This measure would recognize the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers for helping veterans secure their federal and state benefits over the past 70 years.

This measure would recognize the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers for helping veterans secure their federal and state benefits over the past 70 years.

This measure would recognize the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers for helping veterans secure their federal and state benefits over the past 70 years.

This measure would recognize the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers for helping veterans secure their federal and state benefits over the past 70 years.

This measure would recognize the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers for helping veterans secure their federal and state benefits over the past 70 years.

This measure would designate the Honor and Remember Flag as the states emblem of service, and encourage the display of that flag at all state military memorials, state veteran cemeteries, and certain other public displays.

WHEREAS, Some California counties established County Veterans Service Officers (CVSO) after World War I to assist Californias veterans to obtain the federal veterans benefits they earned by virtue of their service to our country; and

WHEREAS, San Bernardino established the first CVSO office in California in 1926, and at least 10 other counties with large veteran populations also established CVSO offices between World War I and World War II; and

WHEREAS, At the end of World War II, most California counties recognized the need to help their returning veterans to obtain federal benefits and quickly established CVSO offices in their counties; and

WHEREAS, In 1945, with the end of World War II and the return of thousands of veterans to California, the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers (CACVSO) was formed; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO was created to assist returning veterans in accessing their earned entitlements as authorized by Congress, such as the GI Bill for education and the veteran home loan program, as well as compensation and pension benefits for wounded veterans and their families; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO promotes state and federal legislation and policy supportive of veterans rights and issues, in harmony with our national obligation to veterans of the United States Armed Forces; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO provides a medium for the exchange of ideas, information, training, and support to facilitate delivery of services to nearly two million California veterans; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO recognizes the importance and merit of the congressionally chartered veterans service organizations and is committed to fostering a mutually beneficial relationship with them for the common good of all veterans, since it is the intent of all these organizations that every veteran residing in California receives the benefits and services to which they are entitled by law and moral obligation; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO is an organization of professional veterans advocates whose purpose is to mutually promote the professionalism of all CVSOs; and

WHEREAS, Through CVSOs, the CACVSO is committed to California counties to provide a vital and efficient system of services and advocacy for veterans, their dependents, and their survivors; and

WHEREAS, The State of California has adopted and is currently using the CVSO model that is used in 27 other states as the primary method of delivering services to veterans; and

WHEREAS, In California, a CVSO plays a critical role in the veterans advocacy system and is often the initial contact in the community for veterans services; and

WHEREAS, The CVSOs and the California Department of Veterans Affairs work closely together to assist Californias veterans in obtaining federal and state veterans benefits, with CVSOs serving as the boots on the ground for the department; and

WHEREAS, CVSOs are primarily funded by the counties and receive some state funding; and

WHEREAS, Since 1995, CVSOs have assisted veterans in qualifying for and receiving $4.6 billion in federal benefits, which are sent directly to veterans and ultimately spent in the local economy; and

WHEREAS, In the 201314 fiscal year, CVSOs assisted Californias veterans in filing claims with the federal government that resulted in payments of more than $545 million, an increase of over 23 percent from the $445 million that the CVSOs helped veterans claim during the previous fiscal year, which is attributable to increased state funding from $2.6 million in 2013 to $5.6 million in 2014, which allowed CVSO offices to increase outreach activities and hire additional staff to assist veterans in the claims process; and

WHEREAS, CVSOs are responsible for planning and administering a countywide program, so they must be knowledgeable about all entitlements, programs, and ancillary services as administered by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Defense, the California Department of Veterans Affairs, and other federal, state, and local agencies; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO has raised the professionalism of all CVSOs through training and working to improve the federal claims process with the California Department of Veterans Affairs, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, and congressionally chartered veterans service organizations; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO promotes the welfare and rights of veterans statewide through legislative advocacy, provides training and education to CVSOs and their employees, promotes the mission of CVSOs throughout the state, and provides members of the CACVSO with a collaborative network of resources, information, and ideas; now, therefore, be it

Resolvedby the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature commends the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers for 70 years of service to Californias veterans and their families through the advancement of professionalism within its ranks and the pursuit of advocacy across all levels of government so that veterans may receive the benefits to which they are entitled by virtue of their military service to our country; and be it further

Resolved, That the CACVSO has maintained and nurtured the high professional standards of Californias CVSOs so that these veterans advocates can fulfill the CACVSOs slogan of Serving Those Who Served; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.

