The Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs convened on June 24, 2025, to discuss critical legislation aimed at enhancing benefits for veterans in Massachusetts. The meeting highlighted two significant bills: a proposed cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for veterans' benefits and measures to support military personnel killed in active duty.

The first major topic was the request for a COLA on veterans' benefits under Chapter 59, Section 5. Since February 2020, inflation in the Boston Metro Area has surged by 20.9%. Advocates argued that adjusting benefits to reflect this inflation is essential to maintain a viable standard of living for veterans.

The second key discussion centered on House Bill 3,864 and Senate Bill 24,79, which aim to extend benefits to military personnel who lose their lives while serving. Proponents emphasized that the current National Guard and Reserve forces are now frontline troops, unlike in previous decades, and deserve recognition and support similar to public safety officers.

Additionally, Ally Di Matteo, a legislative analyst with the Massachusetts Municipal Association, addressed House Bill 3,830 and Senate Bill 2,456, which focus on the administration of veterans' benefits. Currently, municipalities cover 100% of veterans' benefits costs upfront, later receiving about 75% reimbursement from the state. This system creates financial unpredictability for local budgets. The proposed legislation would streamline the reimbursement process, allowing local veteran service officers to manage benefits directly, thereby alleviating financial burdens on municipalities.

Di Matteo noted that maintaining the local connection through veteran service officers is crucial for providing quality services to veterans. The proposed changes aim to ensure that municipalities can focus on delivering these services without the stress of financial shortfalls.

The committee's discussions underscored the importance of supporting veterans and their families, as well as the need for legislative measures that adapt to the evolving landscape of military service. The next steps involve further consideration of these bills as they move through the legislative process.