In this chapter: I. "Private employer" means a sole proprietor, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, or other entity with one or more employees. It does not include the state, a subdivision of the state, or a public institution of higher education. II. "Veteran" means a person who served on active duty in the armed forces and was discharged or released with discharge of a character outlined in RSA 21:50. III. "Veterans' preference employment policy" means a private employer's policy for hiring or promoting a veteran, an eligible service member, or a military spouse over another qualified applicant or employee. IV. "Eligible service member" means a service member on active duty. V. "Active duty" shall have the same meaning as RSA 21:50, III. VI. "Military spouse" shall have the same meaning as RSA 21:50, V.