New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules Mavs - Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services
The New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules is a collection of detailed rules and regulations created by state agencies to implement state laws. These rules have the force of law and are used to govern how state agencies operate and how they administer various programs. One of the departments governed by these rules is the Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services (DMAVS).
Here is a detailed explanation of what the DMAVS does under the New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules:
Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services (DMAVS) – Overview
The DMAVS is a state-level agency in New Hampshire responsible for two major areas:
Military Affairs – Oversight and support of the New Hampshire National Guard.
Veterans Services – Providing benefits, services, and advocacy for veterans and their families.
The administrative rules provide the legal and procedural framework within which this department operates.
Functions Under the Administrative Rules
1. Support of the New Hampshire National Guard
The DMAVS oversees the New Hampshire Army and Air National Guard, which are the state’s military forces available to both the Governor and the President (depending on the type of activation). Rules in this area include:
Mobilization and Deployment Protocols – Outlining how service members are activated during state emergencies (natural disasters, civil unrest, etc.)
Facility Use and Management – Guidelines on how military facilities are maintained and used by the Guard.
Training Standards – Ensuring readiness and compliance with federal and state training requirements.
2. Veterans Services Division
This division focuses on advocating for and assisting New Hampshire veterans. Rules related to this division cover:
a. Veterans’ Benefits Administration
Rules outline eligibility and application procedures for state-level benefits, including:
Veterans tax credits
Educational assistance
Employment preference for veterans
Burial benefits and honors
Each benefit has administrative rules that define who qualifies, what documentation is needed, and how decisions are appealed if denied.
b. State Veterans Cemetery
There are specific rules governing:
Eligibility for burial (veterans, spouses, dependents)
Fee structure
Maintenance and operation of the cemetery
Burial protocols (e.g., military honors, flags, monuments)
c. Veterans Services Officers (VSOs)
These are trained staff who help veterans file claims for federal and state benefits. Administrative rules define:
Duties and training standards for VSOs
Confidentiality and ethical guidelines
Process for appeals and representation before federal VA bodies
3. State Veterans Council
This is an advisory body within DMAVS composed of appointed members who represent various veterans’ organizations. Their responsibilities, defined in the rules, include:
Advising the Commissioner on veterans’ issues
Reviewing benefit programs
Recommending legislative or rule changes
4. Rulemaking Authority and Process
The DMAVS, like other state agencies, must follow a formal rulemaking process set out in state law. The administrative rules detail:
How rules are proposed, revised, or repealed
Opportunities for public comment
Role of the Joint Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules (JLCAR) in reviewing proposals
Publication and codification of rules
Enforcement and Appeals
When the DMAVS makes decisions—such as denying benefits or services—veterans and other affected individuals have the right to:
Request reconsideration or hearings
Appeal to higher authorities or courts
Rules outline the timeline, format, and procedures for these processes to ensure fairness and transparency.
Summary
The New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules for the Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services provides the legal framework for how the department:
Supports the National Guard
Administers veterans' programs
Operates the state veterans cemetery
Guides Veterans Services Officers
Ensures fair benefit access and appeals
These rules ensure that all programs are consistent, legally compliant, and responsive to the needs of military personnel and veterans in New Hampshire.
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