Veterans.

(1) Existing law establishes the California Veterans Board, composed of 7 members with specified qualifications who are appointed by the Governor and subject to the confirmation of the Senate, to determine the policies for all operations of the Department of Veterans Affairs. This bill would require the board to advise the department and the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs on policies for operations of the department, and would require the department to respond to all proposed policy changes offered by the board prior to the next scheduled meeting of the board. This bill would also eliminate certain qualifications to be a member of the board, and require every board member to be a member in good standing with a congressionally chartered veteran service organization. (2) Existing law requires the board to annually report to the Legislature regarding the activities, accomplishments, and expenditures of the board. This bill would repeal this requirement. (3) Existing law sets forth the duties of the secretary and the board with regard to the administration of the department to benefit California veterans. This bill would require the secretary and the board to each seek to confer with the California State Commanders Veterans Council at least twice per calendar year on issues affecting California veterans.