Veterans Services, Dept. of - As enacted, requires the department to conduct a study that includes an evaluation of county veterans service office resources; the identification of underserved areas; operational capacity; local outreach efforts, community outreach events, partnerships, and other entities providing, or sources of, assistance for veterans at the local level; and the identification of potential funding mechanisms to support local veterans service offices; requires the department to compile a report of the study by December 31, 2026. - Amends TCA Title 4, Chapter 25 and Title 58, Chapter 3.

HB 2143 sets staffing and accreditation standards for Tennessee's local veterans service offices. It requires each office to have at least one "county veterans service officer" (CVSO, a veteran) and establishes ratios for non-veteran staff ("county veterans service representatives" or CVSRs). The bill mandates all staff must obtain U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs accreditation within six months of hire, complete annual training, and pass background checks, with veterans given hiring preference. It also sets minimum salary rates, requires budget transparency, and creates state salary grants to help counties meet staffing requirements. The bill directly affects local governments operating veterans offices and their employees.