N.J. Stat. § 38A:23-7 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 23 / Section 23-7
Designated treatment unit for veterans, State hospitals.
Status: in_force

38A:23-7. The commissioner may from time to time request that the commissioner of the department overseeing psychiatric hospitals designate any State hospital for the care of the mentally ill, or a part thereof, as a treatment unit for veterans who require such care and who are eligible for admission to a veterans' facility. Upon making such designation, the commissioner of the appropriate department shall cause to be filed with the Commissioner of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Secretary of State a certificate setting forth the fact thereof, a description of the precise treatment unit so designated, and its location. L.2025, c.139, s.29.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:21-22 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 21 / Section 21-22
Qualified veterans' organization, right to receive cremains.
Status: in_force

38A:21-22. a. A funeral director, licensed pursuant to P.L.1952, c.340 (C.45:7-32 et seq.), shall grant a qualified veterans' organization, as defined in subsection b. of section 2 of P.L.1983, c.385 (C.26:7-18.2), the right to receive the cremains of a veteran, or the cremains of an eligible spouse or eligible dependent of a veteran, which have not been claimed by a relative or friend of the deceased within one year after cremation upon certification, to the satisfaction of the Commissioner of Health, that a diligent effort, as defined in subsection a. of section 2 of P.L.1983, c.385 (C.26:7-18.2), has been made to identify, locate, and notify a relative or friend of the deceased within that one-year period, as provided under section 2 of P.L.1983, c.385 (C.26:7-18.2). A qualified veterans' organization which takes possession of cremains pursuant to this section shall dispose of the cremains by scattering them at sea or by interring them on land in a dignified manner at the State-operated Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans' Memorial Cemetery, a State-operated veterans' memorial cemetery, a national veterans' memorial cemetery, or a local veterans’ memorial cemetery, if the individual is eligible for interment at those facilities. b. A funeral home or mortuary, or an agent of the funeral home or mortuary, a funeral director, or a qualified veterans' organization shall not be liable for damages in any civil action arising out of the disposal of cremains pursuant to this section unless the damages are the result of gross negligence or willful misconduct. L.2025, c.139, s.20.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:21-26 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 21 / Section 21-26
Registry of organizations providing services to military veterans.
Status: in_force

38A:21-26. a. The Department of Veterans Affairs shall create and maintain a registry of all organizations that provide services to military veterans. The registry shall be prominently displayed, and organized topically, on a public webpage of the department to provide a comprehensive listing of organizations with services addressing the needs of veterans. The department shall actively seek out organizations to include on the registry, and organizations may also voluntarily submit requests to be included on the registry. The department shall conduct a review of any organization prior to the organization's inclusion on the registry and the department may, in its discretion, refuse to include an organization on the registry or remove an organization from the registry if the department determines that the organization's services do not reflect the purpose of the registry. Inclusion on the registry shall not be construed to be an endorsement of an organization by the department or State. b. As used in this section, "organizations that provide services to veterans" includes any organization, not for profit or otherwise, exclusively providing services to veterans or primarily providing services to veterans or any organization that provides services to a variety of recipients including veterans. L.2025, c.139, s.53.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:20-3.1 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 20 / Section 20-3.1
Article XV of the Interstate Civil Defense and Disaster Compact on mutual aid.
Status: in_force

1. a. This article shall be in effect only as among those states which have enacted it into law or in which the governors have adopted it pursuant to constitutional or statutory authority sufficient to give it the force of law as part of this compact. Nothing contained in this article or in any supplementary agreement made in implementation thereof shall be construed to abridge, impair or supersede any other provision of this compact or any obligation undertaken by a state pursuant thereto, except that if its terms so provide, a supplementary agreement in implementation of this article may modify, expand or add to any such obligation as among the parties to the supplementary agreement. b. In addition to the occurrences, circumstances and subject matters to which preceding articles of this compact make it applicable, this compact and the authorizations, entitlements and procedures thereof shall apply to: (1) searches for and rescue of persons who are lost, marooned, or otherwise in danger; (2) action useful in coping with disasters arising from any cause or designed to increase capability to cope with any such disasters; (3) incidents, or the imminence thereof, which endanger the health or safety of the public and which require the use of special equipment, trained personnel or personnel in larger numbers than are locally available in order to reduce, counteract or remove the danger; (4) the giving and receiving of aid by subdivisions of party states; (5) exercises, drills or other training or practice activities designed to aid personnel to prepare for, cope with, or prevent any disaster or other emergency to which this compact applies. c. Except as expressly limited by this compact or a supplementary agreement in force pursuant thereto, any aid authorized by this compact or such supplementary agreement may be furnished by any agency of a party state, a subdivision of such state, or by a joint agency of any two or more party states or of their subdivisions. Any joint agency providing such aid shall be entitled to reimbursement therefor to the same extent and in the same manner as a state. The personnel of such a joint agency, when rendering aid pursuant to this compact, shall have the same rights, authority and immunity as personnel of party states. d. Nothing in this article shall be construed to exclude from the coverage of Articles I through XIV of this compact any matter which, in the absence of this article, could reasonably be construed to be covered thereby. L.2007, c.116, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:21A-11 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 21A / Section 21A-11
Veteran Advocate, findings made public, limitations.
Status: in_force

11. a. The Veteran Advocate shall make public its significant findings of investigation reports or other studies undertaken by the office, including its significant investigatory findings to complaints received pursuant to section 4 of this act, P.L.2025, c.172 (C.38A:21A-4) and shall forward any publicly reported findings to the Governor, the Legislature, and the head of the department. The department shall be permitted to respond to investigation reports and other studies undertaken by the office and the response shall be made public. b. The Veteran Advocate shall not disclose: (1) any information that would likely endanger the life, safety, or physical or emotional well-being of a veteran, or the life or safety of a person who filed a complaint or a department employee, or which may compromise the integrity of a State or county department or agency investigation, civil or criminal investigation, or judicial or administrative proceeding; and (2) the name of or any other information identifying the person who filed a complaint with, or otherwise provided information to, the office without the written consent of that person. The information subject to the provisions of this subsection shall not be considered a public record pursuant to the provisions of P.L.1963, c.73 (C.47:1A-1 et seq.) and P.L.2001, c.404 (C.47:1A-5 et al.). c. The Veteran Advocate shall not disclose any information that may be deemed confidential by State or federal law or by a court order. L.2025, c.172, s.11.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:13-8 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 13 / Section 13-8
Death in line of duty; benefits
Status: in_force

In the event a member of the organized militia on active duty ordered by competent authority, is killed or dies within 2 years from injuries sustained in such line of duty, he shall, in addition to the benefits provided by section 38A:13-1, be entitled to have a lump sum death benefit of $7,500.00 paid by the State on his account. Such death benefit shall be paid to the deceased militiaman's wife, if any, otherwise to his children, if any, in equal shares, and otherwise to those who would be entitled to share in his estate if he had died intestate. L.1968, c. 278, s. 1, eff. Sept. 4, 1968.
N.J. Stat. § 38:23C-15 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 23C / Section 23C-15
Contract for purchase of property, recission, termination; cancellation of auto lease, due to certain military service.
Status: in_force

15. a. (1) No person who has received, or whose assignor has received, under a contract for the purchase of real or personal property, or of lease or bailment with a view to purchase of such property, a deposit or installment of the purchase price or a deposit or installment under the contract, lease or bailment from a person or from the assignor of a person who, after the date of payment of such deposit or installment, has entered military service, shall exercise any right or option under such contract to rescind or terminate the contract or resume possession of the property for nonpayment of any installment thereunder due or for any other breach of the terms thereof occurring prior to or during the period of such military service, except by action in a court of competent jurisdiction; provided, that nothing contained in this section shall prevent the modification, termination, or cancellation of any such contract, or prevent the repossession, retention, foreclosure, sale or taking possession of property purchased or received or which is security for any obligation under such contract, pursuant to a mutual agreement of the parties thereto, or their assignees, if such agreement is executed in writing subsequent to the making of such contract and during or after the period of military service of the person concerned. (2) Any person who has entered military service for a period of more than 90 consecutive days, who prior to such entry leased a non-commercial motor vehicle for personal use, whether with or without a view to purchase, may cancel the lease by giving written notice of cancellation to the lessor or the lessor's assignor at any time following the date of receipt of the order to enter such military service. Cancellation of a lease providing for monthly lease payments shall not be effective (1) until the last day of the month following the month in which notice of cancellation is made, or (2) when the leased motor vehicle is returned to the lessor or the lessor's assignor, whichever is later. Upon cancellation of the lease, the former lessee and any co-signer shall have no further liability to the lessor or the lessor's assignor, except that the lessee and any co-signer shall be obligated to the lessor or assignor for any damages to the motor vehicle and excess mileage over the pro rata amount permitted as of the date of cancellation of the lease. The lessor or lessor's assignor shall not impose any penalty or charge upon the lessee or any co-signer on the lease for early cancellation of the lease. This paragraph shall apply whether or not the person is the sole signatory of the lease. b. Any person who shall knowingly resume possession of property which is the subject of this section, other than as provided in paragraph a. of this section, or attempt so to do, shall be adjudged a disorderly person and shall be punished by imprisonment not to exceed six months, or by fine not to exceed $1,000, or both. c. Upon the hearing of such action, the court may order the repayment of prior installments or deposits or any part thereof, as a condition of terminating the contract and resuming possession of the property, or may, in its discretion, on its own motion, and shall, except as provided in section 17 of this act, on application to it by such person in military service or some person on his behalf, order a stay of proceedings as provided in this act except that such stay under this section may be ordered for the period of military service and six months thereafter or any part of such period, unless, in the opinion of the court, the ability of the defendant to comply with the terms of the contract is not materially affected by reason of such service; or it may make such other disposition of the case as may be equitable to conserve the interests of all parties. L.1979,c.317,s.15; amended 2003, c.304.
N.J. Stat. § 38:25A-8 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 25A / Section 25A-8
Forget-me-not as souvenir of Disabled American Veterans of World War
Status: in_force

After the passage of this act the forget-me-not, or its replica in any material form, shall be the recognized souvenir of the Disabled American Veterans of the World War. L.1939, c. 135, p. 458, s. 1, eff. July 1, 1939.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-47 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-47
Veterans Haven Councils.
Status: in_force

1. a. There is created within the Division of Veterans' Services in the Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs two advisory councils to be known as Veterans Haven North Council and Veterans Haven South Council. The Veterans Haven North Council shall represent the northern facility and the Veterans Haven South Council shall represent the southern facility. The two councils shall have joint meetings no less than once each calendar year. Each council shall consist of eight members, at least five of whom are veterans, and shall include no less than two women. The Deputy Commissioner of Veterans' Affairs, or a designee, shall serve as a nonvoting ex-officio member on each council. Each member shall be appointed by the Adjutant General with the approval of the Governor. The term of each council member shall be three years, except that of the first appointments pursuant to this section, two shall be for a term of one year, two for a term of two years, and three for a term of three years. At no time shall a member be allowed to serve more than two terms in the aggregate, or on both councils at the same time. b. The members of each council shall nominate a chairperson by majority vote of the members, and four members shall constitute a majority. The chairperson of each council shall be its presiding officer and shall serve until a successor has been nominated by the council. c. Any vacancy shall be filled for the unexpired term only. Members of the council shall be subject to removal by the Adjutant General at any time for good and sufficient cause. d. The members of the council shall receive no compensation for their services but shall be reimbursed for actual expenditures incurred in the performance of their duties within the limits of funds appropriated or otherwise made available for this purpose. L.2011, c.170, s.1; amended 2013, c.260, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 38:25-12 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 25 / Section 25-12
Preservation of record of proceedings of Spanish American war veterans; appropriation
Status: in_force

