Legislation Introduced to Create 9-Member Veterans Oversight Commission

Legislation Introduced to Create 9-Member Veterans Oversight Commission

Rhode Island State Representative Camille Vella-Wilkinson (D-Dist. 21, Warwick) has introduced a bill that would create a nine-member permanent joint military and veterans’ affairs oversight commission.

“The issues facing veterans are many. Homelessness, medical issues, poverty, and unemployment continue to plague those who served their country gallantly and honorably,” said Vella-Wilkinson.

She added, “We have a duty and obligation to ensure that veterans receive proper medical care, prompt and courteous service at the Veterans Home and that veterans have an opportunity to thrive in Rhode Island. This commission, which would include veterans among its membership, would go a long way toward doing just that.”

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About the Bill

The bill (2020-H 7175) would establish the commission for the purpose of overseeing operations of the Rhode Island Office of Veterans’ Affairs and fiscal oversight of military affairs and defense.

The panel would include four members from the House of Representatives, three from the Senate and two veterans to be appointed by the governor.

The commission would oversee all operations of the Rhode Island Office of Veterans’ Affairs, exercise fiscal oversight of the air and army national guard, and oversee matters related to veteran services to include the operation of the veterans’ cemetery and Rhode Island veterans’ home.

The panel would coordinate and consult with the United States Veterans Administration.

 

PHOTO: Fort Rucker/Flickr Commons