WHEREAS, Some California counties established County Veterans Service Officers (CVSO) after World War I to assist Californias veterans to obtain the federal veterans benefits they earned by virtue of their service to our country; and

WHEREAS, San Bernardino established the first CVSO office in California in 1926, and at least 10 other counties with large veteran populations also established CVSO offices between World War I and World War II; and

WHEREAS, At the end of World War II, most California counties recognized the need to help their returning veterans to obtain federal benefits and quickly established CVSO offices in their counties; and

WHEREAS, In 1945, with the end of World War II and the return of thousands of veterans to California, the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers (CACVSO) was formed; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO was created to assist returning veterans in accessing their earned entitlements as authorized by Congress, such as the GI Bill for education and the veteran home loan program, as well as compensation and pension benefits for wounded veterans and their families; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO promotes state and federal legislation and policy supportive of veterans rights and issues, in harmony with our national obligation to veterans of the United States Armed Forces; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO provides a medium for the exchange of ideas, information, training, and support to facilitate delivery of services to nearly two million California veterans; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO recognizes the importance and merit of the congressionally chartered veterans service organizations and is committed to fostering a mutually beneficial relationship with them for the common good of all veterans, since it is the intent of all these organizations that every veteran residing in California receives the benefits and services to which they are entitled by law and moral obligation; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO is an organization of professional veterans advocates whose purpose is to mutually promote the professionalism of all CVSOs; and

WHEREAS, Through CVSOs, the CACVSO is committed to California counties to provide a vital and efficient system of services and advocacy for veterans, their dependents, and their survivors; and

WHEREAS, The State of California has adopted and is currently using the CVSO model that is used in 27 other states as the primary method of delivering services to veterans; and

WHEREAS, In California, a CVSO plays a critical role in the veterans advocacy system and is often the initial contact in the community for veterans services; and

WHEREAS, The CVSOs and the California Department of Veterans Affairs work closely together to assist Californias veterans in obtaining federal and state veterans benefits, with CVSOs serving as the boots on the ground for the department; and

WHEREAS, CVSOs are primarily funded by the counties and receive some state funding; and

WHEREAS, Since 1995, CVSOs have assisted veterans in qualifying for and receiving $4.6 billion in federal benefits, which are sent directly to veterans and ultimately spent in the local economy; and

WHEREAS, In the 201314 fiscal year, CVSOs assisted Californias veterans in filing claims with the federal government that resulted in payments of more than $545 million, an increase of over 23 percent from the $445 million that the CVSOs helped veterans claim during the previous fiscal year, which is attributable to increased state funding from $2.6 million in 2013 to $5.6 million in 2014, which allowed CVSO offices to increase outreach activities and hire additional staff to assist veterans in the claims process; and

WHEREAS, CVSOs are responsible for planning and administering a countywide program, so they must be knowledgeable about all entitlements, programs, and ancillary services as administered by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Defense, the California Department of Veterans Affairs, and other federal, state, and local agencies; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO has raised the professionalism of all CVSOs through training and working to improve the federal claims process with the California Department of Veterans Affairs, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, and congressionally chartered veterans service organizations; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO promotes the welfare and rights of veterans statewide through legislative advocacy, provides training and education to CVSOs and their employees, promotes the mission of CVSOs throughout the state, and provides members of the CACVSO with a collaborative network of resources, information, and ideas; now, therefore, be it

Resolvedby the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature commends the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers for 70 years of service to Californias veterans and their families through the advancement of professionalism within its ranks and the pursuit of advocacy across all levels of government so that veterans may receive the benefits to which they are entitled by virtue of their military service to our country; and be it further

Resolved, That the CACVSO has maintained and nurtured the high professional standards of Californias CVSOs so that these veterans advocates can fulfill the CACVSOs slogan of Serving Those Who Served; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.