The state treasurer shall, upon the warrant of the comptroller, pay, on the first day of May in each year, on requisition of the department commander, Spanish American War Veterans, Department of New Jersey, the sum of one thousand dollars, to the assistant quartermaster of such department or to such other officer as shall be designated. Such sum shall be used for the compilation and preservation of the record of proceedings of the Spanish American War Veterans, Department of New Jersey.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:21-20 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 21 / Section 21-20
Drug testing, direct care staff member, veterans' memorial home.
Status: in_force

38A:21-20. a. As a condition of employment as a direct care staff member at a New Jersey veterans’ memorial home, an applicant for employment shall consent to and undergo drug testing for controlled dangerous substances as provided in subsection f. of this section. The drug testing shall be at the expense of the applicant. If a person applying for employment at a New Jersey veterans’ memorial home on or after April 16, 2020 tests positive for the unlawful use of any controlled dangerous substance, or refuses to submit to drug testing, the person shall be removed from consideration for employment. b. A person who is employed at a New Jersey veterans’ memorial home as a direct care staff member shall be subject to random drug testing for controlled dangerous substances performed at such intervals as the commissioner deems appropriate. The commissioner shall annually perform random drug tests on 100 direct care staff members. c. A person who is employed at a New Jersey veterans’ memorial home as a direct care staff member may be required to undergo drug testing for controlled dangerous substances if the employee's immediate supervisor has reasonable suspicion to believe that the employee is illegally using a controlled dangerous substance, based on the employee's visible impairment or professional misconduct, which relates adversely to patient care or safety. The supervisor shall report this information to the immediate supervisor in a form and manner specified by the commissioner, and if the supervisor concurs that there is reasonable suspicion to believe that an employee is illegally using a controlled dangerous substance, that supervisor shall notify the chief executive officer of the New Jersey veterans’ memorial home, or other executive level officer of the veterans’ memorial home designated by the commissioner, and request approval in writing for ordering the employee to undergo drug testing. Drug testing of an employee shall not be ordered without the written approval of the chief executive officer or other executive level officer designated by the commissioner. d. An employee who tests positive for the unlawful use of any controlled dangerous substance may be referred to employee advisory services or terminated from employment, as applicable, based on the employee's job title. An employee who refuses to submit to drug testing shall be terminated from employment. In all cases, however, the employee shall retain any available right of review by the Civil Service Commission. e. The drug testing required pursuant to subsections b. and c. of this section shall be at the expense of the Department of Veterans Affairs. f. Drug testing shall be performed by an outside drug testing facility in a manner prescribed by the commissioner. g. The commissioner shall notify all affected employees of New Jersey veterans’ memorial homes of the provisions of this section. h. As used in this section, "direct care staff member" means a: Human Services Technician; Human Services Assistant; physician; psychiatrist; dentist; psychologist; nurse; nurse assistant; physical, occupational, or speech therapist; social worker; and any other staff member employed by a veterans’ memorial home who provides direct care to a resident at the facility, as determined by the commissioner. i. Pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.), the commissioner shall adopt rules and regulations necessary to effectuate the purposes of this section, including, but not limited to, those rules and regulations necessary to ensure the confidentiality of the person undergoing drug testing, and that drug test results are not reported to law enforcement authorities. L.2025, c.139, s.18.
N.J. Stat. § 38:23B-17 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 23B / Section 23B-17
Business counsellors
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall establish in each community where there may be a need, a business counseling service of nonsalaried counsellors, to advise with and assist veterans who apply for or obtain business loans under this act. Such counsellors shall be persons of proved business judgment and established reputation in the community, and shall be designated by the commissioner. L.1944, c. 126, p. 349, s. 17. Amended by L.1947, c. 190, p. 840, s. 3, eff. May 23, 1947.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:12-5 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 12 / Section 12-5
Nonmilitary use.
Status: in_force

38A:12-5. The Adjutant General may lease, rent, or permit the use of any armory or other military facility, or any part thereof, for nonmilitary purposes, under such restrictions and for such compensation, if any, as he may by regulation prescribe. L.1963, c.109; amended 1984,c.181,s.25; 1988,c.138,s.17; 2025, c.139, s.93.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:2-8 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 2 / Section 2-8
Patriots Corner established.
Status: in_force

2. There shall be established a permanent tribute to the men and women who are actively serving in the United States Armed Forces, the reserve components and the New Jersey National Guard. The tribute shall be called the Patriots Corner. The State House Commission shall establish a prominent location for the tribute within the State House, the type of tribute and design, as well as what specific information is to be displayed. The displayed information may include a photograph and biography of each service member. The State House Commission shall also be responsible for obtaining the information needed for the tribute and maintaining the site. L.2009, c.274, s.2.
N.J. Stat. § 38:23C-3 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 23C / Section 23C-3
Sureties, guarantors, endorsers on obligation; stay of performance of enforcement; vacation of judgment or decree; waiver
Status: in_force

a. Whenever, pursuant to any of the provisions of this act, the enforcement of any obligation or liability, the prosecution of any suit or proceeding, the entry or enforcement of any order, writ, judgment or decree, or the performance of any act, may be stayed, postponed or suspended, such stay, postponement or suspension may, in the discretion of the court, likewise be granted to sureties, guarantors, endorsers and others subject to the obligation or liability, the performance or enforcement of which is stayed, postponed or suspended. b. When a judgment or decree is vacated or set aside, in whole or in part, as provided in this act, the same may, in the discretion of the court, likewise be set aside and vacated as to any surety, guarantor, endorsers, accommodation maker or other person whether primarily or secondarily liable upon the contract or liability for the enforcement of which the judgment or decree was entered. c. Nothing contained in this act shall prevent a waiver in writing of the benefits afforded by paragraphs a. and b. of this section by any surety, guarantor, endorser, accommodation maker, or other persons whether primarily or secondarily liable upon the obligation or liability except that after the date of enactment of this act no such waiver shall be valid unless it is executed as an instrument separate from the obligation or liability in respect of which it applies, and no such waiver shall be valid after the beginning of the period of military service if executed by an individual who, subsequent to the execution of such waiver becomes a person in military service. L.1979, c. 317, s. 3, eff. Jan. 18, 1980.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:23-19 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 23 / Section 23-19
Weekly report, status of State veterans' memorial homes, public health emergency.
Status: in_force

38A:23-19. a. Notwithstanding the provisions of any law, rule, or regulation to the contrary, the Commissioner of the Department of Veterans Affairs shall transmit a weekly report on the status of the State veterans' memorial homes to the Commissioner of the Department of Health whenever a public health emergency, pursuant to the "Emergency Health Powers Act," P.L.2005, c.222 (C.26:13-1 et seq.), has been declared by the Governor and is in effect. The weekly report shall include: (1) the number of residents and staff in each veterans' home, including comparisons to previous reports; (2) any significant health risks posed to the residents and staff in each veterans' home due to the public health emergency; (3) any changes in operating procedures in each veterans' home due to the public health emergency; and (4) the amount of personal protective equipment available to residents and staff at each veterans' home. b. As used in this section: (1) "veterans' home" means the New Jersey Veterans' Memorial Home-Menlo Park, the New Jersey Veterans' Memorial Home-Vineland, and the New Jersey Veterans' Memorial Home-Paramus. (2) "personal protective equipment" means any items commonly used to protect an individual from bacterial or viral infections, including, but not limited to, disinfecting wipes, disposable gloves, disposable gowns, face shields, N95 face masks, surgical masks, or parts thereof. L.2025, c.139, s.41.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:11-2 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 11 / Section 11-2
Bonds of officers responsible for funds and public property
Status: in_force

Any officer to whom military property of the United States or of this State is issued, or to whom public money is paid, or who holds and disburses any military funds, shall be required to give bond with surety conditioned faithfully to perform the duties of his office and to account properly for all property, moneys or funds received and disbursed by him. Such bonds shall be in amount, form and with surety satisfactory to the Adjutant General and filed in his office. The premiums thereon shall be paid by the State. L.1963, c. 109. Amended by L.1984, c. 181, s. 19, eff. Nov. 14, 1984.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:10-8 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 10 / Section 10-8
Indemnity for action of military court
Status: in_force

No action or proceedings for damages shall be prosecuted or maintained against a member of a military court, or persons acting under its authority or reviewing its proceedings on account of the approval, or imposition or collection of any fine or other penalty, or the execution of any warrant, writ or other process of a military court. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:18-1 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 18 / Section 18-1
"Emergency" defined
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter the term "emergency" shall mean and include invasion or other hostile action, disaster, insurrection or imminent danger thereof. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:25-2 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 25 / Section 25-2
Definitions.
Status: in_force

38A:25-2. As used in this section and N.J.S.38A:25-3: "Gold Star family member" means an individual who is a New Jersey resident and is the surviving spouse, domestic partner, partner in a civil union, parent, brother, sister, child, legal guardian, or other legal custodian, whether of the whole blood or the half blood, or by adoption, of a member of the Armed Forces of the United States or the National Guard who died while on active duty for the United States. "Mental health care professional" means a person who provides mental health services and is licensed or otherwise authorized, pursuant to Title 45 of the Revised Statutes, to practice a health care profession that is regulated by one of the following: the State Board of Medical Examiners; the State Board of Psychological Examiners; the State Board of Social Work Examiners; the State Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners; the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee; the Professional Counselor Examiners Committee; or the Certified Psychoanalysts Advisory Committee. L.2025, c.139, s.59.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-46b — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-46b
Pro bono legal representation, active-duty members, United States Armed Forces, Reserve component.
Status: in_force

1. The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs shall provide information to active-duty members of the United States Armed Forces and a Reserve component thereof, including the National Guard, and veterans of the military about available programs and organizations that provide pro bono legal representation to active-duty members and veterans in various areas of civil law including, but not limited to, family law, estate planning, employment law, immigration law, debtor-creditor law and military administrative law. The Department shall make this information, which shall include a list of participating pro bono legal service providers, including law firms or attorneys, available on its website. L.2023, c.91.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:12-7 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 12 / Section 12-7
Use of proceeds.
Status: in_force

38A:12-7. The proceeds of any sale made pursuant to N.J.S.38A:12-6 shall be deposited as received with the State Treasurer and maintained by him in a separate account. Moneys credited to such an account shall be appropriated and used for the purchase of real property or for the construction, alteration, or renovation of buildings for the use of the militia. L.1963, c. 109; amended 2025, c.139, s.95.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:13-6 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 13 / Section 13-6
Limitation on claims
Status: in_force

