reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.013. Finances

Sec. 434.013.  FINANCES.  (a)  The financial transactions of the commission are subject to audit by the state auditor in accordance with Chapter 321, Government Code.
(b)  Repealed by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1083, Sec. 25(38), eff. June 17, 2011.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.  Amended by Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 584, Sec. 24, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
Amended by:
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1083 (S.B. 1179), Sec. 25(38), eff. June 17, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.014. Employment Practices

Sec. 434.014.  EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES.  (a)  The executive director or the executive director's designee shall develop a career ladder program.  The program must require that openings in all positions except entry level positions be posted within the commission concurrently with any public posting.
(b)  The executive director or the executive director's designee shall develop a system of annual performance evaluation based on measurable job tasks.  Merit pay for commission employees must be based on this system.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1385 (S.B. 1655), Sec. 1, eff. June 19, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.015. Information of Public Interest

Sec. 434.015.  INFORMATION OF PUBLIC INTEREST.  The commission shall prepare information of public interest describing the functions of the commission and the procedures for filing and for resolution by the commission of public complaints.  The commission shall make the information available to the general public and appropriate state agencies.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.0151. Public Participation

Sec. 434.0151.  PUBLIC PARTICIPATION.  The commission shall develop and implement policies that provide the public with a reasonable opportunity to appear before the commission and to speak on any issue under the jurisdiction of the commission.
Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1269 (H.B. 3426), Sec. 11, eff. September 1, 2007.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.016. Gifts and Grants

Sec. 434.016.  GIFTS AND GRANTS.  The commission may accept gifts of money and property and may accept grants.
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 395 (S.B. 1480), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2005.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.0161. Use of Funds to Support Outreach and Training

Sec. 434.0161.  USE OF FUNDS TO SUPPORT OUTREACH AND TRAINING.  The commission may use appropriated funds to purchase, for use at outreach and training functions:
(1)  promotional items that include the agency's name and contact information to be distributed to veterans; and
(2)  food and beverages.
Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1385 (S.B. 1655), Sec. 2, eff. June 19, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.0171. State Employee Contributions to Fund for Veterans' Assistance

Sec. 434.0171.  STATE EMPLOYEE CONTRIBUTIONS TO FUND FOR VETERANS' ASSISTANCE.  For purposes of Subchapter I, Chapter 659:
(1)  the Texas Veterans Commission, for the sole purpose of managing the fund for veterans' assistance, is considered an eligible charitable organization entitled to participate in the state employee charitable campaign; and
(2)  a state employee is entitled to authorize a deduction for contributions to the Texas Veterans Commission for the purposes of managing the fund for veterans' assistance as a charitable contribution under Section 659.132, and the Texas Veterans Commission may use the contributions for the purposes listed in Section 434.017(c).
Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 840 (S.B. 1940), Sec. 2, eff. June 19, 2009.
Amended by:
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 675 (S.B. 2104), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.018. Performance Incentive Award

Sec. 434.018.  PERFORMANCE INCENTIVE AWARD.  (a)  The commission may make a monetary performance incentive award to an individual or an entity for providing services to veterans as authorized by Section 3(a) of the federal Jobs for Veterans Act (38 U.S.C. Section 4112).
(b)   A performance incentive award made under this section to a state employee is not a promotion or a merit salary increase under Chapter 659.
Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 364 (S.B. 310), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2007.
Renumbered from Government Code, Section 434.017 by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 87 (S.B. 1969), Sec. 27.001(29), eff. September 1, 2009.
Amended by:
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 38 (S.B. 1859), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.019. Veterans Hospital

Sec. 434.019.  VETERANS HOSPITAL.  (a)  The Texas Veterans Commission and the Department of State Health Services, in collaboration with the office of the governor, shall work with the United States Department of Veterans Affairs and any other appropriate federal agency to propose that the federal government establish a veterans hospital in the Rio Grande Valley region of the state.
(b)  The state may contribute money, property, and other resources to the establishment, maintenance, and operation of a veterans hospital described by this section.
Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 439 (H.B. 2217), Sec. 1, eff. June 19, 2009.
Amended by:
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 633 (S.B. 1463), Sec. 2, eff. June 16, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.020. Notice to State Cemetery Committee of Servicemember's Death

