Mercer Times

Governor Phil Murphy announced the opening of the Union County Veterans Service Office, completing his initiative to establish a dedicated office in each of New Jersey's 21 counties. This move fulfills a promise made in the Fiscal Year 2024 budget to provide accessible services to veterans and their families statewide.

"New Jerseyans who have answered the call to serve deserve our utmost respect and support," stated Governor Murphy. He emphasized that this expansion ensures that veterans from all counties can access state and federal benefits more easily.

The opening ceremony was conducted by the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMAVA). "New Jersey is investing more, doing more, and achieving more in the area of state-delivered veterans benefits, programs, and services," said Maj. Gen. Lisa J. Hou, D.O., Commissioner of DMAVA.

The establishment of new offices in several counties was prioritized with an $825,000 investment in the Fiscal Year 2024 State Budget. Additional funding has been proposed for Fiscal Year 2025.

Senate President Nick Scutari highlighted the importance of these regional offices: "I am proud that the state is opening a Veterans Service office here in Union County giving our 13,000 veteran residents direct access to the state and federal benefits they have earned."

Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin added, "We owe our veterans a tremendous debt... This will provide local help in accessing federal assistance in health care and counseling as well as State programs for affordable housing."

With all counties now equipped with these offices, essential services like employment, education, counseling, housing, social services, and medical care are more accessible for veterans across New Jersey.

"The realization of this goal is a testament to the joint commitment by the Murphy Administration, DMAVA, and the Legislature," commented Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz.

Assemblywoman Eliana Pintor Marin expressed excitement about connecting veterans with community-based services: "It is important to connect these selfless individuals with services in their own communities."

State Commander Jeff Walding commended New Jersey's commitment: “This initiative mirrors efforts by Veterans of Foreign Wars... We expect that this office will be staffed on a consistent basis.”

To further enhance accessibility statewide, DMAVA has established a toll-free number for directing callers to their respective officers: 1-844-671-1019.