A claim shall not be allowed unless it is presented to the Adjutant General within two years from the date of the injury, disease, disability or death. A claim which has been adjudicated or modified may be reopened at any time by the Adjutant General on the ground that the incapacitation has subsequently increased or decreased. L.1963, c. 109. Amended by L.1984, c. 181, s. 31, eff. Nov. 14, 1984.
N.J. Stat. § 38:23A-4 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 23A / Section 23A-4
"Veteran" and "present emergency" defined
Status: in_force

1. The word "veteran" as used in this act shall mean any person who served in the active military or naval service of the United States on or after September 16, 1940, and prior to the termination of the war by lawful federal authority, or during the present emergency, including any member of the American Merchant Marine who is declared by the United States Department of Defense to be eligible for federal veterans' benefits, who was a resident of this State when he entered such active service, who shall have been discharged, or released, therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable and who either shall have served 90 days or shall have been discharged or released from active duty by reason of an actual service-incurred injury or disability. The term "present emergency" as used in this act shall mean and include any time after June 23, 1950, and on or prior to January 31, 1955. L.1946,c.51,s.1; amended 1952,c.116; 1991,c.389,s.17.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:21A-8 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 21A / Section 21A-8
Veteran Advocate, additional powers, litigation, administrative proceedings.
Status: in_force

8. a. In addition to the powers granted in section 4 of this act, the Veteran Advocate may: (1) intervene in or institute litigation, including appearing in the capacity of an amicus curiae, as appropriate, on any matters within the jurisdiction of the Veteran Advocate set forth in P.L.2025, c.172 (C.38A:21A-1 et al.), and consistent with the provisions thereof, including, but not limited to, section 3 thereof, or (2) intervene in or institute administrative proceedings before the department, assert the broad public interest of the State in the welfare of veterans, and protect and promote the rights of veterans. In taking such actions, the Veteran Advocate shall consider whether a veteran may be in need of assistance from the Veteran Advocate or whether there is a systemic issue in the department’s provision of services to veterans that should be addressed. The Veteran Advocate shall make a good faith effort to resolve issues or problems and shall have the authority to commence negotiations, mediation, or alternative dispute resolution in its advocacy efforts prior to, or in lieu of, the initiation of any action brought pursuant to this section. The Veteran Advocate shall not have the authority to negotiate, mediate, or commence any other dispute resolution in matters when such engagement would conflict with any applicable collective bargaining agreements, State contracts, or any State or federal law or court order. b. The Veteran Advocate shall have discretion to decide whether to intervene in any particular matter within the jurisdiction of the Veteran Advocate set forth in P.L.2025, c.172 (C.38A:21A-1 et al.), or to represent or refrain from representing the public interest in a proceeding pursuant to subsection a. of this section. The Veteran Advocate shall consider, in exercising the Veteran Advocate’s discretion, the resources available, the importance and extent of the public interest involved, and whether that interest would be adequately represented without the action of the office. L.2025, c.172, s.8.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:21-30 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 21 / Section 21-30
Website, information on war battles, places of historic significance to military, war efforts in New Jersey.
Status: in_force

38A:21-30. a. The Department of Veterans Affairs, in consultation with the Division of Travel and Tourism in the Department of State and the New Jersey Historical Commission, shall develop and maintain a website providing information detailing war battles fought and places of historic significance to the military or war efforts in New Jersey. The website shall: (1) specify the date and location, and describe the importance, of each battle that took place on lands within the State or in State waters and (2) identify, and describe the importance of, locations within the State or in State waters that are, or have been, significant to the military or war efforts, such as those locations used for military operations or training or those locations which house, berth, or preserve historic military equipment, vehicles, or vessels, including battleships, fighter planes, and tanks. The information on the website shall be available as a list and in an online tour format, and shall include, but need not be limited to, information pertaining to battles fought and places that are of historic significance to military actions or war efforts undertaken during the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. b. The department shall be entitled to call to its assistance and avail itself of the services of the employees of any State, county, or municipal department, authority, board, bureau, commission, agency, or entity, or of Rutgers, The State University or any other public institution of higher education in the State, as it may require and as may be available to it for the purpose of carrying out its duties under this act, N.J.S.38A:21-1 et al. L.2025, c.139, s.57.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:10-7 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 10 / Section 10-7
Payment of fines; disposition
Status: in_force

Fines shall be paid to the court imposing them, to the civil officer executing its process, or to the commanding officer of the organization of which the accused is a member. All fines imposed and collected by reason of the sentence of any court-martial, except such as may be payable to the United States, shall be paid into the organization fund of which the person is a member, and shall be accounted for in the same manner as other funds of such organization. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38:23B-23 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 23B / Section 23B-23
Loans to minor veterans
Status: in_force

Any contract, promissory note or other written obligation, pledge, mortgage or conveyance, made or endorsed or joined in by any person over eighteen years of age, for himself or as husband or wife of any other person or in any other capacity, and under twenty-one years of age, to any person, firm, association or corporation or to any governmental agency or corporation, either State or Federal, to repay, or secure payment of, a veteran's loan under the provisions of Title III, Public Law 346, Seventy-eighth Congress of the United States (Chapter 268-2d Session) approved June twenty-second, one thousand nine hundred and forty-four, known as the "Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944," or under the provisions of Titles I or II of the Bankhead-Jones Farm Tenant Act, 7 U.S.C. 1000 to 1029, Public Law 210, Seventy-fifth Congress of the United States, approved July twenty-second, one thousand nine hundred and thirty-seven, as amended by the Farmers' Home Administration Act of 1946, Public Law 731, Seventy-ninth Congress of the United States, approved August fourteenth, one thousand nine hundred and forty-six, or other similar Federal legislation, and of any act amendatory thereof or supplemental thereto, or under the provisions of "An act to provide for guaranteed or insured bank loans to certain war veterans for the purposes of establishing or re-establishing themselves in small businesses or professions, and of enabling them to purchase household furnishings and household appliances required by them for use in their homes, and providing appropriations therefor," approved April fourteenth, one thousand nine hundred and forty-four (P.L.1944, c. 126) as said title was amended by chapter one hundred twenty-one of the laws of one thousand nine hundred and forty-six, and of any act amendatory thereof or supplemental thereto, or payment whereof is guaranteed or insured by any such governmental agency or corporation as such a veteran's loan or which forms part of the same transaction as the making of such veteran's loan, shall, notwithstanding any provisions of law to the contrary, be as valid and binding as if said person were, at the time of making and executing or endorsing or joining in the same, of the age of twenty-one years and may be enforced in any action or proceeding by and against such person in his or her own name and shall be valid without the consent thereto of the parent or guardian of such person; and such person shall not disaffirm such instrument because of his or her age, nor shall any such person hereafter interpose the defense that he or she is, or was at the time of making and executing or endorsing or joining in such instrument, a minor, in any action or proceeding arising out of any such veteran's loan. L.1946, c. 134, p. 620, s. 1. Amended by L.1947, c. 189, p. 835, s. 2, eff. May 23, 1947.
N.J. Stat. § 38:23C-5 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 23C / Section 23C-5
False affidavits; perjury
Status: in_force

Any person who shall make or use an affidavit required under section 4, above, knowing it to be false, shall be guilty of perjury. L.1979, c. 317, s. 5, eff. Jan. 18, 1980.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:21-14 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 21 / Section 21-14
Department of Veterans Affairs, annual budget.
Status: in_force

38A:21-14. a. The department shall submit its annual budget request directly to the Governor and the State Treasurer. b. The commissioner may demand and receive, for the services of the department, except for establishment of veteran status, such fees as the commissioner shall determine. The commissioner shall keep a true record and account of fees received on behalf of the department pursuant to this section and shall pay the same into the State Treasury in the manner prescribed by law. L.2025, c.139, s.12.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:2-7 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 2 / Section 2-7
Findings, declarations relative to a permanent tribute to residents serving in the armed forces.
Status: in_force

1. The Legislature finds and declares that: a. There are many men and women of this State who bravely serve this Nation and State in the United States Armed Forces, the reserve components and the New Jersey National Guard; and b. These brave men and women are true patriots who gallantly protect America from potential enemies to ensure our freedom and our way of life; and c. Although there are memorials to those who have given their lives in the service of our country, there does not exist a proper tribute to those on active service in the United States Armed Forces, the reserve components and the New Jersey National Guard; and d. It is fitting and proper that this State honor those actively serving by providing a tribute to them. L.2009, c.274, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 38:23C-16 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 23C / Section 23C-16
Application to obligations; discretion of court; foreclosure
Status: in_force

a. The provisions of this section shall apply only to obligations secured by mortgage, trust deed, or other security in the nature of a mortgage upon real or personal property owned by a person in military service at the commencement of the period of his military service and still so owned by him which obligations originated prior to such person's period of military service. b. In any proceeding commenced in any court during the period of military service to enforce such obligation arising out of nonpayment of any sum thereunder due or out of any other breach of the terms thereof occurring prior to or during the period of such service the court may, after hearing, in its discretion, on its own motion, and shall, except as hereinafter provided in this act, on application to it by such person in military service or some person on his behalf, unless in the opinion of the court the ability of the defendant to comply with the terms of the obligation is not materially affected by reason of his military service: (1) Stay the proceedings as provided in this act; or (2) Make such other disposition of the case as may be equitable to conserve the interest of all parties. c. No sale, foreclosure, or seizure of property for nonpayment of any sum due under any such obligation, or for any other breach of the terms thereof, whether under a power of sale, under a judgment entered upon warrant of attorney to confess judgment contained therein, or otherwise, shall be valid if made during the period of military service, or within 3 months thereafter, unless upon an order of sale previously granted by the court and a return thereto made and approved by the court. d. Any person who shall knowingly cause to be made any sale, foreclosure or seizure of property defined as invalid by paragraph c. hereof, or attempts so to do, shall be adjudged a disorderly person and shall be punished by imprisonment not to exceed 6 months, or by fine not to exceed $1,000.00, or both. L.1979, c. 317, s. 16, eff. Jan. 18, 1980.
N.J. Stat. § 38:17-3 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 17 / Section 17-3
Restriction as to interment; headstone; definitions.
Status: in_force

38:17-3. Any interment provided for by sections 38:17-1 to 38:17-8 of this title shall not be made in any cemetery or plot used exclusively for the burial of pauper dead, but may be made in a county veterans' cemetery or, if appropriate, the Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans' Memorial Cemetery or a National Cemetery. The graves of any such deceased indigent veterans discharged under conditions other than dishonorable may be marked by a headstone containing the name of the deceased and, if possible, the organization to which he belonged or in which he served. Such headstone shall be of such design and materials as shall be approved by the governor, adjutant general and quartermaster general. For the purposes of this section: "Indigent" shall mean a person who has an income that is below 200 percent of the federal poverty level; and "Poverty level" shall mean the official poverty level based on family size established and adjusted under Section 673(2) of Subtitle B. of the federal "Community Services Block Grant Act," Pub.L.97-35 (42 U.S.C. s.9902(2)). amended 2013, c.238, s.3; 2023, c.17, s.3.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:21A-9 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 21A / Section 21A-9
Veteran Advocate to seek approval of certain parties to conduct investigation.
Status: in_force

