October 9, 2023
On Wednesday, October 4, 2023, following both state and federal reports criticizing the COVID-19 response at state-run nursing homes for veterans, Governor Phil Murphy and a group of State Senators announced a conceptual agreement to pursue structural reforms to the delivery of veteran services in New Jersey.
Senators Joseph Vitale (D-19th District), Joseph Cryan 9D-20th District), Patrick Diegnan (D-18th District), and Joseph Lagana (D-38th District) joined Governor Murphy in issuing a press release which read, "As highlighted in both the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) and the State of New Jersey Commission of Investigation reports, comprehensive reform - from ensuring we have adequately paid staff, to upgrading communication and physical infrastructure, to instilling a thorough understanding of best practices - is necessary."
A federal monitor will be appointed to oversee improvements at New Jersey's Veterans Memorial Homes. The monitor will work with the state to create a thorough plan of correction, set clear targets for improvement, and hold New Jersey accountable with continuous and transparent reporting.
Additionally, Governor Murphy and the coalition of Senators announced they are working on legislation that will elevate the veterans' services currently provided by the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (NJDMAVA), including oversight of the Veterans Memorial Homes to a veterans-centric cabinet level position, much like the federal model and that of several other states.
Click here to read the relevant news release and for more information.