WHEREAS, Some California counties established County Veterans Service Officers (CVSO) after World War I to assist Californias veterans to obtain the federal veterans benefits they earned by virtue of their service to our country; and

WHEREAS, San Bernardino established the first CVSO office in California in 1926, and at least 10 other counties with large veteran populations also established CVSO offices between World War I and World War II; and

WHEREAS, At the end of World War II, most California counties recognized the need to help their returning veterans to obtain federal benefits and quickly established CVSO offices in their counties; and

WHEREAS, In 1945, with the end of World War II and the return of thousands of veterans to California, the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers (CACVSO) was formed; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO was created to assist returning veterans in accessing their earned entitlements as authorized by Congress, such as the GI Bill for education and the veteran home loan program, as well as compensation and pension benefits for wounded veterans and their families; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO promotes state and federal legislation and policy supportive of veterans rights and issues, in harmony with our national obligation to veterans of the United States Armed Forces; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO provides a medium for the exchange of ideas, information, training, and support to facilitate delivery of services to nearly two million California veterans; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO recognizes the importance and merit of the congressionally chartered veterans service organizations and is committed to fostering a mutually beneficial relationship with them for the common good of all veterans, since it is the intent of all these organizations that every veteran residing in California receives the benefits and services to which they are entitled by law and moral obligation; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO is an organization of professional veterans advocates whose purpose is to mutually promote the professionalism of all CVSOs; and

WHEREAS, Through CVSOs, the CACVSO is committed to California counties to provide a vital and efficient system of services and advocacy for veterans, their dependents, and their survivors; and

WHEREAS, The State of California has adopted and is currently using the CVSO model that is used in 27 other states as the primary method of delivering services to veterans; and

WHEREAS, In California, a CVSO plays a critical role in the veterans advocacy system and is often the initial contact in the community for veterans services; and

WHEREAS, The CVSOs and the California Department of Veterans Affairs work closely together to assist Californias veterans in obtaining federal and state veterans benefits, with CVSOs serving as the boots on the ground for the department; and

WHEREAS, CVSOs are primarily funded by the counties and receive some state funding; and

WHEREAS, Since 1995, CVSOs have assisted veterans in qualifying for and receiving $4.6 billion in federal benefits, which are sent directly to veterans and ultimately spent in the local economy; and

WHEREAS, In the 201314 fiscal year, CVSOs assisted Californias veterans in filing claims with the federal government that resulted in payments of more than $545 million, an increase of over 23 percent from the $445 million that the CVSOs helped veterans claim during the previous fiscal year, which is attributable to increased state funding from $2.6 million in 2013 to $5.6 million in 2014, which allowed CVSO offices to increase outreach activities and hire additional staff to assist veterans in the claims process; and

WHEREAS, CVSOs are responsible for planning and administering a countywide program, so they must be knowledgeable about all entitlements, programs, and ancillary services as administered by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Defense, the California Department of Veterans Affairs, and other federal, state, and local agencies; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO has raised the professionalism of all CVSOs through training and working to improve the federal claims process with the California Department of Veterans Affairs, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, and congressionally chartered veterans service organizations; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO promotes the welfare and rights of veterans statewide through legislative advocacy, provides training and education to CVSOs and their employees, promotes the mission of CVSOs throughout the state, and provides members of the CACVSO with a collaborative network of resources, information, and ideas; now, therefore, be it

Resolvedby the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature commends the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers for 70 years of service to Californias veterans and their families through the advancement of professionalism within its ranks and the pursuit of advocacy across all levels of government so that veterans may receive the benefits to which they are entitled by virtue of their military service to our country; and be it further

Resolved, That the CACVSO has maintained and nurtured the high professional standards of Californias CVSOs so that these veterans advocates can fulfill the CACVSOs slogan of Serving Those Who Served; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.

