023, shall not be less than $500 for those members age up to and including 55, ages 56 through 65 will be $400 and those 66 and over $300, non-refundable.”

New Jersey AMVETS Membership Application

NJ Post Programs *all Posts take part in Veteran Memorial Services/Events Post 911 (Somers Point) • Veteran pizza parties at County nursing home • Food donation drive with American Legion 352 • Clothing donation for Veterans • Flag Display for Suicide Awareness with Knights of Columbus Post 16 (Bridgewater) • Veteran pizza parties at Lyons VA Hospital Post 20 (Lyndhurst) • Toys for Tots Drive • Peer to Peer Support activities Post 30 (Nutley) • Certified VSO services available • Peer to Peer Counseling • Clothing and Food Drives • Volunteer with Boy Scouts • Gardening and Social Activities • Religious Services on weekends Post 33 (Jersey City) • Clothing and Food Drives

AMERICANISM Flag Coloring Contest NJ Department HQ invites kindergarten and first grade students in local elementary schools to participate. 1st and 2nd place winning entries are chosen at each grade level from submissions received by teachers. Gift Awards are presented to winning students by NJ AMVETS Department HQ. All students receive a Certificate of Participation *First Place entries are sent to AMVETS National HQ to participate in their contest.

JROTC – Junior Reserve Officers’ Training JROTC is a Federal Program by United States Armed Forces in High Schools. NJ Department HQ presents certificates and medals to NJ High School Cadets at the request of their instructor.

PATRIOTISM NJ Department HQ issues certificates in recognition of those displaying the American Flag. We invite the community to reach out with information for anyone deserving this recognition. “You’re the emblem of the land I love. The home of the free and the brave.” (George M. Cohan)

SCOUTING Eagle Scout is the highest rank earned in scouting. NJ Department HQ issues a Special Scouting Certificate at request of Troop Leaders or Parents.

SCHOLARSHIP NJ DEPARTMENT HQ offers a $500 Scholarship. Application is open January through April. Please visit our webpage for complete details and application. www.amvets-nj.org Scholarship Application

NJ DEPARTMENT HQ

HELPSY invites you to host a Clothing Bin or Clothing Drive at your location (no cost to you) Check out the attached flyer from HELPSY with an overview of facts. FLYER LINK Interested? Have additional questions? Call or e-mail HELPSY and get all the details 800-244-6350 info@helpsy.co *Tell them AMVETS sent you*

Chapel of the Four Chaplains

Energy Assistance Application 609-883-1626 NJ SHARES

National Guard Benefits

Take The Wheel Program

Apply for VA Healthcare 877-222-8387

AMVETS Job Search

Racers Army Navy

racersarmynavy@yahoo.com

New Jersey Income Tax Exemption For Veterans Instructions

New Jersey Veteran Income Tax Exemption Submission Form

including veterans with PTSD and disabilities

VA Life Insurance

Veterans NJ Tax Guide

732.977.6034 sunflowersforsoldiers@gmail.com

Caregiver Support Program (CSP)

Caregiver Resources Respite Care

Scootaround.com/va

888-583-8387 Mobility device repair services now available for Veterans enrolled in VA care. Currently offered for Veterans who receive VA health care in VISN 4

NJ Veterans Benefits Guide

Military.com Provides Veteran Benefits, News & Updates