Legislation Senator Jim Beach sponsored to ensure the families of deceased service members are provided information on survivor programs for which they are eligible was recently signed into law by Gov. Chris Christie.
The new law requires the State Division of Veterans’ Training, Information and Referrals within the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs to coordinate with other veterans service offices to provide the surviving beneficiary of a deceased service member with a comprehensive packet containing information on all federal and State benefits programs for which the beneficiary is eligible.
“The surviving beneficiaries of soldiers who’ve died in the line of duty are entitled to support from a grateful state and nation,” said Beach (D-Camden). “However, many of these mourning family members aren’t aware of the full extent of the programs for which they’re eligible and the benefits to which they are entitled. Now we will be able to ensure that these folks receive all the benefits they so rightfully deserve.”
The Division will develop the packet of information, and provide all veterans service offices in the state with a supply of packets for distribution. Receipt of a notice of death of a service member who resides in New Jersey, or whose surviving beneficiary resides in-state, will trigger the appropriate regional veterans service offices to contact the beneficiary with the information.