WHEREAS, Some California counties established County Veterans Service Officers (CVSOs) (CVSO) after World War I to assist Californias veterans to obtain the federal veterans benefits they earned by virtue of their service to our country; and

WHEREAS, San Bernardino established the first CVSO office in California in 1926, and at least 10 other counties with large veteran populations also established CVSO offices between World War I and World War II; and

WHEREAS, At the end of World War II, most California counties recognized the need to help their returning veterans to obtain federal benefits, benefits and quickly established CVSO offices in their counties; and

WHEREAS, In 1945, with the end of World War II and the return of thousands of veterans to California, the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers (CACVSO) was formed; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO was created to assist returning veterans in accessing their earned entitlements as authorized by Congress, such as the GI Bill for education and the veteran home loan program, as well as compensation and pension benefits for wounded veterans and their families; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO promotes state and federal legislation and policy supportive of veterans rights and issues, in harmony with our national obligation to veterans of the United States Armed Forces; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO provides a medium for the exchange of ideas, information, training, and support to facilitate delivery of services to nearly two million California veterans; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO recognizes the importance and merit of the congressionally chartered veterans service organizations, organizations and is committed to fostering a mutually beneficial relationship with them for the common good of all veterans, since it is the intent of all these organizations that every veteran residing in California receives the benefits and services to which they are entitled by law and moral obligation; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO is an organization of professional veterans advocates whose purpose is to mutually promote the professionalism of all CVSOs; and

WHEREAS, Through CVSOs, the CACVSO is committed to California counties to provide a vital and efficient system of services and advocacy for veterans, their dependents, and their survivors; and

WHEREAS, The State of California has adopted and is currently using the CVSO model that is used in 27 other states as the primary method of delivering services to veterans; and

WHEREAS, In California, a CVSO plays a critical role in the veterans advocacy system and is often the initial contact in the community for veterans services; and

WHEREAS, The CVSOs and the California Department of Veterans Affairs work closely together to assist Californias veterans in obtaining federal and state veterans benefits, with CVSOs serving as the boots on the ground for the department; and

WHEREAS, CVSOs are primarily funded by the counties, counties and receive some state funding; and

WHEREAS, Since 1995, CVSOs have assisted veterans in qualifying for and receiving $4.6 billion in federal benefits, which are sent directly to veterans and ultimately spent in the local economy; and

WHEREAS, In the 201314 fiscal year, CVSOs assisted Californias veterans in filing claims with the federal government that resulted in payments of more than $545 million, an increase of over 23 percent from the $445 million that the CVSOs helped veterans claim during the previous fiscal year, which is attributable to increased state funding, funding from $2.6 million in 2013 to $5.6 million in 2014, which allowed CVSO offices to increase outreach activities and hire additional staff to assist veterans in the claims process; and

WHEREAS, CVSOs are responsible for planning and administering a countywide program, so they must be knowledgeable about all entitlements, programs, and ancillary services as administered by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Defense, the California Department of Veterans Affairs, and other federal, state, and local agencies; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO has raised the professionalism of all CVSOs through training and working to improve the federal claims process with the California Department of Veterans Affairs, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, and congressionally chartered veterans service organizations; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO promotes the welfare and rights of veterans statewide through legislative advocacy, provides training and education to CVSOs and their employees, promotes the mission of CVSOs throughout the state, and provides members of the CACVSO with a collaborative network of resources, information, and ideas; now, therefore, be it

Resolvedby the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature commends the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers for 70 years of service to Californias veterans and their families through the advancement of professionalism within its ranks and the pursuit of advocacy across all levels of government so that veterans may receive the benefits to which they are entitled by virtue of their military service to our country; and be it further

Resolved, That the CACVSO has maintained and nurtured the high professional standards of Californias CVSOs so that these veterans advocates can fulfill the CACVSOs slogan of Serving Those Who Served; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.

