Public hearing Monday on veterans affairs changes

The Iowa House Veterans Affairs Committee will have a public hearing on House Study Bill 270 from 3 to 4 p.m. March 17 in the Supreme Court Chamber of the Capitol in Des Moines.

The committee is considering House Study Bill 270 that would make changes in the administration of the Veterans Home in Marshalltown and the community-based veterans services.

People wishing to HSB 270 will have three minutes to speak. To get on the schedule, call the Legislative Information Office at (515) 281-5129. Copies of the speaker's comments are encouraged.

The bill would change the name of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Commission of Veterans Affairs to the Department of Veterans Services and the Commission of Veterans Services.

The renamed department would have two divisions -- The Veterans Home Services Division and the Community-based Veterans Services Division. The former would oversee the Veterans Home. The latter will be responsible for duties assigned by director.