9. a. The Veteran Advocate shall seek the approval of a veteran, the veteran’s estate, or adult guardian, as applicable, or obtain the approval of a court of competent jurisdiction, to conduct an investigation authorized under the provisions of this act, P.L.2025, c.172 (C.38A:21A-1 et al.). b. If court approval is sought, the court, in reviewing an application for approval, shall consider the investigative needs of the Veteran Advocate. Upon consideration of the factors in this subsection, the court may order any alternative methods for obtaining the required information. L.2025, c.172, s.9.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:21-33 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 21 / Section 21-33
Discharge status change, separation due solely to sexual orientation, gender identity, expression.
Status: in_force

38A:21-33. a. All former service members of the Armed Forces who were separated from the service with a general or other than honorable discharge due solely to their sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression, may request that the Department of Veterans Affairs assist them to have the designation on the discharge changed and recorded as honorable. b. The Department of Veterans Affairs shall: (1) create, publish, and distribute material to all public agencies of the availability of the assistance; and (2) create a consistent and uniform process to assist a former service member with the appropriate and necessary forms and conditions prescribed by federal law so that service member may petition the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, or its successor agency, to change the designation on the discharge to honorable. At no time shall a fee be charged to a former service member for seeking assistance to have the designation on the discharge changed to honorable. c. A former service member who has the designation of discharge changed to honorable shall be afforded the same rights, privileges, and benefits authorized by State law to service members who were honorably discharged. d. Information related to the change in the designation of a discharge, including, but not limited to, a request for assistance, shall be confidential and not accessible to the public as a government record pursuant to P.L.1963, c.73 (C.47:1A-1 et seq.). e. The commissioner shall, in accordance with the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.), adopt any rules and regulations as the commissioner deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this section. L.2025, c.139, s.65.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-45 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-45
Reports to Governor, Legislature, Deputy Commissioner.
Status: in_force

8. The commission shall prepare and submit an initial report to the Governor, the Legislature, pursuant to section 2 of P.L.1991, c.164 (C.52:14-19.1), and the Deputy Commissioner of Veterans' Affairs within six months of the organization of the commission. The commission shall prepare and submit annual reports containing its findings, activities and recommendations, including any recommendations for administrative and legislative action that it deems appropriate, to the Governor, the Legislature and the Deputy Commissioner of Veterans' Affairs. The commission shall periodically advise the Deputy Commissioner of Veterans' Affairs on its activities, findings and recommendations. L.2007, c.319, s.8.
N.J. Stat. § 38:25-8 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 25 / Section 25-8
Adjutant general relieved of certain duties; proceedings of encampments of G.A.R. furnished for state archives
Status: in_force

L.1921, c. 156, p. 434 (1924 Suppl. s.s. 129-327 to 129-329), entitled "An act to relieve the adjutant general of this state from certain duties assigned to him and to provide assistance to the Department of New Jersey, Grand Army of the Republic," approved April seventh, one thousand nine hundred and twenty-one, saved from repeal. [This act provides for the relief of certain duties assigned to the adjutant general under an act entitled "An act to make the proceedings of the Department of New Jersey, of the Grand Army of the Republic, a part of the military archives of this state and to provide for the printing of the same," approved March twenty-third, one thousand nine hundred and ten, and supplement thereto, approved April twentieth, one thousand nine hundred and twenty. The 1921 act also provides for an appropriation of one thousand dollars to the Department of New Jersey, Grand Army of the Republic, and further provides for copies of proceedings of the annual encampment of the department to be furnished for the archives of the state.]
N.J. Stat. § 38A:21-13 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 21 / Section 21-13
Department of Veterans Affairs personnel.
Status: in_force

38A:21-13. The personnel of the Department of Veterans Affairs shall consist of the following classes of employees: a. Classified civil service employees. b. Unclassified civil service employees, who may be relieved, suspended, or discharged for good cause. Such personnel shall be administered as far as practicable under similar regulations as those applicable to classified civil service. L.2025, c.139, s.11.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-51 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-51
Findings, declarations relative to a Gold Star Family Counseling program.
Status: in_force

1. The Legislature finds and declares that: a. Residents of New Jersey have answered the call to fight for our country many times as members of the United States military and as members of the New Jersey National Guard. b. Throughout history, New Jersey residents have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country and have given their life for our freedom. c. The family members left behind after the untimely deaths of these brave service members, known as Gold Star family members, are often left with emotional wounds who need the caring intervention of a mental health professional to grieve and learn to live with the new reality of their loved one's passing. d. The United States Department of Veterans Affairs has taken the lead to provide mental health care to veterans and certain family members with the establishment of the Care Enough to Share program which links mental health professionals with an opportunity to volunteer their time and talents to help the nation's veterans and certain family members by providing mental health counseling. e. It is honorable and necessary that the State of New Jersey assist these family Gold Star family members in their grief by establishing programs that can link mental health care professionals with the family members to provide the needed mental health care free of charge to the families. L.2017, c.174, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:11-13 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 11 / Section 11-13
Military property exempt from process of law.
Status: in_force

The uniforms, arms and equipment, and other military property of the United States or this State shall be exempt from every process of law, except as otherwise provided in the chapter. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:10-10 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 10 / Section 10-10
Fees of civil officers; costs; records
Status: in_force

Fees for services of civil officers shall be the same as provided by law for services in civil courts. Costs will be levied and disbursed by the court. Records of all fees, costs and disbursements shall be kept in the headquarters of the organization concerned. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:4-1 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 4 / Section 4-1
Eligibility, qualifications and administration
Status: in_force

Officers and enlisted members of the organized militia shall be commissioned, warranted or enlisted with such qualifications and administered under such regulations as the Governor may prescribe except as otherwise prescribed by applicable Federal laws or regulations or by this Title. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:5-4 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 5 / Section 5-4
Acceptance of commission not to vacate civil office
Status: in_force

Any citizen of this State may accept and hold a commission in the militia or in any reserve component of the Armed Forces of the United States, without thereby vacating any civil office or position held. The acceptance or holding of any such commission shall not constitute holding of an office of trust or profit under the government of this State or of the United States incompatible with the holding of any civil office or position under the government of this State. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:2-9 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 2 / Section 2-9
Patriots Corner Tribute Fund.
Status: in_force

3. There is created in the Department of the Treasury a special, non-lapsing fund to be known as the Patriots Corner Tribute Fund. There shall be deposited into the fund the amounts made available for the purposes of the fund and monetary donations that may be received from any source for the purposes of the fund and any interest earned thereon. Monies deposited in the fund shall be dedicated for the support and funding of the establishment and maintenance of the Patriots Corner and projects concerned with the Patriots Corner. L.2009, c.274, s.3.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:11-11 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 11 / Section 11-11
Delivery of property.
Status: in_force

On finding such property, the court issuing such warrant shall order the property to be delivered to the officer making the complaint. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-42 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-42
Meetings, hearings.
Status: in_force

5. The commission shall meet at the call of the chairperson and hold hearings at such places as it shall designate. A meeting of the commission may also be called upon the request of eight of the commission members and eight members of the commission shall constitute a quorum at any meeting thereof. The commission shall meet not less than quarterly. L.2007, c.319, s.5.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-6.4d — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-6.4d
Compilation of results of follow-up studies; reports.
Status: in_force

4. a. The Adjutant General shall compile the results of the follow-up studies conducted pursuant to section 3 of this act and shall include this information in a series of reports that the Adjutant General shall submit to the Governor, and to the Legislature pursuant to section 2 of P.L.1991, c.164 (C.52:14-19.1). b. The report of a follow-up study of the well-being of all former residents of State veterans' memorial homes, who have made a transition into the community after the effective date of this act as a result of implementation of a plan to close a State veterans' memorial home, shall be submitted one year after the beginning of implementation of the plan, and annually thereafter, until the veterans' memorial home has closed. In addition, for each of the five years after the closure of a home, a report of a follow-up study of the well-being of all former residents of the home shall be submitted. c. Reports submitted pursuant to this section shall be made available on the website of the Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs. L.2015, c.197, s.4.
N.J. Stat. § 38:23C-17 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 23C / Section 23C-17
Payment of sum as condition of foreclosure, or rescission or termination of contract
Status: in_force

Where a proceeding to foreclose a mortgage upon or to resume possession of personal property, or to rescind or terminate a contract for the purchase thereof, has been stayed as provided in this act, the court may, unless in its opinion an undue hardship would result to the dependents of the person in military service, appoint three disinterested parties to appraise the property and, based upon the report of the appraisers, order such sum, if any, as may be just, paid to the person in military service or his dependent, as the case may be, as a condition of foreclosing the mortgage, resuming possession of the property, or rescinding or terminating the contract. L.1979, c. 317, s. 17, eff. Jan. 18, 1980.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:8-3 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 8 / Section 8-3
Inactive Naval Militia
Status: in_force

There may be an inactive Naval Militia consisting of officers and enlisted members. Regulations governing the same will be as prescribed by the Governor. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-6.20 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-6.20
Provision of registry of volunteer mentors, Veterans Diversion Resource Program entities.
Status: in_force

13. a. The Adjutant General of the Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs shall provide county prosecutors with a registry of volunteer mentors developed pursuant to subsection (bb) of N.J.S.38A:3-6 to facilitate the assignment of mentors to eligible servicemembers who have been admitted by the prosecutor into the Veterans Diversion Program established pursuant to P.L.2017, c.42 (C.2C:43-23 et al.). A copy of the registry shall also be provided to the Administrative Director of the Courts to facilitate the assignment of mentors to eligible servicemembers who have been sentenced to a term of probation supervision. The registry of mentors shall be periodically updated by the Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs. b. The Adjutant General of the Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs shall also prepare and disseminate a directory of Veterans Diversion Resource Program entities currently available within New Jersey pursuant to P.L.2017, c.42 (C.2C:43-23 et al.). L.2017, c.42, s.13.
N.J. Stat. § 38:23C-1 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 23C / Section 23C-1
Policy
Status: in_force

It is hereby declared to be the public policy of the State to maintain, secure and protect the civil and property rights of persons in the military service, as hereinafter defined, and of employees who are members of the organized militia or members of a reserve component of the Armed Forces of the United States. All the provisions of this act shall be liberally construed for the accomplishment of this purpose. This act shall be deemed an exercise of the police power of the State, for the protection of the public welfare, prosperity, health and peace of the people of the State. L.1979, c. 317, s. 1, eff. Jan. 18, 1980.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:13-12 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 13 / Section 13-12
List of credentialed health care providers.
Status: in_force

3. University Behavioral Healthcare of Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey shall maintain a list of credentialed military-oriented behavioral healthcare providers throughout the State of New Jersey. Case management services shall also be provided to ensure that veterans, service members, and their families receive ongoing counseling throughout all pre and post deployment events in New Jersey. The continuum of services shall utilize the National Yellow Ribbon guidelines while providing ongoing peer support customized for each branch of military service. L.2011, c.116, s.3; amended 2012, c.45, s.122.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-58 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-58
Strategic plan, reports.
Status: in_force

3. The commission shall prepare and submit an initial five-year strategic plan to the Governor, and to the Legislature pursuant to section 2 of P.L.1991, c.164 (C.52:14-19.1), within six months of the organization of the commission. Thereafter, the commission shall prepare and submit annual reports to the Governor and the Legislature containing its findings, activities and recommendations, including any recommendations for administrative and legislative action that it deems appropriate. L.2017, c.375, s.3.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-7 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-7
Rank and precedence
Status: in_force