WHEREAS, Some California counties established County Veterans Service Officers (CVSOs) after World War I to assist Californias veterans to obtain their hard-earned entitlement; the federal veterans benefits they earned by virtue of their service to our country; and

WHEREAS, San Bernardino established the first CVSO office in California in 1926, and at least 10 other counties with large veteran populations also established CVSO offices between World War I and World War II; and

WHEREAS, At the end of World War II, most California counties recognized the need to help their returning veterans to obtain federal benefits, and quickly established CVSO offices in their counties; and

WHEREAS, In 1945, with the end of World War II and the return of thousands of veterans to California, the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers (CACVSO) was formed; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO was created to assist returning veterans in accessing their earned entitlements as authorized by Congress, such as the GI Bill for education and the veteran home loan program, as well as compensation and pension benefits for wounded veterans and their families; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO promotes state and federal legislation and policy supportive of veterans rights and issues, in harmony with our national obligation to veterans of the United States Armed Forces; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO provides a medium for the exchange of ideas, information, training, and support to facilitate delivery of services to nearly two million California veterans; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO recognizes the importance and merit of the congressionally chartered veterans service organizations, and is committed to fostering a mutually beneficial relationship with them for the common good of all veterans, since it is the intent of all these organizations that every veteran residing in California receives the benefits and services to which they are entitled by law and moral obligation; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO is an organization of professional veterans advocates whose purpose is to mutually promote the professionalism of all CVSOs; and

WHEREAS, Through CVSOs, the CACVSO is committed to California counties to provide a vital and efficient system of services and advocacy for veterans, their dependents, and their survivors; and

WHEREAS, The State of California has adopted and is currently using the CVSO model that is used in 27 other states as the primary method of delivering services to veterans; and

WHEREAS, In California, a CVSO plays a critical role in the veterans advocacy system and is often the initial contact in the community for veterans services; and

WHEREAS, The CVSOs and the California Department of Veterans Affairs work closely together to assist Californias veterans in obtaining federal and state veterans benefits, with CVSOs serving as the boots on the ground for the department; and

WHEREAS, CVSOs are primarily funded by the counties, and receive some state funding; and

WHEREAS, Since 1995, CVSOs have assisted veterans in qualifying for and receiving $4.6 billion in federal benefits, which are sent directly to veterans and ultimately spent in the local economy; and

WHEREAS, In the 201314 fiscal year, CVSOs assisted Californias veterans in filing claims with the federal government that resulted in payments of more than $545 million, an increase of over 23 percent from the $445 million that the CVSOs helped veterans claim during the previous fiscal year, which is attributable to increased state funding, from $2.6 million in 2013 to $5.6 million in 2014, which allowed CVSO offices to increase outreach activities and hire additional staff to assist veterans in the claims process; and

WHEREAS, CVSOs are responsible for planning and administering a countywide program, so they must be knowledgeable about all entitlements, programs, and ancillary services as administered by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Defense, the California Department of Veterans Affairs, and other federal, state, and local agencies; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO has raised the professionalism of all CVSOs through training and working to improve the federal claims process with the California Department of Veterans Affairs, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, and congressionally chartered veterans service organizations; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO promotes the welfare and rights of veterans statewide through legislative advocacy, provides training and education to CVSOs and their employees, promotes the mission of CVSOs throughout the state, and provides members of the CACVSO with a collaborative network of resources, information, and ideas; now, therefore, be it

Resolved BY THE ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA, THE SENATE THEREOF CONCURRING, by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature commends the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers for 70 years of service to Californias veterans and their families through the advancement of professionalism within its ranks and the pursuit of advocacy across all levels of government so that veterans may receive the benefits to which they are entitled by virtue of their military service to our country; and be it further

Resolved, That the CACVSO has maintained and nurtured the high professional standards of Californias CVSOs so that these veterans advocates can fulfill the CACVSOs slogan of Serving Those Who Served; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.

WHEREAS, Some California counties established County Veterans Service Officers (CVSOs) after World War I to assist Californias veterans to obtain their hard-earned entitlement; and

WHEREAS, San Bernardino established the first CVSO office in California in 1926, and at least 10 other counties with large veteran populations also established CVSO offices between World War I and World War II; and

WHEREAS, At the end of World War II, most California counties recognized the need to help their returning veterans to obtain federal benefits, and quickly established CVSO offices in their counties; and