Sec. 434.020.  NOTICE TO STATE CEMETERY COMMITTEE OF SERVICEMEMBER'S DEATH.  The Texas Veterans Commission shall notify the State Cemetery Committee as soon as practicable after the commission receives notice of the death of a member of the United States armed forces from the state who is killed while serving in a combat zone.
Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1394 (S.B. 2135), Sec. 2, eff. June 19, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.0205. Confidentiality of Information Provided to Commission

Sec. 434.0205.  CONFIDENTIALITY OF INFORMATION PROVIDED TO COMMISSION.  Any information provided by a person to the commission to receive services or participate in commission programs is confidential and not subject to disclosure under Chapter 552.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 367 (H.B. 1351), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.021. Confidential Information Received by the Commission

Sec. 434.021.  CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION RECEIVED BY THE COMMISSION.  Information received by the commission that is confidential under Chapter 552 remains confidential regardless of the format in which the commission maintains the information.
Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1385 (S.B. 1655), Sec. 2, eff. June 19, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.023. Health Care Advocacy Program for Veterans

Sec. 434.023.  HEALTH CARE ADVOCACY PROGRAM FOR VETERANS.  (a)  In this section, "veteran" means a person who has served in:
(1)  the army, navy, air force, coast guard, or marine corps of the United States; or
(2)  the Texas National Guard as defined by Section 431.001.
(b)  The commission by rule shall establish and implement a health care advocacy program to assist veterans in gaining access to health care facilities of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.
(c)  The program shall provide assistance to veterans by:
(1)  resolving any access issues raised by veterans in this state or referred to the commission by the veterans toll-free hotline operated under Section 161.077, Natural Resources Code;
(2)  coordinating with the Veterans Health Administration of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to support the health care advocacy program established under this section;
(3)  coordinating with health care providers in this state to expand providers' opportunities to treat veterans through the United States Department of Veterans Affairs;
(4)  reviewing and researching programs, projects, and initiatives designed to address the health care needs of veterans;
(5)  evaluating the effectiveness of the efforts of the commission to improve access to health care services for veterans;
(6)  making recommendations to the executive director of the commission to improve health care services and assistance for veterans;
(7)  incorporating veterans' health care issues into the commission's strategic plan required under Section 2056.002;
(8)  assisting veterans in securing benefits and services; and
(9)  recommending legislative initiatives and policies at the local, state, and national levels to address issues affecting health care for veterans.
(d)  The executive director of the commission shall appoint a program coordinator to administer the health care advocacy program.
(e)  The commission shall provide facilities as appropriate to support the program to the extent funding is available for that purpose.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 542 (H.B. 1762), Sec. 1, eff. June 16, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.024. Veterans Community Outreach Campaign

Sec. 434.024.  VETERANS COMMUNITY OUTREACH CAMPAIGN.  (a)  The Texas Veterans Commission shall conduct a community outreach campaign to provide information relating to and increase awareness of benefits and services available to veterans, including:
(1)  claims assistance services;
(2)  technology services, including the veterans website under Section 434.102;
(3)  health, financial, rehabilitation, and housing services;
(4)  employment and reemployment services;
(5)  legal services, including the veterans treatment court program under Chapter 124;
(6)  state and federal education benefits;
(7)  grants available to veterans;
(8)  entrepreneurial services under Section 434.022; and
(9)  mental health services.
(b)  The community outreach campaign must include outreach efforts at:
(1)  community centers;
(2)  places of worship; and
(3)  any other place in a community where veterans routinely gather, as determined by the commission.
(c)  The commission shall collaborate with, and may contract with, community-based, nonprofit, or private organizations to implement the community outreach campaign under this section.
(d)  The commission may solicit and accept gifts and grants to fund the community outreach campaign under this section.
Added by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 562 (S.B. 591), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2017.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.0241. Veterans Suicide Prevention Campaign