The Adjutant General shall take rank and precedence above all other officers of the militia. L.1963, c. 109. Amended by L.1984, c. 181, s. 11, eff. Nov. 14, 1984.
N.J. Stat. § 38:18-2 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 18 / Section 18-2
Compensation to blind veterans, spouses
Status: in_force

38:18-2. A soldier, who has sustained a total loss of sight as a result of his service during any of the wars mentioned in R.S.38:18-1, shall be paid for the term of his life, and upon his death his surviving spouse shall be paid, provided that the soldier or surviving spouse shall continue as a resident of this State, the sum of $1,800 annually, in monthly payments. Such payments shall be due and payable from the date of discharge or release of the soldier if application therefor shall be made within one year from the date of such discharge or release. If the application shall be made one year from the date of discharge or release of the soldier such payments shall be due and payable from the date of such application. Accrued payments to the date of certification shall be paid in one lump sum. Amended by L. 1945, c. 106, p. 454, s. 2; L. 1946, c. 85, p. 294, s. 2; L. 1971, c. 329, s. 1, eff. Jan. 1, 1971; L. 1985, c. 116, s. 1, eff. April 9, 1985; amended 2022, c.105, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-2.3 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-2.3
Application of State Agency Transfer Act
Status: in_force

The transfer directed by this act will be made in accordance with the "State Agency Transfer Act," P.L.1971, c. 375 (C. 52:14D-1 et seq.). L.1973, c. 284, s. 3, eff. Nov. 30, 1973.
N.J. Stat. § 38:25-13 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 25 / Section 25-13
Copies of proceedings for state archives
Status: in_force

The commander of the Department of New Jersey, Spanish American War Veterans, shall furnish to the adjutant general twenty bound copies of the proceedings for the archives of this state.
N.J. Stat. § 38:23B-14.1 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 23B / Section 23B-14.1
Insurance or guaranty; election by bank
Status: in_force

The authority is hereby authorized and empowered to insure or guaranty, whichever any bank may elect in accordance with the provisions of section eight hereof, all veterans' loans heretofore or hereafter made by such bank, to the extent provided in section nine or section ten hereof respectively. L.1945, c. 185, p. 628, s. 7.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-19 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-19
Purpose of council; responsibilities.
Status: in_force

5. The council shall: a. Be a structural liaison and public relations body on behalf of this State in all matters relating to federal military and naval installations located within this State or proposed to be located herein. The council shall communicate and cooperate with the President of the United States and with all other federal officials and employees and private persons for the effectuation of the purposes of this act. b. Work with the public and private sectors to maximize the quality of life for all military personnel and their dependents by facilitating access to government services, educational institutions, recreation facilities, and job opportunities. c. Increase public awareness of military missions performed in New Jersey and the economic impact they have on this State and its citizens. d. Work with the State and local governments to improve the effectiveness of military installations by facilitating coordinated planning and expedited review of military and Coast Guard permits and other requests. e. Work with the State and local governments and military and Coast Guard installations to minimize encroachment around military and Coast Guard installations. f. Convene meetings at least twice a year with installation commanders to discuss how New Jersey can more effectively support military and Coast Guard installations in the State. L.1992,c.86,s.5; amended 2005, c.40, s.2.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:14-6 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 14 / Section 14-6
Trespass upon or destruction or damage of militia property
Status: in_force

Any person who willfully trespasses upon any camp or parade ground, rifle range, armory or property lawfully used by or in connection with the militia, or any part thereof, or injures any property situated thereon, or willfully violates thereon any regulations established to maintain order, preserve property or prevent accidents upon such property, or removes, mutilates or destroys any such property shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:2-4 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 2 / Section 2-4
Militia ordered to active duty in certain cases
Status: in_force

The Governor may, in case of insurrection, invasion, tumult, riot, breach of the peace, natural disaster, or imminent danger to public safety, order to active duty all or any part of the militia that he may deem necessary. He may maintain such forces on such active duty until the exigencies shall have passed. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:21A-1 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 21A / Section 21A-1
Office of the Veteran Advocate established.
Status: in_force

1. There is established the Office of the Veteran Advocate in the Executive Branch of the State Government. For purposes of complying with Article V, Section IV, paragraph 1 of the New Jersey Constitution, the office is allocated within the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, but notwithstanding the allocation, the office shall be independent of any supervision or control by the department, or a division, office, or officer thereof, in the performance of its duties. If there is established a Department of Veterans Affairs separate from the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, the Office of the Veteran Advocate shall be established in the Department of Veterans Affairs. If the Department of Veterans Affairs is established after the effective date of this act, then the Office of the Veteran Advocate shall be transferred to be in, but not of, the Department of Veterans Affairs, pursuant to the “State Agency Transfer Act,” P.L.1971, c.375 (C.52:14D-1 et seq.). All references in this act to the department shall mean the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. If there is established a Department of Veterans Affairs, all references to the department in this act shall thereafter mean the Department of Veterans Affairs. L.2025, c.172, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:23-2 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 23 / Section 23-2
Application for admission to veterans' facility.
Status: in_force

38A:23-2. All applications for admission to a veterans' facility shall be made to, and in the manner and form prescribed by, the commissioner. The applicant shall provide a statement that the applicant will accept placement in the facility designated by the commissioner and will abide by the rules, regulations, and discipline of the facility to which the applicant is admitted. L.2025, c.139, s.24.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:13-9 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 13 / Section 13-9
Death benefit.
Status: in_force

2. The death benefit provided for in section 1 of P.L.1968, c.278 (C.38A:13-8) shall not be payable where there is a lump sum death benefit payable as a result of the deceased militiaman's membership in a public employees' pension system or when the militiaman was detailed to the Department of Military Affairs in a permanent duty status and entitled to benefits out of federal funds. L.1968, c.278, s.2; amended 1988,c.138,s.19; 2025, c.139, s.86.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-1.1 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-1.1
Findings, declarations.
Status: in_force

1. The Legislature finds and declares: a. Since the establishment of this State more than 200 years ago, New Jersey's veterans have maintained their proud allegiance to the United States and have fought and died to preserve and protect our freedom and way of life; b. Presently there are approximately 900,000 veterans with service in time of war or conflict residing in New Jersey, including more than 10,000 World War I veterans, 406,000 World War II veterans, 202,000 veterans of the Korean conflict, 203,000 veterans of the Vietnam conflict, 30,000 women veterans, and veterans of the Lebanon and Grenada peacekeeping missions; c. The Departments of Higher Education, Human Services, Labor, and the Treasury provide special services and benefits to these veterans and their dependents; d. The Department of Human Services, which is the principal government agency that serves this State's veterans, has done an especially commendable job attending to this special group of residents; and e (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2025, c.139) f. It is in the public interest to incorporate various services and programs which pertain specifically to veterans and their dependents into an executive department which can serve their needs more efficiently than is possible at present. L. 1987, c. 444, s. 1; amended 2025, c.139, s.72.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:21-32 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 21 / Section 21-32
Statewide veterans' benefits strategic plan.
Status: in_force

38A:21-32. a. It shall be the duty of the New Jersey Commission on Veterans Benefits to develop, maintain, and annually update a five-year Statewide veterans' benefits strategic plan that includes goals and measurable outcomes to ensure that all State departments and agencies are effectively delivering comprehensive services and support for veterans and their families in this State. b. In developing and updating the strategic plan, the commission shall conduct an analysis to identify the various programs and benefits provided by the State to the veteran population and to evaluate those programs to assess their status and effectiveness. Areas of analysis shall include, but need not be limited to, each existing program's status, successes, and challenges in addressing the veteran population's: (1) access to benefits; (2) educational, job skills, employment, and business opportunities; (3) physical and behavioral health and long-term healthcare options; (4) criminal justice issues; (5) housing opportunities and homelessness; and (6) special needs as determined by the commission. The strategic plan shall be based upon comprehensive data gained through open and transparent engagement with State departments and agencies and veterans' stakeholders. c. The commission shall develop recommendations to be submitted to the Governor and the Legislature to address any deficiencies in the provision of benefits and services to veterans in this State. The recommendations shall specifically address whether the existing State programs, services, and resources are adequate to meet the veteran population's existing needs; are being used to fulfill objectives in a manner that complements and leverages State, federal, and private resources; and how they may more effectively deliver veteran services to all current and future veterans in the State of New Jersey. d. The commission shall prepare and submit an initial five-year strategic plan to the Governor and to the Legislature pursuant to section 2 of P.L.1991, c.164 (C.52:14-19.1). Thereafter, the commission shall prepare and submit annual reports to the Governor and the Legislature containing its findings, activities, and recommendations, including any recommendations for administrative and legislative action that it deems appropriate. L.2025, c.139, s.64.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:5-9 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 5 / Section 5-9
Unassigned list
Status: in_force

There shall be an unassigned list for officers. An officer may be included in the unassigned list: (a) Pending acceptance of his resignation, or (b) Pending his retirement as otherwise provided by this Title, or (c) Pending withdrawal or termination of his Federal recognition, or (d) Pending separation following unfavorable review of the recommendations or findings of a board of examination or a court-martial. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:15-9 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 15 / Section 15-9
List of possessors of Gold Star Family license plate, driver's license, identification card; fraudulent use; violations, penalties.
Status: in_force

1. a. The department shall maintain a list of each person possessing a Gold Star Family license plate, issued pursuant to section 2 of P.L.2011, c.17 (C.39:3-27.142), and each person holding a driver's license or identification card with a Gold Star Family designation, issued pursuant to section 1 of P.L.2013, c.165 (C.39:3-10f6) or section 2 of P.L.1980, c.47 (C.39:3-29.3), respectively. The department shall distribute the list to the appropriate representative of a State veteran service entity in each county. b. It shall be unlawful for any person: (1) To have in the person's possession any canceled, fictitious, fraudulently altered, or fraudulently obtained driver's license or identification card with a Gold Star Family designation; (2) To lend a driver's license or identification card with a Gold Star Family designation to any other person or knowingly permit the use thereof by another; (3) To display or represent a driver's license or identification card with a Gold Star Family designation not issued to the person as being the person's card; (4) To permit any unlawful use of a driver's license or identification card with a Gold Star Family designation issued to the person; (5) To photograph, photostat, duplicate, or in any way reproduce a driver's license or identification card with a Gold Star Family designation, or facsimile thereof, in such a manner that it could be mistaken for a valid driver's license or identification card with a Gold Star Family designation, or to display or have in the person's possession any such photograph, photostat, duplicate, reproduction, or facsimile; or (6) To alter a driver's license or identification card with a Gold Star Family designation in any manner. c. A person who violates any provision of subsection b. of this section shall be liable to a civil penalty of $1,000. The civil penalty shall be collected pursuant to the "Penalty Enforcement Law of 1999," P.L.1999, c.274 (C.2A:58-10 et seq.), in a summary proceeding before the municipal court having jurisdiction. L.2017, c.175, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:23-12 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 23 / Section 23-12
Department of Veterans Affairs advisory councils.
Status: in_force