WHEREAS, In 1945, with the end of World War II and the return of thousands of veterans to California, the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers (CACVSO) was formed; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO was created to assist returning veterans in accessing their earned entitlements as authorized by Congress, such as the GI Bill for education and the veteran home loan program, as well as compensation and pension benefits for wounded veterans and their families; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO promotes state and federal legislation and policy supportive of veterans rights and issues, in harmony with our national obligation to veterans of the United States Armed Forces; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO provides a medium for the exchange of ideas, information, training, and support to facilitate delivery of services to nearly two million California veterans; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO recognizes the importance and merit of the congressionally chartered veterans service organizations, and is committed to fostering a mutually beneficial relationship with them for the common good of all veterans, since it is the intent of all these organizations that every veteran residing in California receives the benefits and services to which they are entitled by law and moral obligation; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO is an organization of professional veterans advocates whose purpose is to mutually promote the professionalism of all CVSOs; and

WHEREAS, Through CVSOs, the CACVSO is committed to California counties to provide a vital and efficient system of services and advocacy for veterans, their dependents, and their survivors; and

WHEREAS, The State of California has adopted and is currently using the CVSO model that is used in 27 other states as the primary method of delivering services to veterans; and

WHEREAS, In California, a CVSO plays a critical role in the veterans advocacy system and is often the initial contact in the community for veterans services; and

WHEREAS, The CVSOs and the California Department of Veterans Affairs work closely together to assist Californias veterans in obtaining federal and state veterans benefits, with CVSOs serving as the boots on the ground for the department; and

WHEREAS, CVSOs are primarily funded by the counties, and receive some state funding; and

WHEREAS, Since 1995, CVSOs have assisted veterans in qualifying for and receiving $4.6 billion in federal benefits, which are sent directly to veterans and ultimately spent in the local economy; and

WHEREAS, In the 201314 fiscal year, CVSOs assisted Californias veterans in filing claims with the federal government that resulted in payments of more than $545 million, an increase of over 23 percent from the $445 million that the CVSOs helped veterans claim during the previous fiscal year, which is attributable to increased state funding, from $2.6 million in 2013 to $5.6 million in 2014, which allowed CVSO offices to increase outreach activities and hire additional staff to assist veterans in the claims process; and

WHEREAS, CVSOs are responsible for planning and administering a countywide program, so they must be knowledgeable about all entitlements, programs, and ancillary services as administered by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Defense, the California Department of Veterans Affairs, and other federal, state, and local agencies; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO has raised the professionalism of all CVSOs through training and working to improve the federal claims process with the California Department of Veterans Affairs, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, and congressionally chartered veterans service organizations; and

WHEREAS, The CACVSO promotes the welfare and rights of veterans statewide through legislative advocacy, provides training and education to CVSOs and their employees, promotes the mission of CVSOs throughout the state, and provides members of the CACVSO with a collaborative network of resources, information, and ideas; now, therefore, be it

Resolved BY THE ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA, THE SENATE THEREOF CONCURRING, That the Legislature commends the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers for 70 years of service to Californias veterans and their families through the advancement of professionalism within its ranks and the pursuit of advocacy across all levels of government so that veterans may receive the benefits to which they are entitled by virtue of their military service to our country; and be it further

Resolved, That the CACVSO has maintained and nurtured the high professional standards of Californias CVSOs so that these veterans advocates can fulfill the CACVSOs slogan of Serving Those Who Served; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.

WHEREAS, Since the Revolutionary War, more than one million members of the United States Armed Forces have paid the ultimate price by sacrificing their lives in the line of duty; and

WHEREAS, The contribution of those fallen members of the United States Armed Forces are deserving of national recognition; and

WHEREAS, There is no officially recognized symbol that specifically acknowledges members of the United States Armed Forces who have died in the line of duty; and

WHEREAS, House Resolution No. 1034 of the 111th Congress designates the Honor and Remember Flag, created by Honor and Remember, Inc., to officially recognize and honor fallen members of the United States Armed Forces; and

WHEREAS, The Honor and Remember Flags red field represents the blood shed by brave men and women who sacrificed their lives for freedom; and

WHEREAS, The Honor and Remember Flags blue star is a symbol of active service in military conflict that dates back to World War I; and

WHEREAS, The Honor and Remember Flags white border recognizes the purity of sacrifice; and

