Section 27-102l(d)-304 - Advocacy(a) To the extent allowed by federal and state law, a Service Officer may advocate for veterans and their dependents in one or more of the following ways:(1) Address community, civic, and veteran organizations on the needs of the veteran population, and available benefits, services, activities, and programs to which veterans and their dependents may be entitled or eligible to receive.(2) Respond to requests from federal and state elected officials for input on legislation affecting or that may affect veterans' benefits.(3) Visit nursing homes to assess the treatment being given to veterans and their dependents and to ensure that they shall be receiving maximum benefits.(4) Investigate, in cooperation with appropriate authorities as may be appropriate, any complaints about the treatment of veterans, their spouses, dependents and family members receiving services under Chapter 506 of the Connecticut General Statutes.(5) Visit homeless shelters, soup kitchens, and local welfare agencies for the purpose of identifying veterans who may benefit from residential and non- residential services, activities, and programs.(6) Accompany an applicant or claimant to meetings and hearings necessary to process or appeal benefit claims or applications, including for residential programs for the Department.(7) Assemble evidence and documentation, including written analysis of eligibility determinations and explanations of the veteran's circumstances, as may be requested by or relevant to the party processing the application.(8) Prepare bulletins and public information materials for public education and outreach.(9) Obtain the appointment as a representative of a veteran under a Power of Attorney recognized by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for the purpose of perfecting veteran's claims for benefits before the Board of Veterans' Appeals, informal conference or formal hearing held by the Commissioner of the Department of Veterans' Affairs, or designee, and any other unit of the federal, state, or local government charged with the administration of veterans' benefits.(10) Other duties the Director may assign to improve the quality of life of veterans and their dependents.(b) Service Officers may decline to take any action set forth in subsection (a) of this section, if:(1) The veteran has previously requested the same action and failed to cooperate in resolution of the request, and(2) The Service Officer filed a petition under subsection (f) of Section 27-102l(d)-300 of the Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies.Conn. Agencies Regs. § 27-102l(d)-304
Effective January 19, 1996; Amended October 11, 2007