38A:23-12. There are established in the Department of Veterans Affairs four advisory councils known as: a. The New Jersey Veterans' Memorial Home Advisory Council-Menlo Park; b. The New Jersey Veterans' Memorial Home Advisory Council-Vineland; c. The New Jersey Veterans' Memorial Home Advisory Council-Paramus; and d. The New Jersey Veterans' Memorial Cemetery Advisory Council-Arneytown. Each advisory council shall consist of seven members, at least five of whom are veterans, to be appointed by the commissioner. The term of each council member, except for the initial members, shall be three years commencing on July 1 and ending on June 30 of the third year thereafter, and any vacancy shall be filled for the unexpired term only. The members of the advisory council shall receive no compensation for their services but shall be reimbursed for actual expenditures incurred in the performance of their duty. The members are subject to removal by the commissioner at any time for good and sufficient cause. L.2025, c.139, s.34.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-18 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-18
Selection of chairman, secretary
Status: in_force

4. The council shall select from among its members a chairman and also shall select a secretary, who need not be a member of the council. L.1992,c.86,s.4.
N.J. Stat. § 38:25A-7 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 25A / Section 25A-7
Presumptive evidence; offense
Status: in_force

The sale or offering for sale of any such poppies or poppy except as herein provided shall be construed as presumptive evidence of intent to evade the provisions and restrictions of this act and upon conviction any person so charged shall be deemed and adjudged a disorderly person. L.1938, c. 207, p. 491, s. 7, eff. May 18, 1938.
N.J. Stat. § 38:20-1 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 20 / Section 20-1
"War orphans" ; "war" ; "in time of emergency" defined
Status: in_force

For the purpose of this chapter, the term "war orphans" shall mean and include any child between the ages of 16 and 21 years, domiciled in this State for at least 12 months prior to the time of application for benefits under this chapter, who being otherwise qualified is the child of any resident of this State who was killed in action or died from other causes while a member of the Armed Forces of the United States in time of war or emergency, or who is officially listed as "Missing In Action" by the Department of Defense or who died or shall hereafter die of disease or disability resulting from such war or emergency service. As used in this act, "war" shall mean World War I, being any time between April 6, 1917, to July 2, 1921, and World War II, being any time between September 16, 1940, and September 2, 1945. As used in this act, the term "in time of emergency" shall mean and include any time after June 23, 1950, and prior to the termination, suspension or revocation of the proclamation of the existence of a national emergency issued by the President of the United States on December 16, 1950, or termination of the existence of such national emergency by appropriate action of the President or Congress of the United States; the term "in time of emergency" shall also mean and include any time of armed hostility or conflict with a foreign adversary after December 31, 1960, and prior to the termination of the existence of such armed hostility or conflict with a foreign adversary by appropriate action of the President or Congress of the United States. Amended by L.1944, c. 197, p. 713, s. 1; L.1951, c. 65, p. 426, s. 1; L.1955, c. 174, p. 730, s. 1, eff. July 28, 1955; L.1975, c. 225, s. 1, eff. Oct. 15, 1975.
N.J. Stat. § 38:25-10 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 25 / Section 25-10
Proceedings printed and bound; distribution
Status: in_force

The adjutant general, shall in his discretion and under his direction, order such part of the proceedings as he shall approve, to be printed and bound. A printed and bound copy thereof shall be sent to each post and to each public library of this state together with seventy-five copies for exchange under the direction of the adjutant general. There shall also be sent one hundred advance, unbound copies of the annual report of the department commander and sundry officers for the use of the annual encampment.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:7-2 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 7 / Section 7-2
Use of designations
Status: in_force

During the absence of any organization or unit of the National Guard in Federal service, its organization or unit designation shall not be given to or used by any other organization or unit. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:8-1 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 8 / Section 8-1
Organization and composition
Status: in_force

The Naval Militia may be organized, maintained and disbanded at the discretion of the Governor under applicable Federal laws and regulations. The Naval Militia shall consist of such organizations and units of the Naval Reserve of the United States as may be prescribed by the Governor and shall be composed of officers and enlisted men who meet the qualifications for membership in such Naval Reserve and are so enrolled therein. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:14-8 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 14 / Section 14-8
Assault on troops
Status: in_force

Any person who assaults, fires at, throws missile at, against, or upon any uniformed member or members of the militia or other person lawfully aiding such member or members, when assembling or assembled for the purpose of performing any military duty, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:19-2 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 19 / Section 19-2
Effect of repeal
Status: in_force

The repeal of any statute or part of a statute hereby effected shall not of itself revive any right or remedy abolished or superseded by said statute or part of a statute, so repealed. L.1963, c. 109, eff. July 1, 1963.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-50 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-50
Online historic tour identifying locations of war battles, places of historic military significance.
Status: in_force

1. a. The Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs, in consultation with the Division of Travel and Tourism in the Department of State and the New Jersey Historical Commission, shall develop and maintain a website providing information detailing war battles fought and places of historic significance to the military or war efforts in New Jersey. The website shall: (1) specify the date and location, and describe the importance, of each battle that took place on lands within the State or in State waters; and (2) identify, and describe the importance of, locations within the State or in State waters that are, or have been, significant to the military or war efforts, such as those locations used for military operations or training or which house, berth, or preserve historic military equipment, vehicles, or vessels, including battleships, fighter planes, and tanks. The information on the website shall be available as a list and in an online tour format, and shall include, but need not be limited to, information pertaining to battles fought and places that are of historic significance to military actions or war efforts undertaken during the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. b. The department shall be entitled to call to its assistance and avail itself of the services of the employees of any State, county, or municipal department, authority, board, bureau, commission, agency, or entity, or of Rutgers, The State University, or any other public institution of higher education in the State, as it may require and as may be available to it for the purpose of carrying out its duties under this act. L.2017, c.78, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:7-4 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 7 / Section 7-4
Federal recognition of officers and enlisted members
Status: in_force

Subject to such exceptions as may be set forth in Federal laws and regulations, or as otherwise prescribed by this Title, all officers and enlisted members of the National Guard shall meet the qualifications for Federal recognition as officers or enlisted members of the National Guard and be so recognized. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:7-3 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 7 / Section 7-3
Administration, discipline and training
Status: in_force

The administration, discipline and training of the National Guard shall conform to the applicable Federal and State laws and regulations. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-41 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-41
Organization, officers.
Status: in_force

4. The commission shall organize as soon as may be practicable after the appointment of a majority of its members and shall select from among its members a chairperson and a vice chairperson, who shall be responsible for the coordination of all activities of the commission. The members shall select a secretary, who need not be a member of the commission. L.2007, c.319, s.4.
N.J. Stat. § 38:25A-17 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 25A / Section 25A-17
American Veterans of World War II, white clover as souvenir
Status: in_force

The labeled official flower, the white clover, or its replica in any material form, shall be the recognized souvenir of the Amvets, American Veterans of World War II. L.1954, c. 41, p. 110, s. 1, eff. June 8, 1954.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-10 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-10
Fees for services.
Status: in_force

38A:3-10. The Commissioner of the Department of Veterans Affairs may demand and receive, for the services herein enumerated, except for those in proof of pension and exemption from jury duty, or in lieu of lost discharges, the following fees: (a) For every search made in his office for the military record of any member or former member of the armed forces, including any member of the American Merchant Marine during World War II who is declared by the United States Department of Defense to be eligible for federal veterans' benefits, the sum of $1.00. (b) For the furnishing of every certified copy of such record, the sum of $2.00. The Commissioner shall keep a true record and account of fees received under the provisions of this section and shall pay the same into the State Treasury in the manner prescribed by law. L.1963, c.109; amended 1984,c.181,s.13; 1991,c.389,s.21; 2025, c.139, s.81.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:21-7 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 21 / Section 21-7
Transfers made, State Agency Transfer Act, Department of Veterans Affairs.
Status: in_force

38A:21-7. The transfers made by this act, N.J.S.38A:21-1 et al., shall be made in accordance with the "State Agency Transfer Act," P.L.1971, c. 375 (C.52:14D-1 et seq.). The programs developed within the Department of Military and Veterans’ Affairs prior to the effective date of this act shall be continued and transferred to the Department of Veterans Affairs in accordance with, or as provided by, this act. The councils and commissions, together with all their functions, powers, and duties, are continued and transferred from the Department of Military and Veterans’ Affairs to the Department of Veterans Affairs in accordance with, and as provided by, this act. This act shall not affect the terms of office of the members of the councils and commissions serving on the effective date. L.2025, c.139, s.69.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:21-24 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 21 / Section 21-24
Department of Veterans Affairs, services, outreach, rehabilitation, educational programs.
Status: in_force

38A:21-24. The department, through its divisions, shall: a. administer the operations of the Vietnam Veterans' Outreach Program; b. administer all federal and State training and rehabilitation programs not administered by other State departments; c. provide current information to the general public on federal and State veterans' programs and benefits; and d. provide a continuous liaison between the department, the Department of Education, and the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education to insure that veterans or their dependents seeking to apply for educational programs for veterans or their dependents are referred to the appropriate State office and provided with the information, forms, and assistance necessary to apply for those programs. L.2025, c.139, s.22.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:11-12 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 11 / Section 11-12
Loan of equipage and stores to veterans organizations.
Status: in_force

When any lawfully organized association of veterans of any war from this State shall apply to the Adjutant General for the temporary loan of camp and garrison equipage, ordinance or other military stores, for any purpose not in conflict with or in violation of the laws of this State or the United States, the Adjutant General shall examine into such application, and upon finding it a just and proper request may order and authorize the issuance of such stores. The applicants shall be required to furnish good and sufficient bonds for the value of the stores issued. Such bonds shall first be approved by the Adjutant General and remain on file in the office of the Adjutant General. L.1963, c. 109. Amended by L.1984, c. 181, s. 20, eff. Nov. 14, 1984.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:11-3 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 11 / Section 11-3
Financial and personal responsibility
Status: in_force

Every officer and enlisted member to whom public property has been or may hereafter be issued shall be financially and personally responsible to the State or to the United States, as their interest may appear, for its good condition, safe-keeping and return when called upon by the competent authority. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:10-2 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 10 / Section 10-2
Territorial applicability
Status: in_force

(a) This chapter shall be applicable in all places within the State. It shall also apply to all persons subject to this chapter while serving without the State and while going to and returning from such service without the State in a like manner and to the same extent as while such persons are serving within the State. (b) Courts-Martial and Courts of Inquiry may be convened and held in units of the organized militia while serving without the State with the same jurisdiction and powers as if held within the State, and offenses committed without the State may be tried and punished either without the State or within the State. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:4-3 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 4 / Section 4-3
Pay, allowances; $100 daily minimum for State active duty
Status: in_force

38A:4-3. a. An officer or enlisted member ordered to State active duty shall receive the pay and allowances prescribed by Federal laws and regulations for an officer or enlisted member of corresponding grade and length of service when on Federal active duty, provided that an officer or enlisted member of the Army National Guard or Air National Guard shall be paid a minimum of $100 of base pay for each day the officer or member is on State active duty. b. Notwithstanding subsection a. of this section, the State shall not provide pay and allowances for State active duty service when pay and allowances for such service is provided out of Federal funds, unless Federal funds are insufficient to provide an officer or enlisted member with the minimum of $100 for each day of State active duty service. This provision shall not limit or restrict the applicability of 38A:4-4 to individuals detailed to the Department of Defense in a permanent duty status. L.1963, c.109; amended 2003, c.141.
N.J. Stat. § 38:23A-5 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 23A / Section 23A-5
Renewal or reinstatement of professional or occupational licenses
Status: in_force