WHEREAS, The Honor and Remember Flags gold star signifies the ultimate sacrifice of a warrior in active service who is not returning home and reflects the value of the life given; and

WHEREAS, The Honor and Remember Flags folded flag element highlights this nations final tribute to a fallen serviceperson and a familys sacrifice; and

WHEREAS, The Honor and Remember Flags flame symbolizes the eternal spirit of the departed; and

WHEREAS, It benefits the State of California to answer calls for a unifying symbol recognizing this nations solemn debt to the estimated 1.6 million fallen servicepersons throughout history and the families and communities who mourned their loss; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature designates the Honor and Remember Flag as the states emblem of service and sacrifice by the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces who have given their lives in the line of duty; and be it further

Resolved, That the Legislature encourages the display of the Honor and Remember Flag at all state military memorials and state veteran cemeteries, as well as public displays on Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Fourth of July, National POW/MIA Recognition Day, Veterans Day, Gold Star Mothers Day, and whenever there is a state military casualty; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.

 THIRD READING 

Bill No: ACR 36

Author: Gray (D), et al.

Amended: 9/2/15 in Assembly

Vote: 21

ASSEMBLY FLOOR: Read and adopted, 9/2/15

SUBJECT: California Association of County Veterans Service Officers

SOURCE: Author

DIGEST:

This resolution recognizes the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers for helping veterans secure their federal and state benefits over the past 70 years.

ANALYSIS: This resolution makes the following legislative findings:

1. Some California counties established County Veterans Service Officers (CVSO) after World War I to assist California’s veterans to obtain the federal veterans benefits they earned by virtue of their service to our country.

2. In 1945, with the end of World War II and the return of thousands of veterans to California, the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers (CACVSO) was formed to assist returning veterans in accessing their earned entitlements as authorized by Congress, such as the GI Bill for education and the veteran home loan program, as well as compensation and pension benefits for wounded veterans and their families.

3. The CACVSO provides a medium for the exchange of ideas, information, training, and support to facilitate delivery of services to nearly two million California veterans.

4. The CVSOs and the California Department of Veterans Affairs work closely together to assist California’s veterans in obtaining federal and state veterans benefits, with CVSOs serving as the “boots on the ground” for the Department.

5. CVSOs are primarily funded by the counties and receive some state funding.

6. The CACVSO promotes the welfare and rights of veterans statewide through legislative advocacy, provides training and education to CVSOs and their employees, promotes the mission of CVSOs throughout the state, and provides members of the CACVSO with a collaborative network of resources, information, and ideas.

This resolution commends the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers for 70 years of service to California’s veterans and their families through the advancement of professionalism within its ranks and the pursuit of advocacy across all levels of government so that veterans may receive the benefits to which they are entitled by virtue of their military service to our country, and that the CACVSO has maintained and nurtured the high professional standards of California’s CVSOs so that these veterans advocates can fulfill the CACVSO’s slogan of “Serving Those Who Served.”

FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: No Local: No

SUPPORT: (Verified 9/4/15)

American Legion – Department of California

AMVETS- Department of California

California Association of County Veterans Service Officers

California Council of Chapters

California State Commanders Veterans Council

Military Officers Association of America

National Association for Uniformed Services

VFW – Department of California

Vietnam Veterans of America-California State Council

OPPOSITION: (Verified 9/4/15)

None received

Prepared by: Karen Chow / SFA / (916) 651-1520

9/4/15 18:08:54

**** END ****

ASSEMBLY THIRD READING

ATR Bill Id:ACR 36

Author:(Gray)

As Amended Ver:September 1, 2015

Majority vote

SUMMARY: This resolution recognizes the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers for helping veterans secure their federal and state benefits over the past 70 years. Specifically, this resolution:

1. States that the Assembly and the Senate of the State of California concur in commending the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers (CACVSO) for 70 years of service to California's veterans and their families through the advancement of professionalism within its ranks and the pursuit of advocacy across all levels of government so that veterans may receive the benefits to which they are entitled by virtue of their military service to our country;

2. States that the Assembly and the Senate of the State of California resolve that the CACVSO has maintained and nurtured the high professional standards of California's county veteran service officers (CVSOs) so that these veterans advocates can fulfill the CACVSO's slogan of "Serving Those Who Served";

3. States that the Assembly and the Senate of the State of California further resolve that the Chief Clerk of the Assembly shall transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.