Sec. 434.0241.  VETERANS SUICIDE PREVENTION CAMPAIGN.  (a)  The Texas Veterans Commission shall conduct a suicide prevention campaign to provide veterans with information regarding suicide prevention.
(b)  In conducting the suicide prevention campaign, the commission shall establish a dedicated Internet website to provide veterans with information regarding suicide prevention.
(c)  The commission shall collaborate with, and may contract with, community-based, nonprofit, or private organizations to conduct the suicide prevention campaign under this section.
(d)  The commission may solicit and accept gifts and grants for purposes of conducting the suicide prevention campaign under this section.
Added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 482 (H.B. 671), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.025. Information Regarding Veteran's Employment Preference Policies

Sec. 434.025.  INFORMATION REGARDING VETERAN'S EMPLOYMENT PREFERENCE POLICIES.  The commission shall make available on its website a list of each private employer who has provided notice under Section 23.002(c), Labor Code, regarding a veteran's employment preference policy.
Added by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 387 (S.B. 588), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2017.
Redesignated from Government Code, Section 434.024 by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 467 (H.B. 4170), Sec. 21.001(22), eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.026. Online Repository for Active Duty Military

Sec. 434.026.  ONLINE REPOSITORY FOR ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY.  (a)  The Texas Veterans Commission shall develop and maintain on the state electronic Internet portal project described by Section 2054.252 an online repository of information of use to active duty members of the United States armed forces and their families relocating to this state.
(b)  The repository under Subsection (a) must include information on assistance, fee waivers, and programs the state provides to active duty members of the United States armed forces and their families related to occupational and professional licenses, education, and health care.
(c)  A link to the repository developed under Subsection (a) must be prominently displayed on the public home page of the state electronic Internet portal project described by Section 2054.252.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 316 (H.B. 2530), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.027. Energy Industry Program for Veteran Professional Development

Sec. 434.027.  ENERGY INDUSTRY PROGRAM FOR VETERAN PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT.  (a)  The Texas Veterans Commission shall develop and administer a program to provide assistance to veterans seeking a certification or training to prepare for employment in the energy industry.
(b)  The commission, in coordination with the General Land Office and Veterans' Land Board, shall conduct an outreach campaign to encourage veterans to participate in the program established under this section.
(c)  The commission shall adopt rules to implement the program established under this section.
Added by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 133 (H.B. 33), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.028. Citizenship Assistance for Veterans

Sec. 434.028.  CITIZENSHIP ASSISTANCE FOR VETERANS.  On request of a veteran, the Texas Veterans Commission shall evaluate the veteran's citizenship status in order to:
(1)  educate and direct the veteran in becoming a United States citizen; and
(2)  facilitate the veteran's naturalization process.
Added by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 157 (S.B. 886), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2021.
Redesignated from Government Code, Section 434.027 by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 768 (H.B. 4595), Sec. 24.001(18), eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter A. Texas Veterans Commission › Section 434.029. Certain Veterans Qualified for Benefits

Text of section as added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1067 (S.B. 493), Sec. 1
For text of section as added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 587 (H.B. 2951), Sec. 1, see other Sec. 434.029.
Sec. 434.029.  CERTAIN VETERANS QUALIFIED FOR BENEFITS.  (a)  In this section, "COVID-19" means the 2019 novel coronavirus disease.
(b)  For purposes of determining qualifications for any veterans benefits or services from the state, a former member of the United States armed forces who received a less than honorable discharge due to the individual's refusal to receive a vaccination against COVID-19 shall be considered to have received an honorable discharge.
(c)  For a discharge of a former member of the United States armed forces to be considered honorable under Subsection (b), the former member of the United States armed forces must prove to the Texas Veterans Commission that the individual's refusal to receive a vaccination against COVID-19 was the sole reason for the individual's less than honorable discharge.
Added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1067 (S.B. 493), Sec. 1, eff. June 18, 2023.
Text of section as added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 587 (H.B. 2951), Sec. 1
For text of section as added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1067 (S.B. 493), Sec. 1, see other Sec. 434.029.
For expiration of this section, see Subsection (j).
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter B. Veterans County Service Offices › Section 434.031. Definitions