Any veteran who at the time of entering such service or within one year prior thereto was the holder of a license, registration certificate or permit, to practice any profession or to engage in any occupation, issued by any State board, body or officer, pursuant to law, which expired, lapsed or was forfeited or shall expire, lapse or be forfeited, by limitation of time for failure to renew the same, or to pay an annual license or renewal fee, shall be entitled, without examination or re-examination, upon making application therefor within six months after his said discharge or release from such service, to a renewal or reinstatement of such license, registration certificate or permit until the next renewal or termination period of such license, registration certificate or permit, upon payment of the lawful fee, if any, provided for a renewal or reinstatement thereof, and upon the giving or renewal of any bond provided to be given or renewed upon a renewal or reinstatement of such license, registration certificate or permit. L.1946, c. 51, p. 108, s. 2.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:4-8 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 4 / Section 4-8
Compensation exempt from legal process
Status: in_force

The pay and allowances due or to become due to any member of the organized militia for military duty therein, and any compensation that may be awarded for injuries, disabilities or death sustained therein, shall be exempt from attachment, execution or other legal process. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38:20-3 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 20 / Section 20-3
Application for benefits; limited allotments.
Status: in_force

38:20-3. Application for such benefits shall be made to the Department of Veterans Affairs, which shall make rules and regulations to effectuate the provisions thereof. It shall ascertain and approve the educational aptitude of the applicant for the course of study desired to be pursued in accordance with tests or standards prescribed or approved by the State Department of Education and the financial need of the applicant and may satisfy itself of the attendance of such applicants and the accuracy of the charges made by the institution which the applicant attends. No more than four annual allotments of $500.00 each shall be allowed any such applicant. Amended 1945,c.105; 1952,c.49,s.2; 1955,c.174,s.3; 1991,c.39,s.1; 2025, c.139, s.89.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:4-12 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 4 / Section 4-12
Credit for war service
Status: in_force

For all purposes, officers and enlisted members who entered the active service of the United States in time of war by appointment or enlistment, or under call, order or draft by the President, or who shall hereafter enter such service under like conditions, shall be entitled to credit for the time served in the active service of the United States, as if such service had been rendered to or for the State. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-2.5 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-2.5
Donations, grants for World War II Memorial.
Status: in_force

2. The Adjutant General of the Department of Military and Veterans'Affairs and the Deputy Commissioner of Veterans' Affairs, on behalf of the World War II Memorial Commission established pursuant to Executive Order No. 107 of 2004 by Governor McGreevey, may solicit and accept donations or grants of money or property from any source for the purposes of the World War II Memorial and may distribute appropriations made by law for that purpose. Any donations or grants received shall be credited to the World War II Veterans'Memorial Fundcreated in section 1 of this act. L.2005,c.59,s.2.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-38 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-38
Commission on Women Veterans.
Status: in_force

1. There is created in the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs, the Commission on Women Veterans, hereinafter referred to as "the commission". The commission shall work in collaboration with other State agencies and appropriate groups to study and review the needs, priorities, programs, and policies relating to women veterans, including, but not limited to, housing, health care, job training, and outreach. The commission shall ensure that all service providers and citizens are aware of the needs and services available to women veterans and make recommendations for community education and training programs. The commission shall provide outreach in conjunction with the Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs and other organizations to educate and recruit prospective veterans. L.2007, c.319, s.1.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:17-1 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 17 / Section 17-1
Agreements with Governors of bordering States for protection of communication facilities
Status: in_force

The Governor is authorized from time to time to enter into agreements with the Governors of any States bordering on New Jersey for the protection in the event of emergency of any or all interstate bridges, tunnels, ferries and other communications facilities between New Jersey and such other States and by such agreements to fix and define the powers, duties, liabilities and immunities of the armed forces of New Jersey and of such other States with respect to the protection of such bridges, tunnels, ferries and other communications facilities. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38:23-4.1 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 23 / Section 23-4.1
"Emergency" defined
Status: in_force

As used in the act to which this act is a supplement, the term "emergency" shall include, but shall not be limited to, any period of time after June twenty-third, one thousand nine hundred and fifty, and prior to the termination, suspension or revocation of the proclamation of the existence of a national emergency issued by the President of the United States on December sixteenth, one thousand nine hundred and fifty, or termination of the existence of such national emergency by appropriate action of the President or Congress of the United States. L.1951, c. 18, p. 50, s. 1, eff. April 2, 1968.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:23-3 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 23 / Section 23-3
Persons without sufficient financial ability for care, support, requirements, admission to veterans' facility.
Status: in_force

38A:23-3. The following persons, if they are without sufficient financial ability to provide for their support and necessary care in the community, may be admitted to a veterans' facility: a. A disabled veteran who has been a resident of New Jersey for at least two years prior to the date of application; b. The spouse of any person who has been admitted to a veterans' facility, provided that the spouse is not less than 50 years of age and has been married to such person for a period of not less than 10 years; c. The surviving spouse of a person who died an honorable death while in the active military service of the United States, or who was a disabled veteran at the time of death, provided that the surviving spouse was the person's spouse at the time of the person's service or was married to the person not less than 10 years prior to the date of application and has not married since the person's death and provided that the surviving spouse has been a resident of New Jersey for at least two years prior to the date of application; and d. The parent of a person who was a resident of New Jersey at the time of entry into, and who died an honorable death in time of war or emergency while in, the active military service of the United States, provided that the parent has been a resident of New Jersey for at least two years prior to the date of application. This section shall not be construed to prevent a veteran who actually served in a New Jersey military organization, and who is qualified for admission except for the required period of State residence, from being admitted to a veterans' facility, but preference shall be given to persons who have been residents of the State for a period of at least two years prior to application. L.2025, c.139, s.25.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:11-8 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 11 / Section 11-8
Action before Superior Court
Status: in_force

38A:11-8. Any officer of the militia charged with the care and responsibility of public property may bring an action in the Superior Court against any person who detains any arm, article of clothing or equipment, or any military supplies, being the property of the United States or of this State. The court may proceed in the action in a summary manner or otherwise, with a jury if a jury be demanded by the defendant. The court may require the defendant to deliver up such property to the plaintiff. L.1963, c.109; amended 1991,c.91,s.369.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:21-29 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 21 / Section 21-29
Assistance to qualified veterans, in-patient, out-patient treatment programs, travel to certain medical counseling appointments.
Status: in_force

38A:21-29. The Department of Veterans Affairs shall establish a program to provide assistance to qualified veterans in in-patient and out-patient treatment programs with travel to attend medical counseling appointments for service-connected conditions approved and authorized by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs within this State. The department shall: a. develop, in cooperation with the New Jersey Transit Corporation and the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, a program to provide reimbursement, subject to available State or federal funding, to qualified veterans who spend their own funds to travel on public transportation to and from medical counseling appointments for service-connected conditions within the State using any motor bus or rail passenger service conducted by the corporation when the veteran is not otherwise eligible for payment for travel or reimbursement by means of any existing State or federal program; b. develop, in cooperation with the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, a program to provide reimbursement to qualified veterans who spend their own funds to travel using private transportation to and from medical counseling appointments for service-connected conditions within the State by reimbursing on a per mile basis their operation of a privately owned conveyance when that veteran is not otherwise eligible for payment for travel or reimbursement by means of any existing State or federal program, provided that the qualified veteran shall not use a for-hire private entity that charges for transportation unless such transportation is necessary for the qualified veteran due to a service-connected injury or disability for which the veteran has a certified rating provided by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs which prevents or hinders his or her ability to operate a privately owned conveyance; c. develop, in coordination with the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, a system for monitoring veterans who have applied for reimbursement; d. notify the general public and eligible veterans that the program established by this section is available to qualified veterans; and e. adopt such rules and regulations as may be necessary to effectuate the purposes of this section. L.2025, c.139, s.56.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-2b4 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-2b4
Unclaimed cremains, receipt by certain veterans’ organization after one year.
Status: in_force

2. a. (1) A funeral director, licensed pursuant to P.L.1952, c.340 (C.45:7-32 et seq.), shall grant a qualified veterans' organization, as defined in subsection b. of section 2 of P.L.1983, c.385 (C.26:7-18.2), the right to receive the cremains of a veteran, or the cremains of an eligible spouse or eligible dependent of a veteran, which have not been claimed by a relative or friend of the deceased within one year after cremation upon certification, to the satisfaction of the Commissioner of Health, that a diligent effort, as defined in subsection a. of section 2 of P.L.1983, c.385 (C.26:7-18.2), has been made to identify, locate, and notify a relative or friend of the deceased within that one-year period, as provided under section 2 of P.L.1983, c.385 (C.26:7-18.2). A qualified veterans' organization which takes possession of cremains pursuant to this section shall dispose of the cremains by scattering them at sea or by interring them on land in a dignified manner at the State-operated Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans' Memorial Cemetery, a State-operated veterans' memorial cemetery, a national veterans' memorial cemetery, or a local veterans memorial cemetery, if the individual is eligible for interment at those facilities. (2) Each funeral director shall promptly respond to a request from the Commissioner of the Department of Veterans Affairs for information as to whether the cremains of a veteran, or the cremains of an eligible spouse or eligible dependent of a veteran, have been claimed. b. A funeral home or mortuary, or an agent of the funeral home or mortuary, or a funeral director, or qualified veterans' organization, shall not be liable for damages in any civil action arising out of the disposal of cremains pursuant to this section unless the damages are the result of gross negligence or willful misconduct. L.2009, c.14, s.2; amended 2021, c.37, s.4; 2025, c.340, s.3.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:1-2 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 1 / Section 1-2
Composition of militia
Status: in_force

38A:1-2. Composition of militia The militia, except as hereinafter provided, shall consist of all able-bodied citizens of this State and all other able-bodied persons residing in this State who have made a legal declaration of intent to become citizens of the United States, who are at least 17 years of age and, except as hereinafter provided, not more than 45 years of age, and such other persons as may upon their own application be enlisted or commissioned therein in accordance with federal or State law and regulations. L.1963, c.109; amended 1991,c.195.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:8-2 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 8 / Section 8-2
Administration, discipline and training
Status: in_force

The administration, discipline and training of the Naval Militia shall conform to applicable Federal or State laws and regulations. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:21-12 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 21 / Section 21-12
Determining person seeking to be considered a veteran, disabled veteran.
Status: in_force

38A:21-12. The Commissioner of the Department of Veterans Affairs shall determine whether any person seeking to be considered a "veteran" or a "disabled veteran" under N.J.S.11A:5-1, N.J.S.18A:66-2, section 6 of P.L.1954, c.84 (C.43:15A-6) or section 1 of P.L.1983, c.391 (C.43:16A-11.7), meets the criteria set forth therein and shall be considered a veteran or disabled veteran, as appropriate, for the purposes of these laws. The commissioner shall adjudicate an appeal from any person disputing the decision of the commissioner as to whether a person is to be considered a veteran or disabled veteran, as appropriate, for the purposes of these laws. The commissioner shall promptly notify the public entity responsible for administering each such law of the determination of the commissioner, and the determination shall be binding on such public entities. L.2025, c.139, s.10.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:10-5 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 10 / Section 10-5
Persons authorized to execute process
Status: in_force

