Montgomery, AL – Governor Kay Ivey signed Senate Bill 67 into law on Tuesday, marking a significant shift in the structure of the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs (ADVA). Sponsored by Senator Andrew Jones and Representative Ed Oliver, the legislation has the stated aim to enhance support and services for veterans across the state.
With the signing of SB67, the governance structure of the ADVA now aligns more closely with other cabinet-level agencies, increasing accountability and efficiency per the Govornor’s office. One of the primary changes is the elevation of the ADVA commissioner to a cabinet-level position, allowing for direct appointment and supervision by the governor. This shift is expected to enable the department to better address veteran needs, including mental health services, employment opportunities, and educational benefits.
Governor Ivey emphasized the importance of prioritizing veterans, stating, “Alabama’s veterans deserve our very best, and I am grateful to the Alabama Legislature for its resounding support of this important legislation. We will use this new structure to focus on what matters most – serving those who sacrificed so much for our freedoms – our veterans and their families.”
Senator Jones highlighted the significance of the bill, noting, “Elevating the commissioner of the Department of Veterans Affairs to a cabinet-level position is certainly the right path forward for Alabama when it comes to better serving and supporting our veterans.” Representative Oliver echoed this sentiment, expressing his commitment to working with various stakeholders to enhance services for veterans.
Another key reform under SB67 is the restructuring of the State Board of Veterans Affairs (SBVA). Previously functioning as an oversight body, the SBVA will now serve in an advisory capacity, similar to other cabinet agencies’ advisory boards. Veteran service organizations (VSOs) have been given 60 days to submit new board nominees to the governor. If vacancies remain, the governor will have the authority to appoint veterans of her choosing.
Governor Ivey stated her intention to collaborate with VSOs during the transition. “I truly appreciate the collaborative relationship we have forged with VSOs to achieve final passage of this legislation. I look forward to working with all of the VSOs in the hopes of assembling a new State Board of Veterans Affairs that can effectively advocate for the wide range of needs of our state’s veterans and their families,” she said.
Following the signing of SB67, Governor Ivey announced the appointment of Brigadier General Jeffrey Newton as the new ADVA commissioner. Newton, who has been serving as interim commissioner, brings a wealth of experience from his 41-year military career. He previously held the position of director of the Joint Staff of the Alabama National Guard, overseeing joint military operations related to state and national emergencies. His military service includes deployments with the 117th Air Refueling Wing and contributions to Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and Noble Eagle.
Expressing gratitude for the appointment, Newton stated, “I am humbled and grateful to be appointed to the Governor’s Cabinet and join her team. I look forward to working with other departments and cabinet officials as we continue to provide first-class support for Alabama veterans and their families, as we have done for the past 80 years.”
Newton’s military accolades include the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the Alabama Distinguished Service Medal. He was inducted into the United States Air Force’s Enlisted Heritage Hall – Wall of Achievers in 2021. A graduate of Samford University and Auburn University, he is set to officially assume the role of commissioner on Wednesday, March 19, 2025.
