CalVet enhances California's veteran services, securing $579M in federal benefits

On May 12, 2025, a joint hearing of the California State Senate and Assembly Military and Veterans Affairs committees highlighted the critical role of CalVet in supporting the state's veteran services. The meeting underscored the importance of the partnership between CalVet and the 55 county veteran service offices (CVSOs), which collectively serve over 1.4 million veterans—nearly 8% of the nation's total veteran population.

A key focus of the discussions was the impressive performance of California's CVSOs in securing benefits for veterans. In 2024, California filed 12% of all claims to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), significantly exceeding expectations by securing $579 million in new federal benefits. This achievement reflects the state's commitment to providing robust support for its veterans, with a notable emphasis on the ongoing economic impact of these benefits.

One assembly member provided a quantitative perspective on the long-term benefits, projecting that recurring payments for veterans could amount to over $1.2 billion in tax-free income by 2050 for a medium-sized county. This figure highlights the substantial economic contributions that veteran benefits can make, not only to individual veterans but also to local economies across California.

The meeting also addressed the rigorous training and accreditation processes that CVSOs undergo to ensure they provide knowledgeable and ethical support to veterans. Unlike for-profit entities, CVSOs are required to maintain their accreditation through ongoing education and training, ensuring that staff members are well-versed in the latest VA policies and procedures.

In conclusion, the joint hearing emphasized the effectiveness of California's veteran services model and the significant economic benefits derived from federal support. As the state continues to prioritize veteran affairs, the discussions raised important questions about the broader implications of these benefits and the need for further study on their impact on job creation and local economies. The commitment to maintaining high standards in veteran services remains a cornerstone of California's approach to supporting those who have served in the military.