All processes, writs, warrants and sentences of the military courts shall be directed to and executed by any sheriff, member of the State Police or any other officer or member of the police department of any municipality, or any other law enforcement officer of any county or municipality. They shall be similar in form to like processes, writs, or warrants issued by civil courts, or in such forms as may be prescribed by the Governor in regulations. All officers to whom such process, writ or warrant may be directed shall execute the same and make return thereof to the officer issuing them. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38:23B-12 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 23B / Section 23B-12
Terms of business loan
Status: in_force

Each business loan made under this act shall: a. Be evidenced by a note or other obligation approved by the commissioner. b. Bear interest at a rate not exceeding four per centum (4%) per annum upon the unpaid balance. c. Be payable as follows: (1) In monthly or quarterly installments of interest, the first of which shall be payable not less than six months after the making of the loan and the last of which shall be payable not exceeding six years from the date of the obligation; and (2) In monthly or quarterly installments of principal, the first of which shall be payable not less than twelve months after the making of the loan and the last of which shall be payable not exceeding six years from the date of the obligation; except, however, that any veteran at his option, may, on such form as the commissioner shall prescribe, waive the grace period, or any part thereof, herein provided him for the payment of the first installment of interest, or the grace period, or any part thereof, herein provided him for the payment of the first installment of principal, or both. d. Be secured only by the personal liability of the maker, and not by any endorsers, comakers, collateral or other security; except that in accordance with such rules and regulations as prescribed by the commissioner, where the maker is married endorsement of the spouse may be required, and where the loan, or any part thereof, is made to finance the purchase or improvement of any property a lien on such property may be required. Where the loan, or any part thereof, is made to finance the purchase or improvement of any property to be used by the veteran and any other person or persons in a business or profession to be conducted by them as partners, and a lien on such property is required pursuant to the rules and regulations of the commissioner, the instrument creating such lien may, pursuant to regulations prescribed by the commissioner, be required to be made and executed by such partners, individually and as copartners doing business under their trade name. Notwithstanding the provisions of any other law to the contrary every such lien instrument, properly recorded, shall be valid and effective against all creditors of such partnership. L.1944, c. 126, p. 347, s. 12. Amended by L.1945, c. 185, p. 626, s. 5; L.1946, c. 121, p. 564, s. 9; L.1947, c. 190, p. 838, s. 1, eff. May 23, 1947.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-2b5 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-2b5
Drug testing required for certain employees of veterans memorial homes.
Status: in_force

2. a. As a condition of employment as a direct care staff member at a New Jersey veterans memorial home, an applicant for employment shall consent to and undergo drug testing for controlled dangerous sub-stances as provided in subsection f. of this section. The drug testing shall be at the expense of the applicant. If a person applying for employment at a New Jersey veterans memorial home on or after the effective date of this act tests positive for the unlawful use of any controlled dangerous substance, or refuses to submit to drug testing, the person shall be removed from consideration for employment. b. A person who is employed at a New Jersey veterans memorial home as a direct care staff member shall be subject to random drug testing for controlled dangerous substances performed at such intervals as the Adjutant General deems appropriate. The Adjutant General shall annually perform random drug tests on 100 direct care staff members. c. A person who is employed at a New Jersey veterans memorial home as a direct care staff member may be required to undergo drug testing for controlled dangerous substances if the employee’s immediate supervisor has reasonable suspicion to believe that the employee is illegally using a controlled dangerous substance, based on the employee’s visible impairment or professional misconduct which relates adversely to patient care or safety. The supervisor shall report this information to his immediate supervisor in a form and manner specified by the Adjutant General, and if the supervisor concurs that there is reasonable suspicion to believe that an employee is illegally using a controlled dangerous substance, that supervisor shall notify the chief executive officer of the New Jersey veterans memorial home, or other executive level officer of the veterans memorial home designated by the Adjutant General, and request approval in writing for ordering the employee to undergo drug testing. Drug testing of an employee shall not be ordered without the written approval of the chief executive officer or other executive level officer designated by the Adjutant General. d. An employee who tests positive for the unlawful use of any controlled dangerous substance may be referred to employee advisory services, or terminated from employment, as applicable, based on the employee’s job title. An employee who refuses to submit to drug testing shall be terminated from employment. In all cases, however, the employee shall retain any available right of review by the Civil Service Commission. e. The drug testing required pursuant to subsections b. and c. of this section shall be at the expense of the Department of Military and Veterans’ Affairs. f. Drug testing shall be performed by an outside drug testing facil-ity in a manner prescribed by the Adjutant General. g. The Adjutant General shall notify all affected employees of New Jersey veterans memorial homes of the provisions of this section. h. As used in this section, “direct care staff member” means a: Human Services Technician; Human Services Assistant; physician; psychiatrist; dentist; psychologist; nurse; nurse assistant; physical, occupational, or speech therapist; social worker; and any other staff member employed by a veterans memorial home who provides direct care to a resident at the facility, as determined by the Adjutant General. i. Pursuant to the “Administrative Procedure Act,” P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.), the Adjutant General shall adopt rules and regulations necessary to effectuate the purposes of this act, including, but not limited to, those rules and regulations necessary to ensure the confidentiality of the person undergoing drug testing, and that drug test results are not reported to law enforcement authorities.
L.2009, c.220, s.2.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:9-3 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 9 / Section 9-3
Use of armories and equipment
Status: in_force

The Governor may make available to the State Guard the facilities of the State armories and their equipment and such other State premises and property as may be available, and he may requisition from the Federal Government for the use of the State Guard, arms, ammunition, clothing, equipment and other items in accordance with Federal laws and regulations. The governing body of every county, municipality, board, commission or district, including school districts, may make available to the State Guard any premises, facilities, equipment or other property belonging to, or in the possession or control of, any such body, municipality, board, body, commission or district. L.1963, c. 109.
N.J. Stat. § 38:23A-7 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 23A / Section 23A-7
Apprentice and on-the-job training for veterans; "present emergency" defined
Status: in_force

Each State department and each county and municipality in the State hereby is authorized and empowered to establish and maintain apprentice and on-the-job training programs for the employment of veterans of World War II as contemplated by public laws Nos. 16 and 346 of the Seventy-eighth Congress of the United States, and for persons who have served in the armed forces of the United States in the present emergency who may be entitled to on-the-job training benefits under any Federal law, and the head of each State Department and the governing body of each county and municipality is authorized to determine the positions to be included within such program and their rating and to fix the compensation to be paid to such veterans while serving therein under the supervision, and subject to the approval, of the Civil Service Commission in the case of State departments and the counties and municipalities in which subtitle three, of Title 11, Civil Service, of the Revised Statutes is in effect. The term "present emergency" as used in this act shall mean and include any time after June twenty-third, one thousand nine hundred and fifty, and prior to the termination, suspension or revocation of the proclamation of the existence of a national emergency issued by the President of the United States on December sixteenth, one thousand nine hundred and fifty, or termination of the existence of such national emergency by appropriate action of the President or Congress of the United States. L.1946, c. 162, p. 731, s. 1. Amended by L.1952, c. 232, p. 784, s. 2, eff. May 19, 1952.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:22-2 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 22 / Section 22-2
Approval, disapproval of policies, work programs related to veterans.
Status: in_force

38A:22-2. The department shall review and approve or disapprove all policies and work programs of State departments, agencies, and instrumentalities relating to veterans' welfare, services, or activities. No such activity or work program shall be undertaken or continued after disapproval by the department without specific authorization from the Governor. L.2025, c.139, s.44.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:23-13 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 23 / Section 23-13
Duties of advisory councils, Department of Veterans Affairs.
Status: in_force

38A:23-13. Subject to the provisions of this act, N.J.S.38A:21-1 et al., and under general policies established by the commissioner, the advisory councils of the veterans' facilities shall: a. recommend standards and procedures for application and termination of eligibility for admission to veterans' facilities; b. recommend standards and methods for designating the veterans' facility in which an eligible person shall receive care and treatment consistent with available services and individual needs and circumstances; c. recommend standards of care, treatment, and discipline governing the relationships between the veterans' facilities and persons admitted thereto; and d. recommend standards and procedures for the determination and payment of amounts which members may be required to contribute toward the cost of care and treatment in accordance with their financial ability. L.2025, c.139, s.35.
N.J. Stat. § 38:16-5 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 16 / Section 16-5
Position or office of certain war veterans not to be abolished to terminate service
Status: in_force

No such commission shall abolish any position or office held by a person mentioned in paragraph one of this act, or change the title of such position, office or employment, or reduce the emoluments thereof for the purpose of terminating the service of such person. L.1944, c. 249, p. 813, s. 2, eff. April 24, 1944.
N.J. Stat. § 38:23C-25 — NJ Code / Title 38 / Chapter 23C / Section 23C-25
Conflict of laws
Status: in_force

Insofar as the provisions of this act are inconsistent with the provisions of any other act, the provisions of this act shall be controlling. L.1979, c. 317, s. 25, eff. Jan. 18, 1980.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:3-3 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 3 / Section 3-3
Adjutant General.
Status: in_force

38A:3-3. The head of the Department of Military Affairs shall be the Adjutant General, who shall be appointed with the grade of major general of the line, New Jersey Army National Guard, or major general, New Jersey Air National Guard, by the Governor, with the advice and consent of the Senate, from: (a) Federally recognized general officers in the National Guard who have served therein for the preceding 10 years; or (b) Federally recognized commissioned officers in the National Guard, who have served therein for the preceding 10 years and are now serving in a military grade not below that of a colonel, such officers having the qualifications to become federally recognized as brigadier general of the line, New Jersey Army National Guard, or brigadier general, New Jersey Air National Guard. L.1963, c.109; amended 1984,c.181,s.6; 1987,c.444,s.7; 1988,c.138,s.9; 2025, c.139, s.77.
N.J. Stat. § 38A:13-1 — NJ Code / Title 38A / Chapter 13 / Section 13-1
Medical care and compensation
Status: in_force

A member of the organized militia who incurs an injury, disease or disability in the line of duty, and whose claim is approved by the Adjutant General, or his duly appointed representative shall be entitled to the same benefits as are provided in article 2 of chapter 15 of Title 34. If the member incurs death under the same conditions, the dependent members of the family of the deceased, if any, shall be entitled to compensation as provided in article 2 of chapter 15 of Title 34. To the extent that a member or dependent may be entitled to receive federal benefits for particular elements of a claim, the benefits provided pursuant to this section shall be reduced by the amount of the federal benefits paid for each element of a claim. As used in this chapter "in line of duty" means that the injury, disease, disability or death has been sustained in the discharge of duty, in going to and from that duty, or in responding to, preparing for, or returning from an emergency while under orders from competent authority. L.1963, c.109; amended by L. 1984, c. 181, s. 27; 1987, c. 217, s. 1.