Sec. 434.031.  DEFINITIONS.  In this subchapter:
(1)  "Office" means a Veterans County Service Office created under this subchapter.
(2)  "Officer" means a veterans county service officer or assistant veterans county service officer.
(3)  "Commission" means the Texas Veterans Commission.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.  Amended by Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 364, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter B. Veterans County Service Offices › Section 434.032. Creation

Sec. 434.032.  CREATION.  (a)  In a county with a population of 200,000 or more, the commissioners court shall maintain a veterans county service office.  The office must:
(1)  be separate and distinct from other county offices;
(2)  be staffed by at least one full-time employee; and
(3)  report directly to the commissioners court.
(b)  In a county with a population of less than 200,000, the commissioners court, by a majority vote of its full membership, may maintain and operate a veterans county service office if the commissioners court determines that the office is a public necessity to enable county residents who are veterans to promptly, properly, and rightfully obtain benefits to which they are entitled.
(c)  The commissioners court of a county that maintains an office:
(1)  may not consider donations made to the office under Article 42A.304(f), Code of Criminal Procedure, or Section 61.003 for purposes of determining the county's budget for the office; and
(2)  may use donations described by Subdivision (1) only to supplement, rather than supplant, amounts budgeted by the county for the office.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
Amended by:
Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1124 (S.B. 1676), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2017.
Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 565 (S.B. 456), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2021.
Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 934 (H.B. 3774), Sec. 11.03, eff. September 1, 2021.
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 306 (H.B. 541), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter B. Veterans County Service Offices › Section 434.033. Officers

Sec. 434.033.  OFFICERS.  (a)  A commissioners court that maintains and operates an office shall appoint a veterans county service officer and the number of assistant veterans county service officers that it considers necessary.
(b)  To be appointed as an officer a person must:
(1)  be qualified by education and training for the duties of the office; and
(2)  be experienced in the law, regulations, and rulings of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs controlling cases that come before the commission.
(b-1)  In appointing an officer, the commissioners court shall give preference to a veteran who qualifies for a veteran's employment preference under Chapter 657.  A commissioners court shall adopt and implement a county policy to give preference in appointing officers to veterans.
(c)  Repealed by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 593 (S.B. 601), Sec. 9, eff. September 1, 2019.
(d)  An officer serves at the pleasure of the commissioners court.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.  Amended by Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 364, Sec. 3, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1194 (H.B. 3872), Sec. 1, eff. June 19, 2009.
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 701 (H.B. 906), Sec. 1, eff. June 17, 2015.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 593 (S.B. 601), Sec. 6, eff. September 1, 2019.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 593 (S.B. 601), Sec. 9, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter B. Veterans County Service Offices › Section 434.034. Joint Employment

Sec. 434.034.  JOINT EMPLOYMENT.  The commissioners courts of any number of contiguous counties, by a majority vote of the full membership of each commissioners court, may agree to jointly establish an office and employ a veterans county service officer.  The agreement must stipulate the amount of compensation and travel and other expenses to be paid by each county.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter B. Veterans County Service Offices › Section 434.035. Duties

Sec. 434.035.  DUTIES.  An officer shall aid any county resident who served in the armed forces or nurses corps of the United States, and any orphan or dependent of the person, to prepare, submit, and present any claim against the United States or a state for benefits to which the person may be entitled under United States or state law.  The officer shall defeat all unjust claims that come to the officer's attention.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter B. Veterans County Service Offices › Section 434.036. Prohibitions

