Today the Senate subcommittee on Veterans heard legislation authored by Senator Jeff Howe (R-Rockville) that takes the much-needed and highly-requested step of expanding eligibility for veterans looking to be buried in state veterans cemeteries.

As amended, the bill adds new categories of individuals who may be buried in state veterans cemeteries, including reservists and national guard members who were honorably discharged after a full term of service, as well as the members’ spouses, surviving spouses, minor children, or unmarried adult children. Additionally, the bill also updates the honor guard statute to include reservists and national guard members, as well as veterans of the Secret War in Laos.

“When you put on the uniform to serve, you are taking the same oath and making the same commitment to serve your country, regardless of being active duty, Guard, or Reserve, and we should recognize the sacrifice of every single person who bravely stepped up,” said Howe. “This bill ensures that every service member who has worn the uniform and completed their initial enlistment is honored with the dignity they’ve earned, even in their final resting place. The bipartisan work that went into this bill sends a clear message of respect and thanks to all those who serve. This was a priority heading into my final legislative session, and I intend to see this bill through to the finish line.”

The bill had bipartisan support when heard in committee and was amended into another bill that passed through committee. The amended bill will now be heard in the Agriculture, Veterans, Broadband, and Rural Development Committee.