County veterans affairs officer reports on GDX distribution and local veteran spending

A county veterans affairs representative summarized the office—s work and statewide benefit distributions. The presenter explained GDX geographic distribution data that break down Indiana veterans— benefits at the county level and noted that Boone County—s expenditures last year were about $29 million while the county's investment this year was presented as roughly $33 million. He stressed that claims-processing work drives many of those direct payments and that the work requires ongoing expertise because federal and state rules change frequently. "You have to learn the trade just like anything," he said of claims work.

The presenter noted demographic differences by era (Gulf War veterans comprise the largest cohort in his account; World War II and Korean War veterans are dwindling) and suggested the council consider a local recognition for the remaining World War II veterans. He also referenced House Bill 433, which he said has led to online improvements and pending rule-making that could affect veteran service officers' licensing and duties.

The council expressed appreciation for the office's work and asked whether the county could help with veteran recognition events; the presenter agreed to consider options and bring ideas back.

Next steps: Council liaison/officers to coordinate with the veterans affairs office on possible recognition events and to consider data in next year's budget deliberations.