SSB 3126

This bill replaces the Iowa department of veterans affairs’ (IDVA) duty to provide certification training to executive directors and administrators of county commissions of veteran affairs (CCVA) with the duty to verify each executive director and administrator of a CCVA is fully qualified to work in the person’s position. _____ access the veterans benefits management system (VBMS) within months of beginning the person’s employment; maintaining certification that is federally required for the executive director’s or administrator’s position; maintaining an active PIV card and access to VBMS; and having proficiency in the use of electronic mail, general computer use, and use of the internet to access information regarding facilities, benefits, and services available to veterans and their families. The bill requires a CCVA executive director or administrator to complete a course for the purpose of obtaining certification federally required for the person’s position and a PIV card necessary to access VBMS. If an executive director or administrator fails to obtain certification or a PIV card within one year of being employed, the executive director or administrator shall be removed from office unless the deadline is extended upon the CCVA’s request and the approval of the commandant of the IDVA. Under current law, the IDVA is required to provide the training and issue a certificate of completion. The bill also adds CCVA commissioners to those who may receive training under the county commission of veteran affairs training program. The bill requires an executive director or administrator to satisfy the continuing education requirements established by the United States department of veterans affairs and the requirements necessary to maintain an active PIV card and access to the VBMS. Failure of an executive director or administrator to maintain certification and access to VBMS shall be cause for removal from office.16 (CCVA fund).