Sec. 434.036.  PROHIBITIONS.  (a)  An officer may not charge a fee or permit the payment of a fee by an applicant to a third person for services the officer renders under this subchapter.
(b)  An officer may not seek to influence the execution of a power of attorney to one national service organization over that of another.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter B. Veterans County Service Offices › Section 434.037. Access to Records

Sec. 434.037.  ACCESS TO RECORDS.  A state eleemosynary or penal institution shall give an officer access to its records to enable the officer to determine the status of a person confined in the institution relating to a benefit to which the person may be entitled.  Access to records of a penal institution is governed by rules of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 87 (S.B. 1969), Sec. 25.070, eff. September 1, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter B. Veterans County Service Offices › Section 434.039. Coordination With County Service Officers and Commissioners Courts

Sec. 434.039.  COORDINATION WITH COUNTY SERVICE OFFICERS AND COMMISSIONERS COURTS.  The commission shall develop and adopt procedures to coordinate with county service officers and county commissioners courts to:
(1)  identify the shared objectives of the commission, county service officers, and counties with a county service office in serving veterans;
(2)  develop a plan for encouraging service officers to become accredited by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs;
(3)  develop a procedure for consulting with counties to evaluate the state's overall approach to service delivery by county service officers and commission claims staff as part of the state's veterans assistance network;
(4)  define the commission's responsibilities in overseeing claims and appeals prepared by county service officers for instances when the commission has been designated as a veteran's agent under a power of attorney;
(5)  develop a process for collecting information regarding claims filed by county service officers for instances when the commission has been designated as a veteran's agent under a power of attorney, for providing technical assistance to county service officers, and for providing evaluative information, on request, to county judges or other local officials who supervise county service officers;
(6)  incorporate county service officers into United States Department of Veterans Affairs appeals hearings either to represent veterans or to appear as witnesses, as needed;
(7)  explore opportunities for funding county service officer travel to participate in United States Department of Veterans Affairs appeals hearings; and
(8)  develop procedures to regularly update county service officers on changes in United States Department of Veterans Affairs policies and procedures, and other information.
Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1269 (H.B. 3426), Sec. 13, eff. September 1, 2007.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter C. Technology Services and Requirements › Section 434.101. Definitions

Sec. 434.101.  DEFINITIONS.  In this subchapter:
(1)  "Commission" means the Texas Veterans Commission.
(2)  "State electronic Internet portal" has the meaning assigned by Section 2054.003.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 69, Sec. 1, eff. May 16, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 973 (H.B. 1504), Sec. 5, eff. June 17, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter C. Technology Services and Requirements › Section 434.102. Veterans Website

Sec. 434.102.  VETERANS WEBSITE.  (a)  The Department of Information Resources shall establish and maintain on the state electronic Internet portal a veterans website.  The website must allow veterans to access information on state and federal veterans benefits programs.
(b)  A state agency that participates in the veterans website is encouraged to allow a veteran to electronically file for state veterans benefits, including the electronic signing of the filing by the veteran and an electronic acknowledgment of the filing.
(c)  The veterans website may allow a veteran to electronically file for selected federal veterans benefits, as specified by the commission.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 69, Sec. 1, eff. May 16, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 973 (H.B. 1504), Sec. 6, eff. June 17, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter C. Technology Services and Requirements › Section 434.103. Commission Forms

Sec. 434.103.  COMMISSION FORMS.  Commission forms shall contain:
(1)  the veterans website address maintained under Section 434.102;  and
(2)  the commission's toll-free telephone number.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 69, Sec. 1, eff. May 16, 2003.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter C. Technology Services and Requirements › Section 434.104. Benefits Booklets

