Legislation (S-1534/1771 Scs) sponsored by Senators Anthony Bucco and Joseph Pennacchio making it easier for veterans to obtain a county veteran identification card has been signed into law. The new law also expands access to members of the National Guard who have served outside of New Jersey.

“All veterans, including those who have served nationwide in the National Guard, should be able to easily access the benefits they have earned,” Senator Bucco (R-Morris) said. “Thousands have already gone through the process of receiving a veteran ID card from their county. Allowing service members to supply approved separation forms other than a DD-214 will encourage more veterans to participate in programs for the military throughout the state.”

Under prior law, veterans had to submit a DD-214 form in order to be eligible to receive a county veteran identification card.

The new law allows other approved separation forms, as specified by all branches of the military, to be accepted from an applicant for a county veteran identification card.

“A county veteran identification card is essential to ensuring service members can take advantage of opportunities to succeed when they return home to New Jersey,” Senator Pennacchio (R-Essex, Morris, Passaic) said. “I have heard from far too many veterans in my district who were unable to access this designation. We have a responsibility to support these brave heroes on and off the battlefield. I’m glad to see this bill signed into law.”

Veterans who have served in the National Guard in other states will now be eligible to receive a veteran ID card in New Jersey. Previously, only veterans who served in the National Guard in this state were eligible to receive the identification.

The Adjutant General of the Department of Military and Veterans’ Affairs will assist in the identification and verification of acceptable forms of separation.