An updated state law is now in place about cities and towns helping veterans.  Under the old law, any municipality that didn't have a local veterans' advisory committee, and did not provide funding for a veterans' service officer, was required to designate an employee to serve as the contact person. 

The new law allows volunteers to serve in this position, and subjects them to all existing training requirements. 

The designated volunteer must live in that municipality, be a veteran or have experience with veterans' issue, and be available for a minimum number of hours per week.  The representative will also be required to file a monthly performance report with the municipality about the services or referrals provided and the names of veterans assisted. 

The local veterans’ advisory committee can coordinate reemployment, education, rehabilitation, and adjustment to peacetime living, help secure services and benefits for veterans and their dependents, and coordinate vocational training services for veterans.