Sec. 434.104.  BENEFITS BOOKLETS.  (a)  Not later than February 1 of each even-numbered year, the commission shall create an electronic state veterans benefits booklet.  The commission shall make a printable version of the booklet available to:
(1)  each veterans county service officer; and
(2)  the personnel office of each state or federal military installation in this state.
(b)  A veterans county service officer is encouraged to inform any person who claims or will claim Texas as a residence after discharge from the United States armed forces how to access the electronic state veterans benefits booklet.
(c)  Each veterans county service officer shall provide access to the electronic state veterans benefits booklet at the veterans county service office.
(d)  The commission may update the booklet as necessary.
(e)  The commission shall make the electronic state veterans benefits booklet available on the commission's website.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 69, Sec. 1, eff. May 16, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 38 (S.B. 1859), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter C. Technology Services and Requirements › Section 434.105. Electronic Access to Newsletter or Services

Sec. 434.105.  ELECTRONIC ACCESS TO NEWSLETTER OR SERVICES.  The commission, with the assistance of the executive director of the Department of Information Resources, may develop and implement a program that uses appropriate computer hardware and software and required training programs to facilitate electronic:
(1)  delivery of a veterans newsletter;  and
(2)  initiation of veterans benefits claims by veterans county service officers.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 69, Sec. 1, eff. May 16, 2003.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter C. Technology Services and Requirements › Section 434.107. Use of Technology

Sec. 434.107.  USE OF TECHNOLOGY.  The commission shall implement a policy requiring the commission to use appropriate technological solutions to improve the commission's ability to perform its functions.  The policy must ensure that the public is able to interact with the commission on the Internet.
Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1269 (H.B. 3426), Sec. 14, eff. September 1, 2007.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter C. Technology Services and Requirements › Section 434.108. Directory of Services

Sec. 434.108.  DIRECTORY OF SERVICES.  (a)  The commission shall collaborate with and assist the Department of State Health Services and the Health and Human Services Commission in compiling and maintaining the directory of services established under Section 161.552, Health and Safety Code.
(b)  The commission shall provide the directory of services established under Section 161.552, Health and Safety Code, on the commission's website or through links appearing on the commission's website.
Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1381 (S.B. 1058), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2007.
Renumbered from Government Code, Section 434.107 by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 87 (S.B. 1969), Sec. 27.001(30), eff. September 1, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter D. Texas Coordinating Council for Veterans Services › Section 434.151. Definitions

Sec. 434.151.  DEFINITIONS.  In this subchapter:
(1)  "Council" means the Texas Coordinating Council for Veterans Services.
(2)  "Servicemember" has the meaning assigned by Section 161.551, Health and Safety Code.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1112 (S.B. 1796), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter D. Texas Coordinating Council for Veterans Services › Section 434.152. Texas Coordinating Council for Veterans Services

Sec. 434.152.  TEXAS COORDINATING COUNCIL FOR VETERANS SERVICES.  The Texas Coordinating Council for Veterans Services is established to:
(1)  coordinate the activities of state agencies that assist veterans, servicemembers, and their families;
(2)  coordinate outreach efforts that ensure that veterans, servicemembers, and their families are made aware of services; and
(3)  facilitate collaborative relationships among state, federal, and local agencies and private organizations to identify and address issues affecting veterans, servicemembers, and their families.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1112 (S.B. 1796), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter D. Texas Coordinating Council for Veterans Services › Section 434.153. Composition of Council

