(a) The Veterans Service Board is authorized to provide by rule and regulation for a reasonable fee for residency in and services provided by a facility of the Georgia State War Veterans' Home. The board is authorized to provide by rule and regulation for a full or partial waiver of such fees based on economic need. Such fee waiver shall be established on a sliding scale based on established criteria, including, without limitation, consideration of assets, income, and other resources.
(b) The Department of Veterans Service is authorized to receive, as full or partial payment of any fees charged by a facility of the Georgia State War Veterans' Home, the assignment of any state or federal benefit including, without limitation, aid and attendance benefits paid by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.