Healthcare (Mental Health)

S 1302 creates two bodies to address veteran support in New Jersey. A 13-member task force will study issues faced by service members returning from Afghanistan/Iraq deployments (including mental health, employment, and family needs) and recommend state actions. A separate 5-member commission will review inconsistent state definitions of "veteran" and "disabled veteran" to improve clarity and uniformity. Both groups must issue reports with findings and legislative recommendations within six months. The bill directly affects returning National Guard members, reservists, and their families, focusing on practical support systems rather than new benefits.