Sec. 434.153.  COMPOSITION OF COUNCIL.  The council is composed of the director or executive head of the following entities, or that person's designated representative:
(1)  the Texas Veterans Commission;
(2)  the Veterans' Land Board;
(3)  the Texas Military Department;
(4)  the Health and Human Services Commission;
(5)  the State Bar of Texas;
(6)  the office of acquired brain injury of the Health and Human Services Commission;
(7)  the Department of State Health Services;
(8)  the Department of Family and Protective Services;
(9)  the Texas Workforce Commission;
(10)  the Texas Workforce Investment Council;
(11)  the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board;
(12)  the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation;
(13)  the Department of Public Safety;
(14)  the Texas Department of Criminal Justice;
(15)  the Commission on Jail Standards;
(16)  the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement;
(17)  the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs;
(18)  the Texas Department of Transportation;
(19)  the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles; and
(20)  the Office of Public Utility Counsel.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1112 (S.B. 1796), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2011.
Amended by:
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 502 (S.B. 1892), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2013.
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1217 (S.B. 1536), Sec. 2.08, eff. September 1, 2013.
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 38 (S.B. 1859), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter D. Texas Coordinating Council for Veterans Services › Section 434.154. Coordinating Workgroups

Sec. 434.154.  COORDINATING WORKGROUPS.
(a)  The council may, by majority vote, establish the following coordinating workgroups to focus on specific issues affecting veterans, servicemembers, and their families:
(1)  health;
(2)  mental health;
(3)  employment;
(4)  higher education;
(5)  criminal justice;
(6)  housing;
(7)  transportation;
(8)  women veterans;
(9)  pro bono legal services for veterans, including opportunities and obstacles for providing those services; and
(10)  any other coordinating workgroup considered necessary.
(b)  Repealed by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 502, Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2013.
(c)  Repealed by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 502, Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2013.
(d)  Repealed by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 502, Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2013.
(e)  Repealed by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 502, Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2013.
(f)  Repealed by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 502, Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2013.
(g)  Each member of the council may invite organizations or agencies that provide services to veterans, servicemembers, and their families, but that are not otherwise members of the council, to each designate a representative to participate in a coordinating workgroup through procedures established by the council.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1112 (S.B. 1796), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2011.
Amended by:
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 502 (S.B. 1892), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2013.
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 502 (S.B. 1892), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2013.
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 502 (S.B. 1892), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2013.
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 199 (S.B. 832), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2015.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 675 (S.B. 2104), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter D. Texas Coordinating Council for Veterans Services › Section 434.155. Presiding Officer

Sec. 434.155.  PRESIDING OFFICER.  The executive director of the Texas Veterans Commission shall serve as the presiding officer.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1112 (S.B. 1796), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter D. Texas Coordinating Council for Veterans Services › Section 434.156. Meetings

Sec. 434.156.  MEETINGS.  The council shall meet at least annually and at the call of the presiding officer.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1112 (S.B. 1796), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter D. Texas Coordinating Council for Veterans Services › Section 434.157. Administrative Support

Sec. 434.157.  ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT.  (a)  The council is administratively attached to the Texas Veterans Commission.  The Texas Veterans Commission may provide administrative support and resources to the council as necessary to enable the council to perform its duties.
(b)  A state agency represented on the council shall support the agency's involvement with the council and provide staff support as needed to the council.
(c)  The designated representative of any organization or agency that accepts an invitation to serve on a coordinating workgroup of the council under Section 434.154(g) is not entitled to compensation, but is entitled to reimbursement of the representative's travel expenses as provided by Chapter 660 and the General Appropriations Act.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1112 (S.B. 1796), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter D. Texas Coordinating Council for Veterans Services › Section 434.158. Report by Council

Sec. 434.158.  REPORT BY COUNCIL.  Not later than October 1 of each even-numbered year, the council shall submit a report to the governor, lieutenant governor, speaker of the house of representatives, and chairs of the appropriate committees of the legislature detailing the work of the council and any recommendations.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1112 (S.B. 1796), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter E. Texas Women Veterans Program › Section 434.201. Definitions

Sec. 434.201.  DEFINITIONS.  In this subchapter:
(1)  "Commission" means the Texas Veterans Commission.
(2)  "Executive director" means the executive director of the commission.
(3)  "Program" means the Texas Women Veterans Program.
(4)  "Woman veteran" means a woman who:
(A)  served on active duty in the armed forces of the United States or in the Texas National Guard on federal active duty under Title 10, United States Code; and
(B)  was discharged or released from that service under conditions other than dishonorable.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 325 (H.B. 867), Sec. 1, eff. June 4, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter E. Texas Women Veterans Program › Section 434.202. Establishment of Program; Program Mission