FISCAL EFFECT: This resolution is not keyed fiscal.

COMMENTS: The California CVSOs proudly and expertly take on our collective responsibility to care for and honor those who have served in the defense of this Nation.

Without question the CVSOs are a critical resource and are essential advocates for California veterans. Though it is theoretically possible for a veteran to self-educate and advocate for benefits, the reality is that success requires specialized knowledge, training, and experience. The CVSOs have all of those skills and more with which to support the veterans

In the fiscal year 2013-14, through the CVSOs California veterans obtained approximately $546 million in new, recurring benefits. However, the positive impact the CVSOs have for veterans is beyond measurement in dollars. The benefits a veteran obtains may provide for life-changing education, low or no cost health benefits to stay healthy, employment and training services to prepare for and gain employment, and much more.

The direct impact to veterans is not the end of the benefit of the CVSOs' work. There are innumerable veteran families the CVSOs have assisted or impacted positively with their advocacy.

Finally, it is without question that the CVSOs have helped veterans survive the most extreme of hardships; their work has kept veterans from homelessness, malnourishment, illness and despair, and quite literally, saved veterans' lives.

This resolution recognizes the critical importance of the CVSOs. Furthermore, the resolution expresses the commendation of the entire Legislature for the contribution and positive impact the CVSOs have had on California veterans.

Analysis Prepared by: John Spangler / V.A. / (916) 319-3550 FN: 0001926

ASSEMBLY THIRD READING

ATR Bill Id:ACR 36

Author:(Gray)

As Amended Ver:August 17, 2015

Majority vote

SUMMARY: Recognizes the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers for helping veterans secure their federal and state benefits over the past 70 years. Specifically, this resolution:

1. States that the Assembly and the Senate of the State of California concur in commending the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers (CACVSO) for 70 years of service to California's veterans and their families through the advancement of professionalism within its ranks and the pursuit of advocacy across all levels of government so that veterans may receive the benefits to which they are entitled by virtue of their military service to our country;

2. States that the Assembly and the Senate of the State of California resolve that the CACVSO has maintained and nurtured the high professional standards of California's county veteran service officers (CVSOs) so that these veterans advocates can fulfill the CACVSO's slogan of "Serving Those Who Served";

3. States that the Assembly and the Senate of the State of California further resolve that the Chief Clerk of the Assembly shall transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.

FISCAL EFFECT: This resolution is keyed non-fiscal by the Legislative Counsel.

COMMENTS: The California CVSOs proudly and expertly take on our collective responsibility to care for and honor those who have served in the defense of this Nation.

Without question the CVSOs are a critical resource and are essential advocates for California veterans. Though it is theoretically possible for a veteran to self-educate and advocate for benefits, the reality is that success requires specialized knowledge, training, and experience. The CVSOs have all of that and more to support the veterans

In the fiscal year 2013-2014, through the CVSOs California veterans obtained approximately $546 million in new, recurring benefits. However, the positive impact the CVSOs have for veterans is beyond measurement in dollars. The benefits a veteran obtains may provide for life-changing education, low or no cost health benefits to keep health, employment and training services to prepare for and gain employment, and much more.

The direct impact to veterans is not the end of the benefit of the CVSOs work. There are innumerable numbers of veteran families who the CVSOs have assisted or impacted positively with their advocacy for veterans.

Finally, it is without question that the CVSOs have helped veterans survive the most extreme of hardships; their work has kept veterans from homelessness, malnourishment, illness and despair, and quite literally, saved veterans' lives.

This resolution recognizes the critical importance of the CVSOs. Furthermore, the resolution expresses the commendation of the entire Legislature for the contribution and positive impact the CVSOs have had on California veterans.

Analysis Prepared by: John Spangler / V.A. / (916) 319-3550 FN: 0001558