Guest outlines new state law requiring towns to form veterans graves committee

Richard Schaeffer, a guest invited to the meeting, summarized Public Act 26111 and urged Stafford to consider forming a local veterans graves committee under the new law.

"Chief executive authorities must annually appoint a committee of 3 veteran citizens who are tasked with ensuring that all wartime graves are suitably cared for and maintained," Schaeffer told the board, noting the act is effective July 1, 2026 and "Governor Lamont did sign it." He said the law covers veterans from conflicts dating back before the Revolutionary War and that training for committee appointees must be completed within two years.

Schaeffer said the law includes funding he believes will come from a portion of death-certificate fees but added he had "not investigated thoroughly" the precise mechanism for allocating that money. "Apparently, the state is giving the towns a cut from the death certificate fees," he said, and offered to help Stafford set up an application process and paperwork if the board decides to form the committee.

Board members asked whether creating a separate Stafford Veterans Graves Committee would conflict with existing advisory bodies, such as the Veterans Advisory Committee or private groups that have historically cared for cemeteries. Schaeffer acknowledged potential overlap, saying "that could happen," but left the decision to the board, noting the American Legion has performed much of that work in many towns for decades.

The board did not take formal action at the meeting; the chair said the item will be placed on a future agenda for formal consideration and to determine whether the appointment will be handled by an existing advisory body or a newly created committee.

What’s next: The board will review the language in the packet, determine committee placement, and schedule the item for a future meeting. Schaeffer provided contact information and offered further research into the funding details.