Sec. 434.202.  ESTABLISHMENT OF PROGRAM; PROGRAM MISSION.  (a)  The Texas Women Veterans Program is established in the commission.  The program is attached to the office of the executive director for administrative purposes.
(b)  The mission of the program is to ensure that the women veterans of this state have equitable access to federal and state veterans' benefits and services.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 325 (H.B. 867), Sec. 1, eff. June 4, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter E. Texas Women Veterans Program › Section 434.203. Coordinator

Sec. 434.203.  COORDINATOR.  (a)  The executive director shall designate a women veterans coordinator for this state.
(b)  The coordinator or the coordinator's designee shall serve as a liaison between state and federal agencies and organizations that provide benefits and services to women veterans.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 325 (H.B. 867), Sec. 1, eff. June 4, 2015.
Amended by:
Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 579 (S.B. 805), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2017.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter E. Texas Women Veterans Program › Section 434.204. General Program Duties

Sec. 434.204.  GENERAL PROGRAM DUTIES.  The program shall:
(1)  provide assistance to the women veterans of this state as provided by this subchapter;
(2)  perform outreach functions to improve the awareness of women veterans of their eligibility for federal and state veterans' benefits and services;
(3)  assess the needs of women veterans with respect to benefits and services;
(4)  review programs, research projects, and other initiatives designed to address the needs of the women veterans of this state;
(5)  make recommendations to the executive director regarding the improvement of benefits and services to women veterans;
(6)  incorporate issues concerning women veterans in commission planning regarding veterans' benefits and services; and
(7)  in collaboration with appropriate state agencies, provide information to women veterans on services and resources provided by state or federal agencies and organizations to women veterans.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 325 (H.B. 867), Sec. 1, eff. June 4, 2015.
Amended by:
Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 579 (S.B. 805), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2017.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter E. Texas Women Veterans Program › Section 434.205. Advocacy and Public Awareness

Sec. 434.205.  ADVOCACY AND PUBLIC AWARENESS.  (a)  The program shall advocate for women veterans and work to increase public awareness about the gender-specific needs of women veterans.
(b)  The program shall recommend legislative initiatives and the development of policies on the local, state, and national levels to address the issues affecting women veterans.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 325 (H.B. 867), Sec. 1, eff. June 4, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter E. Texas Women Veterans Program › Section 434.206. Collaboration

Sec. 434.206.  COLLABORATION.  The program shall collaborate with federal, state, county, municipal, and private agencies that provide services to women veterans.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 325 (H.B. 867), Sec. 1, eff. June 4, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter E. Texas Women Veterans Program › Section 434.207. Research; Dissemination of Information

Sec. 434.207.  RESEARCH; DISSEMINATION OF INFORMATION.  (a)  The program shall monitor and research issues relating to women veterans.
(b)  The program shall disseminate information regarding opportunities for women veterans throughout the network of entities with which the program collaborates.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 325 (H.B. 867), Sec. 1, eff. June 4, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter E. Texas Women Veterans Program › Section 434.208. Education

Sec. 434.208.  EDUCATION.  Through conferences, seminars, and training workshops with federal, state, county, municipal, and private agencies, the program shall provide guidance and direction to a woman veteran who is applying for grants, benefits, or services.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 325 (H.B. 867), Sec. 1, eff. June 4, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle C - State Military Forces and Veterans › Chapter 434 - Veteran Assistance Agencies › Subchapter E. Texas Women Veterans Program › Section 434.209. Honor and Recognition

Sec. 434.209.  HONOR AND RECOGNITION.  The program shall promote events and activities that recognize and honor the women veterans of this state and women who serve in the military.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 325 (H.B. 867), Sec. 1, eff. June 4, 2015.