Board of Supervisors revises policy on hiring credits for military vets’ spouses

RIVERSIDE, Calif. (KESQ) - The Board of Supervisors today approved revisions to a Riverside County policy that permits spouses of military veterans to apply for credits toward job placement in county government, loosening up the process for applicants.

"There are so many different efforts going on when it comes to our veterans,'' Supervisor Manuel Perez said ahead of the 5-0 vote Tuesday. "There's a lot (more) to come our way."

The Department of Human Resources received the board's authorization to amend Board Policy C-3, also known as the "Veterans Preference Policy," under which qualifying retired, disabled or active-duty military personnel preparing to leave service receive credit that elevates their standing in consideration for county employment. The policy further provides credits for wives or widows of service members, though there are limitations.   

"We want to make sure it's easy for (applicants) to go through our preference process,'' agency spokeswoman Tami Schatz told the board. "If someone meets the qualifications, they'll get an interview."

Previously, the provision for spouses mandated that, as part of theapplication process, they submit corroborating documents, including marriage certificates, veterans' death certificates, service discharge forms, disability verification forms -- and at least one letter from the U.S. Veterans' Administration confirming the applicant's marital relationship to a veteran.   

"Human Resources confirmed that the VA does not issue eligibility letters to veteran spouses,'' according to a Department of Human Resources statement. ``As a result, the current policy's language may bemisleading and could unintentionally create barriers for qualified applicants."

With Tuesday's board action, the specification under C-3 that required the submission of letters was eliminated.   

Perez said he looked forward to further moves toward augmenting veterans' services countywide.

"Maybe a budget increase (is needed) to make sure we take care of our veterans,'' he said.