Vandenberg Space Force Base, Lompoc, California (Photo: U.S. Space Force Airman 1st Class Rocio Romo)

UPDATE: The original story incorrectly attributed AB 1638 to another assemblymember.

A bill moving through the California Legislature could bring additional Veteran assistance directly onto military bases across the state.

Assembly Bill 1638, introduced by Asm. Tri Ta (R-70), would provide funding for counties to permanently employ—either full- or part-time—County Veterans Service Officers, or CVSOs, on active bases if passed. This would ensure direct access for Service Members transitioning to civilian life.

(Editor’s note: If passed, AB 1638 provides funding to hire additional CVSOs to be placed on military bases. Existing CVSOs, such as those stationed at public buildings outside of military bases, would not be affected by this bill.)

Broadly, CVSOs help Veterans and their families access benefits through federal, state, and local programs. Their work often includes helping Veterans file disability claims with the VA, assisting with education and housing benefits, and connecting Veterans with health care or other support services.

AB 1638 supporters say placing these services directly on military bases could make it easier for Service Members and Veterans to learn about available benefits. Many begin preparing for civilian life months before leaving the military, and early access to benefits counseling can help them navigate paperwork and understand the programs they may qualify for after separation.

California already operates a statewide network of County Veterans Service Offices that provide free assistance to Veterans, but most operate on county property outside of military bases. For active-duty personnel and their families, traveling off base or scheduling appointments around duty hours can sometimes make accessing those services more difficult.

Lawmakers behind AB 1638 say locating a County Veterans Service Officer directly on base could reduce those barriers and provide a convenient resource for transitioning Service Members and Veterans connected to the installation.

The bill includes a condition tied to funding. The stipend program would take effect only if the California Legislature approves funding for it in the state budget. Counties would only receive the funding if they maintain a County Veterans Service Officer on the installation and the base agrees to the arrangement.

If AB 1638 is approved and funded in a future state budget, counties with military bases could begin placing CVSOs on bases to assist Service Members before and after they transition to civilian life.

California is home to more than 1.6 million Veterans, according to recent data from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Programs that connect Veterans with earned benefits remain a priority for many state and local agencies.

Author: Rikki Almanza

Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted family connection to the military, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.