(a) Prior to July 1, 2005, the Treasurer is directed to hold the fund known as the posthumous fund of Fitch’s Home for the Soldiers in trust, to credit the income from said fund to the Department of Veterans Affairs to be used for the welfare and entertainment of the residents or patients of the Veterans Residential Services facility or Healthcare Center, as those terms are defined in subsection (b) of § 27-103, or any other home established by the state for the care of veterans and to pay from the principal thereof any claim which may be lawfully established against the same.

(b) Effective July 1, 2005, the Treasurer shall consolidate the posthumous fund of Fitch’s Home for the Soldiers and the Fitch Fund. The name of the consolidated fund shall be the Fitch Fund. On and after July 1, 2005, the Treasurer shall hold the Fitch Fund in trust, to credit the income from said fund to the Department of Veterans Affairs to be used for the welfare and entertainment of the residents or patients of the Veterans Residential Services facility or Healthcare Center or any other home established by the state for the care of veterans and to pay from the principal thereof any claim that may be lawfully established against said fund.